Marylou Bowles-Banks has been one of many quietly shaping the heart of Dubois through their dedication to young people. She made Wyoming her home more than five decades ago, raising her family and building a career rooted in education and service. She and her current husband, Steve, share a blended family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

After working in the school district for ten years, Marylou finished her degree at the University of Wyoming, and returned as the K–12 library media specialist, becoming a steady and encouraging presence for generations of students.

Her passion for youth extended far beyond the classroom. Marylou played a key role in the creation of Dubois Youth Activities, the grassroots effort that became the Boys & Girls Club of Dubois. As a founding leader and former board president, she helped establish a place, a plan, and a program to ensure local kids had opportunities out-of-school to learn, grow, and succeed.

She also helped launch Needs of Dubois, a nonprofit that continues to support Dubois and Crowheart residents in times of hardship, and has served on the school board, Wyoming Congressional Award Council, Wyoming State Library board and the Headwaters board, while remaining active in her church.

Reflecting on her life’s work, Marylou shares, “I want every child to know that he or she has unique gifts and possibilities. They need us to help them realize their hopes and dreams.”