Congratulations to Jessica Chapple, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Staff of the Month for January 2022. Currently a Student Success Advisor, Chapple began at CWI as a Degree Specialist in the Registrar’s Office and has been at the College for nearly six years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Boise State University and has been working in higher education for nearly a decade.
“Knowing how beneficial CWI was going to be for the community is what attracted me to want to work here, she said. “I remember voting for the CWI campus in the same year I was graduating from Boise State. While I did not have access to a community college in Montana, it would have been a much better choice for me. After working at a proprietary college, it became obvious to me that I, personally, would have a more fulfilling career working for a college that puts its students over profits. I made it a goal to work at CWI did not stop until I got a position!”
As a Student Success Advisor, Chapple supports students in the Cisco Networking and Security Technologies, Computer Science, Computer Support Specialist, Cybersecurity, Network and System Administration, and Software Development programs.
“I like to think of myself as the glue between CWI, instruction, and students. I motivate and educate students by connecting them to a variety of resources and references. I strive to build meaningful relationships so students know they always have someone they can refer back to when needed. I try to cut out all the minutia and give students a clear representation of all their options so they can make the most informed decision for themselves and their educational pursuits.”
“Jessica works hard every day to support Information Technology (IT) students at CWI and deserves recognition for her outstanding commitment to excellence,” said Jenny Wokersien, Associate Professor in the Software Development program. “She visits our classrooms each semester to encourage students individually and as a group. She spends as much time as needed to find workable solutions to challenges and to ensure students understand their options. Her support, kindness, and resourcefulness make a big difference and directly affect students’ abilities to complete assignments, classes, certificates, and degrees. Several students have communicated their appreciation and respect for Jessica. She is a valued member of our team.”
“At CWI, we all share the same goal – supporting students,” said Chapple. “Whether working directly with students or supporting those who do, it is an incredibly rewarding work environment. Because of CWI, I get the privilege to witness the power of education on a daily basis.”
Chapple grew up in Laurel, Montana, where she was part of a high school graduating class of 70 students. While attending Montana State University Billings, transferred to Boise State and moved to the Treasure Valley sight unseen. She and her husband were married seven years ago in Las Vegas with her brother officiating. She loves all things food and beverage including cooking, dining out, and visiting wineries, breweries, coffee roasters, and cheese factories. She also enjoys traveling, reading, crafting, sewing, music, concerts, and dance parties in her living room (or office).
