A new scholarship opportunity is now available for Machine Tool Technology students at College of Western Idaho (CWI). Named after late CWI student, Nathaniel Stewart Dando, a 2019 graduate of the program, the Dando 300 Scholarship was created by Nathaniel’s father, Ross Dando.
“This scholarship is in honor of my amazing son,” Ross said. “Nathaniel was an awesome young man full of dreams and plans for his future. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle no matter how bad the weather was or how deep the mud was. We lost Nathaniel to suicide on March 2020. His motorcycle race number was 300.”
Nathaniel’s college journey began like many other students in search of a better job and future.
Ross instilled in his son if you want something, start with a dream, then work hard to achieve it. With a little patience and determination, he landed the job he wanted, however, he was in need of the education and training to go along with it. Nathaniel admitted school was not his thing, and was often a struggle. However, his belief in dreams coming true through hard work kept him going. After two and a half years, he completed the Machine Tool Technology program and graduated from not only CWI but from the manufacturing floor where he had been working.
Tragically, in March 2020 Ross lost his son, Nathaniel, to suicide. This loss inspired Ross to support future students in pursuit of their dream job.
“Sometimes grades don’t show the strength and perseverance of a student,” shared Ross. “This scholarship is aimed at individuals, like Nathaniel, who just need an extra hand to ensure success in their educational experience.”
The Dando 300 scholarship assists second-year Machine Tool Technology students. In addition, Ross requested a match from his current employer, Micron. The company responded to this request with a match, elevating the value of the scholarship to $2,400; awarded annually.
To apply or learn more, visit the Grants and Scholarships page. Apply by July 30 for Fall 2022 classes which begin Aug. 22!
