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.

Featured

Lopez’s OtterTank Win Strengthens Programs Serving Idaho Youth

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.

Taking a Chance Pays Off: Taylor Wins 2026 Connections Conference Logo Contest

Congratulations to Studio Art student, Ayla Taylor, winner of the 2026 Connections Conference Logo Contest!

Six students stand in front of a curtain

Speech and Debate Opens Spring with Strong Finish at Dugaw Smelt Classic

CWI Speech and Debate team earns six individual awards and three team honors at the Dugaw Smelt Classic. The team also secures a season-long Silver Award in the NFC.

Group picture in front of a sign that states "the Idaho Department of Commerce and Higher Education Delegation" | Green backdrop

CWI Delegation Strengthens Idaho’s Semiconductor Workforce Training

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

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Student Success

News By Category

Taking a Chance Pays Off: Taylor Wins 2026 Connections Conference Logo Contest

Congratulations to Studio Art student, Ayla Taylor, winner of the 2026 Connections Conference Logo Contest!

Student Success

Speech and Debate Opens Spring with Strong Finish at Dugaw Smelt Classic

CWI Speech and Debate team earns six individual awards and three team honors at the Dugaw Smelt Classic. The team also secures a season-long Silver Award in the NFC.

Student Success

Curiosity Powers a Career

Through CWI’s Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program, Cesar Rodriguez pairs classroom precision with real-world industry experience.

Student Success

Alexus Hill reads a book in the middle of a classroom

Turning Passion into Purpose

Alexus Hill turns caring for kids into a career, advocating for children and supporting families through Early Childhood Education.

Student Success

Person sitting on a stool, next to desk and welding tools

Crafting Confidence Through Welding

Frank Ramirez combines skill, creativity, and confidence at CWI, turning welding into a path to personal and professional growth.

Student Success

Student stands in greenhouse in front of several plants

Growing a Future in Horticulture

Amalie Bolinder turned a passion for plants into a path at CWI, gaining hands-on experience, leadership roles, and industry recognition.

Student Success

Amy Miller stands in front of a library bookcase

Returning to School, Rediscovering a Passion

Amy Miller returned to college after two decades, turning her passion for art into a path for teaching and helping kids.

Student Success

Coast Guard Veteran Charts New Course at CWI

After retiring from the Coast Guard, Ryan Agre found renewed purpose at CWI, earning a management degree and launching a new career through support and community.

Student Success

Fall 2025 Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony

CWI honored 15 Practical Nursing graduates during a traditional pinning ceremony Thursday, Dec. 11, at Saint Alphonsus’ McCleary Auditorium in Boise.

Student Success

Graduates raising their hand and taking an oath

Fall 2025 Fire Service Technology Graduation Ceremony

Graduates from CWI Fire Service Technology Class 7 walked across the Nampa Civic Center stage on Dec. 10, taking the Firefighter Code of Ethics oath to mark the completion of their...

Student Success

Student stands in front of machine tool technology equipment

Bach Finds His Fit at CWI

Robert Bach transformed his life at CWI, finding purpose in machining and welding and continuing on in his studies to shape a career he once struggled to imagine.

Student Success

Six students stand on the steps in front of a building with awards

CWI Speech & Debate Shines at Mahaffey Memorial Tournament

CWI Speech & Debate earns 10 awards and 2nd place in Division III at the 95th Mahaffey Memorial Tournament.

Student Success

Campus Life

News By Category

Raptor Day Highlights Birds of Prey on Campus

Raptor Day at CWI gave students hands-on experience building kestrel nest boxes and learning about the valley’s amazing birds of prey.

Campus Life

Library Bookmobile to Visit Ada County Center

Ada Community Library Bookmobile will visit CWI on Feb. 24, offering library cards, book checkout, and free resources for students and the community.

Campus Life

Ten individuals pose together, smiling in front of a CWI step-and-repeat backdrop at a campus event.

Recognizing Excellence: 2026 Student Leadership Award Nominations Open

Nominate a student, organization, or advisor for the 2026 CWI Student Leadership Awards.

