Diane Bartlett, an Adjunct Professor in the Social Sciences Department at the College of Western Idaho (CWI), has been named Faculty of Distinction for October 2024. With three years of dedicated service, Diane has significantly impacted the CWI community through her teaching, commitment to accessible education, and genuine care for her students.
Diane teaches a range of courses, including Human Sexuality, Gender Studies, and Human Relations for Success. Her approach to education is rooted in her belief that teaching provides hope for the future and an opportunity to positively influence the community. “I teach because it is fun; it gives me hope for our future and the amazing contributions students will make in our community, country, and world,” she shared. Diane’s experience as a social worker and her dedication to mentorship have shaped her teaching style, allowing her to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.
Her colleagues commend Diane’s unwavering dedication to CWI, noting her willingness to take on new courses and support her department’s needs. A faculty nominator expressed admiration for Diane’s openness and friendly nature, stating, “Diane is friendly and open, creating an energy that helps others feel welcome and important.” This positive energy extends to her students, who appreciate her interactive teaching style and the safe space she creates for open dialogue. One student remarked, “Diane helps communicate complex ideas and pushes us to research things we might not have considered.”
Diane’s background in social work and psychology is extensive, with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Family Studies and a Master of Science in Social Work. She has worked in various capacities including hospice care, oncology, and non-profit work for new parents — enriching her teaching with real-world perspectives. This experience also allows her to bring current professional insight and practical applications into the classroom. Diane has been particularly impactful in courses dealing with sensitive topics, where she fosters a “brave space” for students to share their experiences, leading to transformative class discussions and personal growth.
One of her proudest moments at CWI involved a student enrolled in her Human Sexuality course while serving as a Marine stationed in Russia. This experience highlighted the unique perspectives students bring to the classroom and Diane’s ability to create meaningful exchanges despite distance or cultural differences. “These profound opportunities in class discussions provide a space for learning, unlearning, and relearning what it means to be a human being in a diverse community,” said Bartlett.
Beyond her academic contributions, Bartlett is deeply rooted in her family and community. Originally from the San Francisco area, she grew up in California before pursuing her education in Texas. She now lives in Idaho close to her parents and children, who are embarking on their own career paths. Her two children are actively pursuing their dreams — her son is a French horn player and barista in Seattle, and her daughter works as a pediatric ICU nurse at a hospital in Boise. Bartlett finds joy in spending time with her miniature dachshund, Daisy Mae, and enjoys cultural activities such as attending the Boise Philharmonic and the Idaho Shakespeare Festival.
Bartlett’s recognition as the Faculty of Distinction for October 2024 underscores her dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to the well-being of her students make her an invaluable asset to the CWI community.
