When Andy Del Toro Obeso enrolled at College of Western Idaho (CWI), he never imagined he would one day be recognized nationally for his academic and leadership achievements. Now in his second year studying Political Science, Del Toro Obeso has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), an honor that includes a $1,000 scholarship and a commemorative medallion.
Born in Nampa and raised in Boise to immigrant parents from Sinaloa, Mexico, Del Toro Obeso grew up facing immense challenges — from systemic disadvantage to mental health struggles that led to multiple hospitalizations. “It felt like the whole world was against me,” he said. “Despite it all — the overwhelming odds, the illness, the people rooting against me — I kept going.”
A Drive to Create Change
Del Toro Obeso’s journey is defined by resilience and a desire to spark lasting change. “I am determined now, more than ever, to help build a better world — one that makes life better for everyone,” he said. That drive led him to the Political Science program at CWI, a path he believes will help him understand how systems operate and how they can be improved.
“I want to learn how I can help improve society,” he explained. “Learning about the history of politics, not just in the United States but globally, gives me the tools to envision a better future.”
Leading Inside and Outside the Classroom
His dedication to change-making extends beyond the classroom. Del Toro Obeso currently serves as President of CWI’s Beta Sigma Pi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and is the Treasurer of the CWI Soccer Club. He has been involved with the Navegando Mentor program and recognized for his volunteer work with other charitable organizations in the Treasure Valley. His leadership and service efforts were instrumental in his nomination for the Coca-Cola Academic Team, which selects students based on academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.
“Andy’s journey is both powerful and inspiring,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to support outstanding community college students like him who are working to shape a better world.”
Inspired by Family, Fueled by Purpose
Del Toro Obeso attributes much of his motivation to his mother, who has been a steadfast supporter through his most difficult moments. “She has gone through hell and back,” he shared. “It is because of what the world did to her that I fight every day to ensure this world is reformed.”
His academic success, however, hasn’t come without setbacks. Struggling with depression, social anxiety, and body dysmorphia, Del Toro Obeso found strength through therapy, medication, and a belief in his own potential. “The pain hasn’t decreased. I’m getting stronger,” he said.
Looking Ahead
After graduating in May from CWI with an Associate of Arts degree in Political Science, he plans to continue his education at Boise State University, where he has been accepted into the Honors College. He also currently works as a Project and Administrative Intern Manager at Elevate Empire LLC and aspires to a career in public service or activism, working to reform the very systems that once seemed impossible to overcome.
To new students just beginning their journey, Del Toro Obeso offers heartfelt advice: “Advocate for yourself. Challenge anything and everything. Be open, be involved, and don’t let institutions define your worth. Marginalized or not, you have the power to achieve great things.”
His story is not only one of academic recognition but of defiance against the odds, inspired by family legacy and a revolutionary spirit. “During the Mexican Revolution, my great-grandfather fought with Pancho Villa,” he said. “I have a very big legacy to live up to. That’s what I want to be — a revolutionary.”
Del Toro Obeso’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, determination, community, and education can spark transformation — not just for one student, but for society as a whole.
Passionate about the engines of government? Learn more about Political Science at CWI!
