The Nagel Foundation has entered its seventh year as a critical community partner of College of Western Idaho (CWI), donating an additional $224,000 for student scholarships. Altogether, the Foundation’s investment in CWI students now totals $1,232,000 and has benefited over 275 recipients.
Faculty, administrators, and students met with Nagel Foundation representatives at the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC) on March 12 for a luncheon and to express their gratitude.
The Nagel Foundation scholarship fund was established at the College in 2019 to keep the legacy of the Nagel Beverage Company alive by enriching and giving back to the community through education and service. The scholarships are awarded from the fund to second-year career and technical education students.
“The Nagel Foundation supports CWI and the students through scholarships,” said Nagel Vice President, Ryan Fornstrom. “We feel this is a good way to ease the financial burden on students wanting to better their lives and also help the community in providing a proficient workforce.”
Though unable to attend in person, CWI President Gordon Jones did share his gratitude. “All parts of this institution appreciate help from our community partners, specifically the Nagel Foundation, and it’s our goal to give back to that same community,” said Jones. “The investment in our students helps diffract the true cost of education and acts as a catalyst for generational change, allowing CWI alumni to increase their lifetime wage earnings and providing financial security and better opportunities for their families.”
Nagel Foundation scholarships are open to CWI students in the Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology, Welding and Metals Fabrication, Machine Tool Technology, Drafting Technology, Automotive Technology, Heavy Duty Truck, Heavy Duty Equipment, and Network and System Administration programs.