Campus Life

Image of the Tempest Promotional flyer in front of a green backdrop

Visiting Artist Series Welcomes 2026 Idaho Shakespeare Festival

Join the College's Visiting Artist Series in welcoming Idaho Shakespeare Festival back to campus on Tuesday, Feb. 17, for a performance of The Tempest and an acting workshop.

Campus Life

Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Jill Storey

Join CWI's Visiting Artist Series in welcoming artist Jill Storey to campus on Feb. 26 – 27.

Campus Life

Spring 2026 Club Fest

Club Fest is the gateway to discovering active Student Clubs, learning about upcoming initiatives, and finding out how to join groups that align with your interests.

Campus Life

Mindfulness Mondays Returns This Spring Offering Free Yoga on Campus

Mindfulness Mondays with 2C Yoga are open to all College of Western Idaho students on most Mondays at noon at the Nampa Campus Academic Building.

Campus Life

CWI Partners With WICAP to Support Heating Assistance

CWI has joined forces with Western Idaho Community Action Partnership to offer heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This program provides vital...

Campus Life

Spring 2026 Job & Career Fair

Meet with employers from across the Treasure Valley who are ready to put your skills to work! Whether you are seeking part-time work, a full-time position, or career advice, this event is...

Campus Life

Spring 2026 Student Resource Fair

Explore campus and community resources, enjoy fun prizes, and grab some tasty food at the 2026 Student Resource Fair!

Campus Life

CWI Hosts Week of Welcome for Spring 2026

Week of Welcome is a campuswide initiative designed to support students during their first week of classes and help them start the semester with confidence.

Campus Life

Ready, Set, Thrive!

Get ready for Spring 2026 at CWI! Join us for Ready, Set, Thrive! on Jan. 16 to find classrooms, get organized, and start strong across CWI campuses.

Campus Life

Announcements

News By Category

Judge speaking with Jared Lopez in front of presentation

Entrepreneur Lab Invites Community to Spring 2026 OtterTank, Presented by First Federal Bank

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

Announcements

Group of people sitting and talking in the Entrepreneur Lab

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

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

Announcements

Two people looking at the art gallery wall

2026 Juried Art Exhibition

CWI’s Juried Art Exhibition is open to current students through March 20. Submit any medium for a chance to win a $300 cash prize during the Connections Conference.

Announcements

Person in the wild looking through binoculars

Pathways Internships Offer Hands On Wildlife Experience

CWI Biology Natural Resources majors can apply for Pathways Internships with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, gaining hands on experience in wildlife conservation and research across...

Announcements

Three people with diplomas and in cap and gowns

Important Update: 2026 Commencement Date & Venue

CWI's 2026 Commencement Ceremony will be held at the Ford Idaho Center on Tuesday, May 19.

Announcements

Group of people standing on staircase, with two people holding a proclamation

CWI Celebrates Career and Technical Education Month

February is Career & Technical Education Month in Idaho! CWI celebrates hands-on learning, workforce partnerships, and student success across its 45 CTE programs.

Announcements

Two people holding an award on stage with black curtain in background

CWI Selected as 2025 NWCCU Beacon Award Recipient

NWCCU honored CWI with the 2025 Beacon Award for its innovative math redesign that improved readiness, equity, and gateway course completion.

Announcements

College of Western Idaho building with snow on the ground

2025-2026 Winter Break Hours

CWI locations and services will operate under special hours for the holidays and winter break.

Announcements

College of Western Idaho Campus Development

Campus Development Update – Fall 2025

From Nampa to Boise, CWI’s campus development is moving forward. See what’s new now and what’s opening next.

Announcements

Snow at the Nampa Campus Academic Building

Icy Conditions Safety Tips and Information

With winter weather upon us, CWI crews are working to keep campus locations safe and clear of ice and snow.

Announcements

Handshake Career Spark Awards 2025 | Powering the Future of Work

Work-Based Learning Center Honored with 2025 Handshake Spark Award

Work-Based Learning Center earned the 2025 Handshake Spark Award for connecting students with real-world experience and career opportunities.

Announcements

Three smiling students sit together in a classroom.

Spring into Success – Register for Spring 2026

Get ready for Spring 2026 at CWI! Registration is now open for all students – continuing, new or returning!

Announcements

Community

News By Category

Lopez’s OtterTank Win Strengthens Programs Serving Idaho Youth

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.

