College of Western Idaho (CWI) is pleased to welcome Michael Jensen, CWI Foundation’s new Director of Development, and Foundation Operations and Database Coordinator, La Dawn Anderst.
Michael Jensen
Michael Jensen was born in Malad City, Idaho. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University in Parks and Recreation, Jensen spent 28 years in the non-profit world. The last 15 years he served as COO/Director of Field Service for the Ore-Ida Council BSA in Boise, Idaho. Jensen also served as a commissioner for the Idaho Governor’s Commission on Volunteerism, Serve Idaho, for 10 years, including a term as President, Vice-President, and Chairman of the Governor’s Brightest Star Recognition Event.
Jensen has been married to his wife, Trudi, for 29 years. They have three children: McKenna, a graduate from University of Utah; Shad, a senior at Mountain View High School; and Sarah, a fifth grader at Christine Donnell School of the Arts. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, reading, and spending time at Disneyland.
La Dawn Anderst
La Dawn, or “LD” as she prefers, is a 30-year transplant from the state of Washington. She made the Treasure Valley her home after attending Northwest Nazarene University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.
Prior to joining the CWI Foundation, Anderst served the last two years as the Idaho Bankers Association’s Executive Vice President. She boasts a 26-year career with the Idaho REALTORS®, the last four as the CEO. While there, she also assumed the roles of Education Director, Membership Services Director, Policy Coordinator, Convention Coordinator, Idaho REALTOR® Leadership Academy Coordinator, Director of Operations and Interim CEO.
Anderst lives in Nampa with her family. They volunteer and support several non-profit organizations in their community, especially the Boys and Girls Club of Nampa and 208 Cares veterans organization where she also serves as a founding Board member.
The CWI Foundation, in partnership with the community, is dedicated to empowering student success and affordable access to education. The Foundation, governed by a Board of Directors, is made up of community members dedicating their time and professional expertise to support the mission of the college. Funds raised by the Foundation support student scholarships and provide vital educational opportunities.
“Supporting students through the Foundation goes beyond helping one individual,” said Jensen and Anderst. “The ripple effect is felt by those who support them, including their community. The opportunity to pursue post-secondary education at CWI creates a pathway for future success. Together, those contributions add up to an optimistic future for us all.”
Learn more about the CWI Foundation and giving opportunities by visiting cwi.edu/foundation or calling 208.562.3100.