Mike Fisher, an Assistant Professor in the Physical Sciences Department at the College of Western Idaho (CWI), has been awarded Faculty of Distinction for September 2024. With a decade of dedication to CWI, Fisher’s teaching approach, genuine care for students, and commitment to academic growth have left a lasting impact on the college community.
In his role at CWI, Fisher teaches General Chemistry for the first and second semesters, along with their accompanying labs. His teaching philosophy is built around the idea of a “unique symbiosis” in education. “The learning and growth belong to a student. Teachers, however, borrow some of the excitement each time a student learns. It is sustaining,” said Fisher. His passion for chemistry and education is reflected in the positive feedback from students who deeply value his approachable and encouraging nature.
Fisher’s academic and professional background includes work as a lab chemist and a secondary school teacher, providing him with a solid foundation to make challenging material accessible and engaging. He goes beyond traditional teaching methods by focusing on hands-on learning and engagement, a practice students appreciate. As one student, Kyle Neu, noted, “Mike always encourages me and reassures me that I’ll be fine, which has helped me manage my stress and workload. His reassurance has helped me believe in myself, even on tough days.”
Fisher’s impact extends beyond individual classes; he is recognized for fostering a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment. A nominator, Abby Wolford, commended him for his humility and efforts to amplify underrepresented voices in his course materials through Open Educational Resources (OER). “He embodies so many of the values we have as an institution — affordable texts, more voices, and working with an embedded tutor to help students succeed,” said Wolford.
Students repeatedly highlighted Fisher’s patience, clarity, and ability to connect complex concepts, making chemistry less intimidating. One student expressed, “Professor Fisher explains the subject material in a way that even a child could understand. He’s made me realize that chemistry doesn’t need to be as hard as it seems and that it’s okay to fail but to try anyway.” Known for his compassionate teaching style, Fisher avoids traditional lecture formats, opting instead to engage students by writing on the whiteboard and encouraging questions. His positive reinforcement has empowered many students who once doubted their abilities in challenging subjects like chemistry.
Fisher appreciates the supportive community at CWI, where the exchange of ideas among faculty enriches the academic environment. Reflecting on his time at CWI, he recalled discovering a Flamenco dance and music performance on campus, an experience he found “edifying.” For Fisher, CWI’s culture fosters not only student growth but also collaboration and learning among colleagues.
Outside of his professional life, Fisher is dedicated to his family. He and his wife, Maria, have five children aged 9, 7, 4, and twins who are 3. In his spare time, he enjoys biking during the summer and spending quality time with his family.
Fisher’s recognition as Faculty of Distinction for September 2024 honors his tireless commitment to his students and the academic community at CWI. His approachable, student-centered teaching style and deep empathy make him a valuable asset to the college, inspiring students and colleagues alike.
*Photo provided by Mike Fisher.
