Newsroom

Stay informed on everything happening at College of Western Idaho — from inspiring student success stories and campus events to community activities and the latest campus developments.

Student Success

Gracie Young holding a weighted ball

Gracie Young is preparing to begin her healthcare career after gaining real-world experience through the Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

Read more about Young Finds Her Calling to Help Others
Picture of LeAndra Onya in front of green background

CWI student LeAndra Onys connects classroom learning to real-world experience through technical training and exploring global cybersecurity issues.

Read more about Connecting Cybersecurity to Real-World Impact
Bronwyn Hitchcock sitting on stool in art classroom

Bronwyn Hitchcock credits CWI’s Studio Art program with helping her build confidence, explore new mediums, and pursue a future in art.

Read more about The Art of Finding a Direction
Class stands in front of a pop up tent

The field trip gave students a chance to apply biological anthropology skills outside the classroom while gaining a closer look at primate behavior, anatomy, and social structure.

Read more about Anthropology Students Study Primate Behavior in the Field
Two people with certificates

Two Psychology students earned top honors at a statewide psychology conference, standing out among undergraduate researchers from both two- and four-year institutions.

Read more about Psychology Students Recognized for AI Research at State Psychology Conference
Student presenting poster to judge

CWI students shined at the 11th Annual Connections Conference, showcasing their hard work and the strength of the College community.

Read more about 11th Annual Connections Conference Puts Student Work Front and Center
Austin Davis standing in Physical Therapy Assistant lab

Physical Therapist Assistant student Austin Davis is turning personal challenges into a career helping others heal.

Read more about From Patient to Provider
picture of Feliciti Huarancca Mesicano

From Adult Education to Apprenticeship at Micron, Feliciti Huarancca Mesicano found her path at CWI and launched a career in semiconductors.

Read more about Following Curiosity, Finding Opportunity
Lorivern Saycon stands in front of a desktop and cables

Lorivern Saycon found confidence, community, and her voice at CWI, leading to a gold medal in SkillsUSA.

Read more about Saycon Finds Her Voice
Jay Berry stand in the middle of a computer lab

After returning to school at CWI, Jay Berry found his calling in computer science and a path toward his future.

Read more about Berry Develops Future in Computer Science
Five people stand on grass while looking at a screen

Geoscience program is bringing science and history together through a hands-on collaboration aimed at preserving a piece of local heritage in Nampa.

Read more about Geoscience Program Helping Restore Historic Nampa Cemetery

Campus Life

People roaming around the Greenhouse

Proceeds from the sale directly support student learning in the Horticulture Technology program, helping fund courses, future plant sales, and student celebrations.

Read more about Annual Plant Sale Raises 17K for Students
Person looking through library books

The Library helps students build those skills while providing access to research tools, study spaces, technology, and personalized support throughout their academic journey.

Read more about Learning Commons: Library
Winners with a giant check

Students, employees, and community members pitched business ideas, side hustles, and early-stage ventures through to win prize funding and audience support.

Read more about Spring 2026 OtterTank Showcases and Celebrates Entrepreneurs
Barrel marked with Boise Rescue Mission signs

Student Nurses Association is partnering with Boise Rescue Mission Ministries to collect hygiene products for local community members in need.

Read more about Spring Into the Spirit of Giving Back
Two people holding plates of pancakes

The CWI Learning Commons team is hosting a series of events designed to help students prepare, relax, and find motivation as they head into the final stretch of the semester.

Read more about Spring 2026 Crunch Week
People sitting on a bench at the Student Arboretum

A year later after its open, the Student Arboretum has become an outdoor classroom, sustainability project, and growing community resource.

Read more about Student Arboretum Grows into Hands-On Learning Space
Two people working on an assignment

The Writing and AI Literacy Center is available to help students strengthen their writing, develop confidence, and learn how to use emerging AI tools responsibly.

Read more about Learning Commons: Writing and AI Literacy Center
PTK Cohort at Induction ceremony

CWI's Phi Theta Kappa chapter, Beta Sigma Pi Honor Society, inducted 24 new members, bringing another group of student leaders into the College’s honor society community.

Read more about PTK Welcomes 24 New Inductees
Declaration of Independence

CWI will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a public panel discussion featuring History faculty.

Read more about 250th Declaration of Independence Panel
Connections Conference 2026 Logo (square)

College of Western Idaho will host its 11th annual Connections Conference on April 23, inviting students, faculty, staff, and community members to celebrate student achievement. 

Read more about Connections Conference 2026
Tutor working with students in front of a whiteboard

At CWI, Tutoring Services is available to help students stay on track, strengthen their understanding of course material, and build the skills needed to succeed in college and beyond.

