College of Western Idaho (CWI) presented to Idaho lawmakers in late January, with a number of activities and sessions being held in conjunction with Legislative Education Week (Jan. 20-24). Once again CWI partnered with College of Southern Idaho (CSI) and North Idaho College (NIC) to host a Legislative luncheon, before presenting to various committees.
The collaboration and shared mission of Idaho’s community colleges was emphasized throughout the week. On Monday, the three colleges hosted legislative representatives to a lunch allowing each institution to highlight the value and benefits of educational services through student body presidents, and also share information on the important role each college is playing in economic vitality for the state. Later that afternoon President Glandon from CWI, Jeff Fox from CSI, and Joe Dunlap from NIC partnered in a joint presentation to the Senate Education Committee. The theme of Idaho’s community colleges is a unified agenda on equitable funding, college and career readiness/workforce preparation, dual credit, and Voluntary Framework of Accountability.
In addition to the joint presentations, President Glandon had an opportunity to present to the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee as well as the House Education Committee. Each presentation highlighted the successes of CWI students and programs, detailed the College’s plans and needs to continue in providing quality education, and CWI’s continued efforts in partnering with public and private entities to ensure our students success in obtaining viable skills.