Chuck Best credits North Idaho College with opening the door to a lifetime of learning and opportunity. Today, his deep connection to NIC comes full circle through a scholarship endowment supporting future generations of students.
For Charles “Chuck” Best, North Idaho College has always been part of his story.
Born and raised in Coeur d’Alene, with deep family roots in North Idaho, Chuck spent his childhood summers on Hayden Lake at a property his grandfather, Walter J. Burns Sr., purchased during the Great Depression. A successful miner and photographer, Burns was also a dedicated supporter of education, serving as a trustee of North Idaho Junior College, now known as North Idaho College. Today, Chuck and three of his four children live on the property enjoying this family treasure.
When it came time to consider college, North Idaho Junior College was the natural choice for Chuck. In fact, he credits NIJC with helping him continue his education at all. “I didn’t love school,” Chuck admits, “but I had the mind for it.” After graduating, he transferred to the University of Idaho, where he earned degrees in pre-law and psychology, thanks to the influence of a professor who believed in him.
During his time at NIJC, Chuck met Shirley, who became his wife and partner for 64 years. Unwaveringly supportive, Shirley encouraged him through every stage of his education and career.
Curious by nature, Chuck has always enjoyed trying new things. After college, he worked as a lumberjack, and then at the suggestion of a friend, took a chance on teaching fourth grade.
“I fell in love with those kids,” he recalls. “They absolutely captured me.”
That chance led to advanced degrees in education at Eastern Washington University and Washington State University. Over time, he became involved in curriculum and program development, rising to the role of assistant superintendent.
As opportunities took Chuck further from the classroom, his job satisfaction decreased. At Shirley’s suggestion, he changed direction. His curious nature resurfaced and he took on a new challenge in the pollen industry. In time, this venture proved successful and he still owns and serves as president of Antles Pollen Supplies and Pollen Control.
In 2018, Chuck and Shirley returned to Hayden Lake and the property that had shaped so many of his childhood memories. After Shirley’s passing, Chuck felt fortunate to reconnect with longtime friend Joanne Sutton (Smock) at their high school reunion. They married and enjoyed traveling and life together before Joanne’s passing in winter 2026.
Today, Chuck remains grateful for the educational opportunities that opened doors throughout his life. He is a proud supporter of the NIC Foundation and believes strongly in the transformative power of education.
When asked why he chose to create a scholarship endowment, his answer is simple:
“It seems appropriate to give back. I have a belief in it, and it feels good.”