Read more about Learning Commons: Tutoring Services
Grad Fest 2026 logo

Gather your friends, family, and classmates, and plan to join us for a good time and good food as we kick off the countdown to graduation with Grad Fest on Friday, May 8.

Read more about 2026 Grad Fest – Let’s Celebrate Our Grads!

Announcements

Person holding their diploma

Congratulations Class of 2026! We are excited to celebrate your success during commencement on Tuesday, May 19, at Ford Idaho Center in Nampa.

Read more about 2026 Commencement Preview
Hacked computer

Members of the CWI community are encouraged to remain on alert for phishing attempts and other cyber suspicious activity.

Read more about Beware of Cyber Attackers and Phishing Scammers
Beam raised, confetti surrounds

CWI marked a new milestone in its Boise expansion with a topping off ceremony for the Boise Micron Academic Center, celebrating the placement of the building’s final structural beam.

Read more about CWI Raises Final Beam at Boise Micron Academic Center
Tech Quest logo

Middle and high school students can explore technology this summer through Tech Quest Summer Camp, a hands-on experience designed to help students build, experiment, solve problems, and...

Read more about Build, Break, Defend, Create, and Explore at Tech Quest Summer Camp
People and mascot stand on ice

Discounted CWI group tickets are now available for the next two playoff games as the Idaho Steelheads take on the Allen Americans at Idaho Central Arena.

Read more about Cheer on Steelheads at the Playoffs
Instructor and student work on HVAC unit in lab

Join us to explore in-demand careers and training available through Workforce Development's Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Apprenticeship programs.

Read more about Spring 2026 Apprenticeships Open House
Plants in the greenhouse

Freshen up your yard and garden this spring at the Annual Plant Sale hosted by students in the Horticulture Technology program at CWI.

Read more about Annual CWI Horticulture Plant Sale Returns May 6
Student at a desk with several other student behind him

Get ready for an exciting Fall 2026 semester at CWI! Whether you’re continuing your education, starting a new path, earning a degree or certificate, preparing to transfer, or learning just...

Read more about Register for Fall 2026
JED Campus Alumni - Class of 2026 | Green gradient background

CWI continues its partnership with the Jed Foundation as a JED Campus Alumni school, strengthening programs that support student emotional health and suicide prevention.

Read more about CWI Strengthens Commitment to Student Mental Health as JED Campus Alumni
Judge speaking with Jared Lopez in front of presentation

CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab will host the next OtterTank April 22, presented by First Federal Bank, inviting the community to pitch ideas and support local entrepreneurs

Read more about Entrepreneur Lab Invites Community to Spring 2026 OtterTank, Presented by First Federal Bank
Group of people sitting and talking in the Entrepreneur Lab

CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab helps students and community members explore, learn, and grow their ideas through workshops, cohorts, and more.

Read more about Explore, Learn, and Grow at the CWI Entrepreneur Lab in Spring 2026

Community

Start Here Conference graphic

Start Here Conference is designed to inspire entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders across the Treasure Valley.

Read more about Take the Next Step at Start Here Conference
Adults and children dig hole

Students and faculty joined young volunteers at Liberty Park on April 24 to plant trees as part of the City of Nampa’s Arbor Day celebration.

Read more about Horticulture Technology Partners with Nampa for Arbor Day Tree Planting
Five people stand in front of an American Flag

Governor Brad Little has declared April 26 – May 2 as Apprenticeship Week in Idaho, recognizing the important role registered apprenticeships play in building Idaho’s workforce and...

Read more about CWI Celebrates Apprenticeship Week
Person in indigenous attire with colorful feathered headdress

CWI will host a Social PowWow on Friday, April 24, at the Nampa Campus Quad, featuring Native dancers, singers, a drum circle, and traditional foods. Free and open to all.

Read more about CWI to Host Social PowWow Celebrating Native American Culture
Students on the side of road picking up trash

Students in Law Enforcement program bundled up and headed out for their 10th annual Adopt-A-Highway community service project on Feb. 10.

Read more about Law Enforcement Students Lead Highway Cleanup
Person stands behind Storyfort podium

CWI shines at Treefort 2026 with student readings, faculty-led art, and hands-on tech demos, showcasing the College community’s creativity, innovation, and public engagement.

Read more about CWI Faculty & Students Take Center Stage at Treefort 2026
Jared Lopez leans on a wall

Jared Lopez won the $1,000 OtterTank grand prize for The Idaho Underground, supporting at risk youth and strengthening local student programs through mentorship and enrichment.

