Guest

One of the neat things about the recreation side is we have an opportunity to reach people where they're at. And talk about what does it mean to be a steward of your own environment. Cuz if we could think about 20, 30, and 40 years from now, we will have a different society. We will have a different environment. My name is Donna Gaukler. I am the director of the City of Missoula Parks and Recreation department. I actually started in architecture, went from architecture to horticulture, and landed in parks and recreation again. I just found that it had such a blend of landscape and plants and people and built environment that it blended all of my passions into one place. We try to create spaces like we're in today where you can literally see and almost touch the outdoors. And I think if we could be smarter about design in architecture and engineering and landscape design, we would be so much better off. But it's who is the audience and what language is important to them, and who should tell the story so it's believable. It's about having peers tell stories to peers, and then back those stories with facts. And if we can each believe in ourselves that we have something to give others, I think we get back so much more in return. 

There are a lot of paths into the field of parks and recreation. Only the major cities require a master's degree. I only have my bachelor's degree with a minor in business administration, which is helpful as the application side of the field. One thing that has been really useful for me is ongoing continuing education through the National Recreation and Park Association. Otherwise, hands-on experience is the most beneficial tool for this field.

I lost my dad when I was 19 and wasn't sure I was going to be able to finish college because of a lack of resources. I shared my concerns with my professor and he was able to get me a job on campus so that I could continue.

As a gay woman, I've been asked to leave my work in parks and recreation because I'd be a bad influence on young people. It was discouraging but I learned to trust in humanity. As long as you believe in yourself, you'll make it through.

My day-to-day work varies based on the time of year and the social or environmental issues at hand. I'm here to see what people and place need to provide better opportunity. A typical day for me could include six to eight hours of meetings, site visits, and special events. I spend a lot of time with people, whether in person or through phone calls about various parks and recreation issues.

Director

You need to step away from your work because you're going to be a bad influence as a gay person.

Donna Gaukler

About Donna

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