In Loving Memory: Donald Eubanks

It is with great sadness that we share the sudden passing of our alumnus, the racial justice advocate, and honored elder: Donald (Don) Eubanks.

Don was a distinguished alumnus who provided leadership, council, and mentorship to everyone he encountered. His contributions spanned decades. Don will be remembered as an advocate for racial and social justice, a collaborator who shared his gifts with others, and a man who was always a wise counselor. 

Don recently retired from Metro State University where he was Associate Professor and Field Director of the School of Social Work. As a professor, he had much to share from his lifetime of working to improve the health and well-being of so many. He provided leadership on health and mental health across Minnesota. 

From 1998-2000 — and again, from 2009-2012 — Don was the Commissioner of Health and Human Services for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Indians. As Commissioner, he facilitated a partnership between Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe and the University of Minnesota School of Social Work to improve the lives of the community youth. 

Don served as the Director of Multicultural Affairs for the Chemical and Mental Health Services Administration, Minnesota Department of Human Services, from 2007-2009 and was Director of Chemical Health Division from 2000-2007. He shared his wisdom and knowledge generously. 

He was a co-author of formal academic publications, including a recent co-authored a chapter (2022) on human services with Dr. Katie Johnston-Goodstar, and Dr. Cary Waubanascum for the Tribal Administrative Handbook. He served on numerous taskforces and workgroups and in recent years continued to advocate and teach through his podcasts. 
 

Donald Eubanks will be greatly missed.
 

*Thank you, Dr. Ross VeLure Roholt for this obituary.