Archive for the ‘Staff Spotlight’ Category

Posted on April 22, 2009 - by Blackhawk Staff Writer

Jil Wickander - Staff Spotlight

Director of Outdoor Pursuits and Environmental Stewardship

During her first year at Blackhawk, Jil has put her lifetime of equine and education experience to work. An avid horsewoman, her passion for the care of animals and their environment is infectious. Jil was raised around horses and outdoor pursuits in Wisconsin.

In the past, Jil has lived in an Amish community where she learned how to work with horses in harness, has worked as a manager for a hunter-jumper stable as well as for a carriage company in Northern California.

In addition, Jil has been a trainer and clinician for horses in the field and in the show ring. Along with her vast equestrian knowledge, Jil also has a passion for education. She established a grade school education program to teach children about how draft horses were used in early state history.

Jil also has a keen interest in local plant and wildlife and is currently an apprentice to a well-known herbalist in Valley County.

As Director of Outdoor Pursuits and Environmental Stewardship, Jil has developed the Summer and Winter Event Series at Blackhawk, crafting each event around the unique wildlife, plant life and outdoor activities in McCall, Idaho.