College of Western Idaho (CWI) President, Gordon Jones, and Vice President of Advancement, Mark Arstein, have been named to Idaho Business Review’s IDAHO 500, a premier recognition honoring the most influential and accomplished professionals across the state. The annual list highlights leaders who are driving innovation, strengthening communities, and shaping Idaho’s future.
President Jones was recognized as one of Idaho’s top leaders in the Education category. The publication noted his leadership in advancing CWI’s mission of accessible, workforce-driven education, including shepherding the College’s first bachelor’s degree in Business Administration while simultaneously undertaking four major building projects and entering a $138 million fundraising campaign, Powering the Treasure Valley.
“I am passionate about advancing affordable higher education that improves employment and life opportunities, maximizing public education’s value for students and communities,” said Jones. “As the Treasure Valley grows, these services are essential to sustaining growth in the workforce and economy.”
Arstein earned recognition as a top leader in Economic Development for his role in establishing CWI’s revitalized Advancement Division and Foundation. Since joining the College, he has built a high-performing team and helped secure significant philanthropic support, fueling student success and institutional investment.
“Fundraising in higher education can sometimes be a rollercoaster ride, and it requires patience, persistence, and understanding that we are always on the donor’s timeline,” Arstein said.
Jones and Arstein join a select group of leaders whose work is shaping Idaho’s future and expanding opportunities for communities across the state.
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
