Terrence McKay Jr. of Northwest Indian College

Terrence McKay Jr. is an enrolled member of the Nooksack Indian Tribe and the Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation (First Nations Canada). A proud graduate of Nooksack Valley High School, Terrence went on to earn an Associate of Arts degree from Northwest Indian College (NWIC) in 2020. He is now working toward completing a bachelor’s degree in the CARE program at NWIC, with the goal of graduating in June 2026.

Alongside his academic journey, Terrence is honored to serve as the vice president of activities on the student executive board (SEB) at NWIC. In this role, he helps plan, develop, and oversee student activities funded by the Associated Students of Northwest Indian College. Terrence works closely with fellow SEB members to ensure events are inclusive, culturally relevant, and meaningful to the NWIC student community.

Terrence also serves on the activities and wellness committee, supporting initiatives that promote student wellness, engagement, and community-building on campus. Additionally, he is an active participant in the Nooksack Indian Tribe Education Committee, where he contributes to discussions that advance educational opportunities and resources for tribal members.

Earning an education is important to Terrence because he wants to help create meaningful change within tribal communities. “Throughout my educational journey, I’ve learned that there will always be ups and downs and some sleepless nights, but at the end of the day, I can proudly say that I, along with all Indigenous people, am helping break barriers every single day,” he says.