Community

CWI Delegation Strengthens Idaho’s Semiconductor Workforce Training

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

Community

CWI Faculty to Host Big Read Poetry Workshop

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

Community

Person welding in a lab with a helmet on

Students Showcase Talent at CWI Regional SkillsUSA Diesel Competition

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...

Community

Group of 11 people stand and kneel in front of sign that says Family Advocates | Green back drop behind image

CWI Students Strengthen Families Through Service-Learning Partnership

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

Community

Two students with bags standing outside building

OtterBound Gives Students a Head Start

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.

Community

Group of people stand in store near Santa Claus

CWI Law Enforcement Students Support Shop with a Sheriff Program

CWI Law Enforcement students volunteered with Shop with a Sheriff, wrapping gifts for 114 children and helping create joy and community connections during the holiday season.

Community

Adult Education Helps Canyon County Students Build Brighter Futures

The College's Adult Education partnership with Canyon County Juvenile Probation helps at-risk youth earn GEDs, build confidence, and create stronger futures.

Community

CWI Joined Community Efforts at Canyon County Festival of Trees

CWI celebrated the Canyon County Festival of Trees with a student-designed, garden-themed holiday tree, supporting Meals on Wheels and homebound seniors across Canyon County.

Community

Group of people holding technology and tools

Pre-Mechatronics Program Highlighted on National Stage

The College's Pre-Mechatronics program earned national recognition for its partnership with Micron, creating a new pathway that prepares adult learners for careers in advanced...

Community

Group of people stand outside with rakes and lawncare equipment

Law Enforcement Students Help Community During Rake Up Caldwell

CWI Law Enforcement students, staff, and families joined community volunteers for Rake Up Caldwell, helping local elderly and disabled residents prepare their yards for winter.

Community

Four people pose together in front of a wooden wall illuminated by colorful, projected light patterns at night.

CWI Students and Faculty Shine at Illuminated 2025

CWI faculty and students brought creativity and innovation to the spotlight during Illuminate 2025 at Surel’s Place in Garden City, showcasing sculpture, projection art, and photography.

Community

Giving & Scholarships

News By Category

Student holding a large check in front of crowd

Big Win and Big Impact at CWI Night

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

Giving & Scholarships

Person holding a large check stands in front of group people

CWI Nights Celebrates Students at Idaho Steelheads

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.

Giving & Scholarships

Man in cowboy hat in field with building behind him

The Lasting Impact of a Scholarship

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

Giving & Scholarships

Scholarships Open for 2026-2027 Academic Year

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

Giving & Scholarships

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.

Giving & Scholarships

Four people standing together holding a check

Local First – Pleasant Valley Solar 2 Scholarship Powers Student Success

Pleasant Valley Solar 2 partners committed $187,500 to CWI for a new workforce scholarship supporting career-focused education and strengthening Idaho’s local talent pipeline.

Giving & Scholarships

Fuel Student Success: Become a CWI Sustainer

Small, consistent acts of generosity can add up to lasting impact. That’s the idea behind the new CWI Sustainer Giving Program, a simple, meaningful way for anyone who believes in CWI’s...

Giving & Scholarships

Mackenzie Nash holds a giant check on the ice

CWI Kicks Off Steelheads Season with School Spirit and Scholarship Win

CWI fans packed Idaho Central Arena for CWI Night as the Steelheads won 5–2, celebrating school spirit, scholarships, and community support for student success.

Giving & Scholarships

A group of people stand on a staircase smiling and holding a large ceremonial check

Partnering for Progress – Westmark and CWI Unite for Student Success

Westmark Credit Union committed $35K to CWI to support the new Health and Science Building and invest in education and student success.

Giving & Scholarships

Opening Doors Event Raises $243K for Students

Community spirit shined bright as supporters came together for CWI Foundation’s Opening Doors Scholarship Event, raising funds to help students achieve a brighter future.

Giving & Scholarships

Person raising a bid paddle with the number 481 during an auction event, with string lights and attendees in the background.

Opening Doors Online Auction Open Sept. 15 – 28

The College of Western Idaho Foundation is opening its annual Opening Doors online auction Sept. 15 to support student scholarships.