Read more about Lopez’s OtterTank Win Strengthens Programs Serving Idaho Youth
Group picture in front of a sign that states "the Idaho Department of Commerce and Higher Education Delegation" | Green backdrop

CWI joined a Taiwan delegation to strengthen Idaho’s semiconductor workforce and spotlighted programs preparing students for high demand technical careers.

Read more about CWI Delegation Strengthens Idaho’s Semiconductor Workforce Training
Dzevad Vrabac

Through the Big Read initiative, CWI English Instructor, Dzevad Vrabac, will host a special Poetry Workshop on Feb. 12.

Read more about CWI Faculty to Host Big Read Poetry Workshop
Person welding in a lab with a helmet on

CWI hosted dozens of high school and college students for a Regional SkillsUSA diesel competition, giving participants the opportunity to test technical skills, connect with industry...

Read more about Students Showcase Talent at CWI Regional SkillsUSA Diesel Competition
Group of 11 people stand and kneel in front of sign that says Family Advocates | Green back drop behind image

Through a service-learning partnership, CWI students donated 460 hours to Family Advocates, supporting children, families, and community-based programs.

Read more about CWI Students Strengthen Families Through Service-Learning Partnership
Two students with bags standing outside building

Since its official launch, OtterBound has already enrolled more than 200 students, with an additional 10 to 15 students reaching out each week to express interest in the program.

Read more about OtterBound Gives Students a Head Start

Giving & Scholarships

Group of people with bear mascot holding two checks

CWI wrapped up another successful season of CWI Nights with the Idaho Steelheads, supporting local hockey and student success!

Read more about CWI Nights Raises Thousands for Student Scholarships
Erin Aboud stands next to CWI banner

The luncheon gave donors an opportunity to meet the students whose education they help make possible. Students, in turn, were able to personally thank those who have invested in their...

Read more about Impactful Connections Luncheon Highlights the Power of Scholarships
CWI Giving Day attendees with signs expressing thanks

Community members and supporters rallied during the fourth annual CWI Giving Day to raise $43,870 to strengthen student success.

Read more about CWI Giving Day Raises Nearly 44K to Support Students
CWI Giving Day | Jessica Smith

The College's fourth annual Giving Day on April 7 unites the community to support scholarships and programs that empower over 34,000 students.

Read more about Fourth Annual Giving Day Returns April 7 to Support Student Success
Group of people stand in Machine Tool lab

Nagel Foundation awarded $234,500 in scholarships, helping CWI students in high-demand technical programs pursue careers and build brighter futures.

Read more about Nagel Foundation Continues Transformational Support for CWI Students
Portrait of Erin Aboud

CWI scholarships helped Erin Aboud stay in school while balancing motherhood and rebuilding her life, turning her education into a path to help others.

Read more about In the Spotlight: Aboud’s Second Chance
Group of people on ice holding a check

Another exciting CWI Night spotlights Fire Service and Law Enforcement programs while a student scores a $1,000 scholarship.

Read more about Steelheads Celebrate Students at CWI Night
Student holding a large check in front of crowd

CWI Night spotlights programs, students, and community as Steelheads claim a 3-2 overtime win.

Read more about Big Win and Big Impact at CWI Night
Person holding a large check stands in front of group people

CWI fans packed Idaho Central Arena for CWI Night as the Steelheads won 4–3, celebrating school spirit, scholarships, and community support for student success.

Read more about CWI Nights Celebrates Students at Idaho Steelheads
Man in cowboy hat in field with building behind him

A CWI scholarship helped Stuart Tice find his path in agriculture and return to support hands-on learning for future students.

Read more about The Lasting Impact of a Scholarship
Three students at a table, studying

Each year, the Foundation awards hundreds of scholarships to support students enrolled in both academic and career technical programs.

Read more about Scholarships Open for 2026-2027 Academic Year
Your gift can change a student's life

Invest in CWI students’ success and unlock a $100 match when you begin a new recurring gift before Dec. 31.

Read more about Your Gift Can Change a Student’s Life

Alumni

Student stands in front of billboard and next to shelving

Drafting Technology graduate, Audrey Cabrera, turned her passion for design into a successful drafting career and now inspires the next generation as a CWI instructor.

Read more about Cabrera Builds Future Through CWI
Cody Phelps stands in front of backdrop and near stair railing

Cody Phelps’ journey comes full circle as he returns to teach at CWI, the same place that helped launch his education and career.

Read more about From Student to Faculty, Phelps Finds His Calling at CWI
A photographer stands in a field.

