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BONNERS FERRY - Donna Molvik has been hired as the new Executive Director for the International Selkirk Loop. She takes over from Stephanie Sims, who has been Executive Director since 2012. Formed in 1999, the International Selkirk Loop is North America’s only multinational scenic loop, a 280-mile scenic drive encircling the Selkirk Mountains of Washington, Idaho and British Columbia. It includes Priest River, Newport, Usk, Ione, Metaline and Metaline Falls. In B.C., the Loop takes in Salmo, Nelson, Balfur and Creston.
“The Selkirk Loop is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a journey through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities, and rich cultural history,” Molvik says. “I look forward to helping visitors experience everything this region has to offer while supporting the small businesses that are the heart of the Loop’s communities and economy. I’m excited to build on the organization’s success and expand its reach to new audiences across North America and around the world.”
Molvik started April 1. She says she’s excited to continue the work Sims has done. During her 13year tenure, Sims played a pivotal role in expanding awareness of the International Selkirk Loop.
Molvik, a longtime advocate for the International Selkirk Loop, has served as a volunteer board member for several years, playing a key role in its strate- gic planning and tourism initiatives. She has experience in marketing, public relations and community engagement.
The Selkirk Loop is a recognized non-profit in both Idaho and British Columbia, with the official U.S. address in Bonners Ferry.
“The nature of this role allows me the opportunity to work from anywhere to accomplish many of the functions and responsibilities, so I will be primarily based here in Newport with regular trips to Bonners Ferry and Creston, B.C., -- and of course visiting with the Loop’s members and tourism organizations around the entire Loop,” Molvik says.
Molvik has held leadership roles supporting tourism, nonprofit and community-based initiatives. Most recently she worked Principal Publicist for the Kalispel Tribe of Indians.
“While I will certainly miss my time with the Kalispel Tribe - they will always be a positive part of who I am - I am incredibly grateful for this new leadership role and am looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead,” she says.
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