Giving & Scholarships

Tickets Available for Opening Doors Scholarship Events

Individual tickets are available to purchase to attend College of Western Idaho Foundation's annual Opening Doors Scholarship Event on Friday, Sept. 26.

Giving & Scholarships

Alumni

News By Category

Student stands in front of billboard and next to shelving

Cabrera Builds Future Through CWI

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.

Alumni

Cody Phelps stands in front of backdrop and near stair railing

From Student to Faculty, Phelps Finds His Calling at CWI

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

Alumni

From CWI to Papua New Guinea: Landen Kelly’s Lens on the World

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...

Alumni

A student wearing nursing scrubs poses for a portrait in front of a brick building.

From a Childhood Calling to a Career in Nursing

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...

Alumni

An automotive painting instructor poses for a portrait in a painting lab.

Painted for Success: From CWI Student to Industry Leader

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

Alumni

Shaping Metal, Defying Odds: A CWI Graduate’s Path to Success

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...

Alumni

CWI Business Alums Earn Top Honors

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.

Alumni

CWI Alumnus Continues to Foster Change Around Community

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

Alumni

Accomplishing a Lifelong Dream Thanks to CWI

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

Alumni

Fostering Change

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.

Alumni

Andy Sifford is in the CWI Plumbing Apprenticeship Program preparing for the Journeyman’s test

Life-Changing Career Choice

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

Alumni

All-star Alumni—Jordie Ferro

CWI alumna, Jordie Ferro, receives internship in Las Vegas.

Alumni

Faculty & Staff

News By Category

Wallgren Named December 2025 Faculty of Distinction

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

Faculty & Staff

Bulthuis Named November 2025 Faculty of Distinction

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

Faculty & Staff

Elise Connor with a pipette at a lab counter

Connor Named October 2025 Faculty of Distinction

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

Faculty & Staff

Yadlin Selected to Idaho Humanities Council Board

Congratulations to Honors Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Humanities, Michal Yadlin, who has been appointed to the board of the Idaho Humanities Council as an academic...

Faculty & Staff

Jones Recognized Nationally as a Leader in Higher Education Innovation

President Gordon Jones has been named to the ASU+GSV Higher Education Insights Board.

Faculty & Staff

Jones and Arstein Named to Idaho Business Review’s IDAHO 500 List

CWI leaders Gordon Jones and Mark Arstein were named to Idaho Business Review’s IDAHO 500 for advancing education, workforce growth, and community opportunity.

Faculty & Staff

Stephanie Sevigny posing next to telescope in science lab

Sevigny Named September 2025 Faculty of Distinction

Congratulations to Assistant Professor of Physics, Stephanie Sevigny, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for September 2025.

Faculty & Staff

Sean Gould presenting on stage with projector screen behind them

Gould Named Idaho GEM Innovative Educator of the Year

CWI celebrates Philosophy Adjunct, Sean Gould, named Idaho’s 2025 GEM Innovative Educator for his creative teaching and dedication to student success.

Faculty & Staff

Provost Cannata Published in EdTech Chronicle

Provost Cannata shares insights in EdTech Chronicle on supporting students amid changing enrollment landscapes.

Faculty & Staff

CWI Deans are recognized at the WICHE Academic Partnerships 2025 Annual Meeting

College of Western Idaho Deans Greg Wilson and Justin Vance were honored at the 2025 WICHE Annual Meeting for completing prestigious leadership academies and advancing initiatives that...

Faculty & Staff

A professor poses for a photo in a library.

Suzanne Oppenheimer is the May 2025 Faculty of Distinction

Suzanne Oppenheimer, Assistant Professor of Biology at CWI, has been named Faculty of Distinction for May 2025 for her passionate, student-focused teaching that empowers learners to...

Faculty & Staff

A photo of a woman against a brick wall.

Kate Orduño is the March 2025 Faculty of Distinction

Kate Orduño, Support Faculty in the Math Solutions Center at the College of Western Idaho, has been recognized as the Faculty of Distinction for March 2025. Math Solutions Center

Faculty & Staff

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Media Contact

Ashley Smith

Government & Community Relations Executive Director

208.562.3106

ashleysmith5@cwi.edu