Landen Kelly discovered his passion for photography while studying at College of Western Idaho. Inspired by CWI’s faculty and now featured in international publications, Kelly’s journey...

Read more about From CWI to Papua New Guinea: Landen Kelly’s Lens on the World
A student wearing nursing scrubs poses for a portrait in front of a brick building.

In her own words, College of Western Idaho graduate Alejandra Whynman recounts how, after arriving in the U.S. alone at age 15 with only a fifth-grade education, she overcame incredible...

Read more about From a Childhood Calling to a Career in Nursing
An automotive painting instructor poses for a portrait in a painting lab.

Jessica Crowly, CWI graduate and executive at one of the largest paint companies in the world, shares her story of success.

Read more about Painted for Success: From CWI Student to Industry Leader
A portrait of a student machinist.

Reagan Heffelfinger’s journey to becoming a machinist at College of Western Idaho was shaped by resilience, overcoming health challenges and career detours to discover her passion for...

Read more about Shaping Metal, Defying Odds: A CWI Graduate’s Path to Success
Annika Kempnich, Maranda Barnhart

College of Western Idaho Business alumni, Annika Kempnich and Maranda Barnhart, were recently awarded top honors from Boise State University’s College of Business and Economics.

Read more about CWI Business Alums Earn Top Honors
Craig Petersen

Speak Up Ink Up is a community event that raises money for CASA and provides a voice for children in the foster system.

Read more about CWI Alumnus Continues to Foster Change Around Community
Chris Sinsel

College of Western Idaho Drafting Technology program graduate, Chris Sinsel, is making a name for himself in the landscaping technology world.

Read more about Accomplishing a Lifelong Dream Thanks to CWI
2022 College of Western Idaho graduate, Craig Petersen

Speak Up! Ink Up!, a charity event hosted by 2022 College of Western Idaho graduate, Craig Petersen, raises nearly $11,500 for Idaho foster children.

Read more about Fostering Change
Andy Sifford is in the CWI Plumbing Apprenticeship Program preparing for the Journeyman’s test

Meet Andy Sifford, a student in his third year of College of Western Idaho’s Plumbing Apprenticeship Program.

Read more about Life-Changing Career Choice

Faculty & Staff

Ryan Hanson standing on a staircase

Congratulations to Bachelor of Applied Science - Business Administration Program Coordinator and Associate Professor, Ryan Hanson, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for May 2026.

Read more about Hanson Named May 2026 Faculty of Distinction
Michal Yadlin standing outside in a garden space

Congratulations to Assistant Professor of Humanities and Honors Program Coordinator, Michal Yadlin, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for April 2026.

Read more about Yadlin Named April 2026 Faculty of Distinction
Therese Woozley

Congratulations to Communication Adjunct Faculty, Thérése Woozley, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for March 2026.

Read more about Woozley Named March 2026 Faculty of Distinction
picture of Yanet Nuñez with award

Congratulations to CWI Counselor, Yanet Nuñez, who has been named the 2026 Supervisor of the Year by the Idaho Counseling Association.

Read more about Nuñez Named 2026 Idaho Counseling Association Supervisor of the Year
Joe Welker

Congratulations to Associate Professor of Accounting, Joe Welker, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for February 2026.

Read more about Welker Named February 2026 Faculty of Distinction
Colleen Conklin working with medical tools

Congratulations to Assistant Professor of Health Professions, Colleen Conklin, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for January 2026.

Read more about Conklin Named January 2026 Faculty of Distinction
Group of people standing together | Green gradient backdrop

Professional Development Day at CWI spotlighted innovative teaching, honored outstanding faculty, and celebrated projects that put students at the center of learning.

Read more about Professional Development Day Celebrates Faculty Innovation and Teaching Excellence
Holly Bazarski stands in front of world map

Adult Education Teacher Holly Bazarski was selected as Idaho’s 2026 State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow, strengthening advocacy for adult learners statewide.

Read more about Bazarski Selected for National Adult Education Fellowship
Portrait of Lindsay Wallgren

Congratulations to Associate Professor of Business, Lindsey Wallgren, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for December 2025.

Read more about Wallgren Named December 2025 Faculty of Distinction
Person standing next to a computer

Congratulations to Math Solutions Center Teaching Faculty, Chelse Bulthuis, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for November 2025.

Read more about Bulthuis Named November 2025 Faculty of Distinction
Elise Connor with a pipette at a lab counter

Congratulations to Associate Professor of Biology, Elise Connor, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for October 2025.

Read more about Connor Named October 2025 Faculty of Distinction

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