Gail MacKinnon Maehl was born and raised in Helena, MT. She attended the University of Montana, graduating with a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing/Advertising. Gail moved to Seattle, WA following college and gained employment at the public relations firm, Gogerty & Stark. A few years later she switched vocational directions to pursue her interest in ophthalmology. She went onto receive her Ophthalmic Technician certification from Seattle Central Community College then found employment at NW Neuro Ophthalmic Associates and then Eye Associates, NW.
Gail and her husband, Carl, relocated back to Montana shortly after their first child was born to raise their family. They have two children, MacKenzie and Benjamin. During the last twenty years, Gail has worked extensively with children in teaching, coaching, and volunteer capacities within the school and the community.
In 2005, her only brother, Michael MacKinnon, was KIA in Iraq by a roadside bomb while serving in the army. He left behind a wife and two young children. Grateful Nation contacted the MacKinnon family and graciously extended the offer of mentorship and a full college scholarship to Michael’s two children, Madison and Noah MacKinnon. Madison currently is a senior at Miami (OH) studying Art & Art Therapy. Noah is a sophomore at the University of Montana studying English Literature. Both are on full scholarship.
Gail is both honored and thrilled to be a part of this wonderful organization that recognizes the ultimate sacrifices of our courageous Montana soldiers! The tremendous burden of secondary education costs are alleviated by the generous donors who make Grateful Nation great!
You can reach Gail with questions or suggestions by sending her an email.