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“June” Elder of The Month – Joanne Red Old Man

Joanne Red Old Man – Celebrating a Remarkable Career at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park

Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park takes immense pride in honoring Joanne Red Old Man, our longest-serving employee, as she embarks on a well-deserved retirement. Joanne’s unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and passion for preserving Blackfoot culture have made her an invaluable asset to our organization throughout her tenure. Let us take a moment to reflect on her journey and the significant contributions she has made to our park and community.

Joanne’s journey with us began in the gift shop, where her warm and welcoming demeanor immediately captivated visitors. Sharing the Blackfoot culture and history served as an inspiration for those who crossed her path. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds created a wonderful experience for all who entered Blackfoot Crossing.

Joanne’s versatility and commitment to preserving Blackfoot traditions led her to explore various roles within the park, such as Tipi Booking Coordinator. Joanne effortlessly managed the logistics of tipi bookings, ensuring visitors experienced the rich heritage of the Blackfoot people through their stay in authentic accommodations. Her expertise in sewing traditional regalia and crafts allowed her to contribute to the vibrant and authentic displays throughout the park, immersing visitors in the beauty and intricacy of Blackfoot craftsmanship.

Joanne also served as our Central Bookings Coordinator. With her exemplary organizational abilities and attention to detail, she ensured a seamless experience for visitors, managing reservations, coordinating events, and overseeing the park’s day-to-day operations. Her tireless efforts behind the scenes have played a pivotal role in providing unforgettable experiences to countless guests.

Beyond her administrative contributions, Joanne’s passion for preserving the Blackfoot language shines through her role as a language teacher. Recognizing the importance of revitalizing and passing down this invaluable aspect of the Blackfoot culture, Joanne dedicated herself to teaching the language to park staff and visitors alike. Her patience, enthusiasm, and expertise have inspired a new generation of language learners, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Blackfoot heritage.

While Joanne is embarking on a well-deserved retirement, her unwavering commitment to Blackfoot culture continues. We are thrilled to announce that Joanne will be returning to Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park periodically to provide new language webinars. This initiative will ensure the preservation and accessibility of the Blackfoot language, reaching a wider audience and creating opportunities for learning and cultural exchange.

Joanne Red Old Man’s remarkable career at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park has left an indelible legacy. Her dedication, skills, and unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing Blackfoot culture have enriched the lives of countless individuals. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her exceptional service and wish her a fulfilling and joyful retirement. Joanne’s impact will be felt for generations to come, and her contributions will forever be cherished at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park.