Celebrating Excellence: Student Leadership Award Winners Announced

Published: May 8, 2025

The atmosphere was vibrant at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) in Boise on Friday, May 2, as the community gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of student leaders at the annual College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Student Leadership Awards Banquet. The evening was dedicated to recognizing the hard work, dedication, and significant impact these students have made on campus and beyond, highlighting their invaluable contributions.

Student Club Award Winners for 2024-2025

Community Service Program of the Year

Through STEM Night at Roosevelt Elementary, Chemistry Club demonstrates their commitment to community service and science education by providing engaging, hands-on chemistry demonstrations. Members regularly volunteer their expertise to address the need for hands-on science experiences, promote science literacy, and foster a service-oriented mindset.

Social Program of the Year

Night of the Living Moles, hosted by Chemistry Club united the CWI community with a unique blend of science, Halloween fun, and camaraderie, featuring interactive experiments, science trivia, a costume contest, and festive decorations that made science accessible and exciting.

Student Organization of the Year

Exercise is Medicine Club has significantly impacted campus and local community through diverse health-focused initiatives, including collaborative events, partnerships with counseling and local organizations, and consistent delivery of high-quality events that foster a healthier, more active community.

Student Organization Advisor of the Year

Rick Del Vecchio from the Gaming Club for his exceptional dedication and support by volunteering countless hours, offering invaluable guidance and technical expertise, and cultivating a positive environment that empowers students, strengthens community, and provides lasting opportunities for growth.

Outstanding Officer of the Year

Daniel Strilets from Chemistry Club for significantly improving the club through proactive engagement, enhanced communication, community building, and spearheading a large community STEM outreach event that engaged over 200 students.

Quiet Influence Award

Madelyn Miller from Chemistry Club for her instrumental behind-the-scenes effort, including her reliability in coordinating event logistics, her calm, solution-focused approach to challenges, and her proactive nature in improving club systems and mentoring members. A key foundation of Chemistry Club’s success.

Trailblazing Leadership Award

Caleb Ball from the Astronomy Club has positively impacted students by creating a safe haven dedicated to astronomy, science, and creativity, securing a Unistellar telescope, actively uplifting others, and demonstrating adaptability and innovation through resourceful problem-solving and championing CWI core values.

Thank you, and congratulations to all our student leaders, clubs, advisors, staff, and faculty who have helped make the 2024-2025 academic year a success!

To learn more about the club award categories, visit Club Awards.

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