College of Western Idaho (CWI) student Megan Smith’s artistic vision will take center stage at this year’s Connections Project. Smith, a Studio Art student, was selected as the winner of the 2025 Connections Project Logo Contest, an annual competition inviting students to create a design representing CWI’s annual academic and creative showcase.
Smith, who earned her first Associate of Arts degree in Studio Art from CWI in 2024, is currently working toward a second Associate of Arts degree in Elementary Education. She plans to transfer to Boise State University (BSU) to complete a bachelor’s degree. When she learned about the contest through art classes, she saw it as an opportunity to challenge herself.
“In at least two of my classes we had the option to submit something for extra credit,” Smith said. “I did it for the class at first and didn’t think too much about it, but then an idea popped into my head, and I got excited.”
To develop her concept, Smith explored the Connections Project website and consulted with her professor, April Vandegrift. She was inspired by the event’s mission to highlight student talent across disciplines.
“My original idea featured a plant with leaves and people climbing them,” Smith shared. “After working through different concepts with my professor, we decided this version was the strongest.”
A passionate artist from a young age, Smith enjoys working with oil paints and charcoal but has recently explored digital and graphic art. She found creating the winning logo to be a satisfying experience and a new way to express her creativity.
For Smith, CWI has been an ideal place to pursue her education.
“I’ve been paying for college out of pocket and taking as many classes as I can each semester,” she said. “CWI was the best option for me in high school, even compared to other schools that offered scholarships. I’m sad to leave soon because it’s been such a great experience.”
The Connections Project, set to take place in spring 2025, celebrates student achievements in research, creative work, and innovation across multiple disciplines. The annual showcase invites students, faculty, and the community to explore and engage with CWI’s vibrant academic and artistic community.
Smith’s logo will serve as the official branding for the event, appearing on promotional materials, event signage, and more.
Visit the Connections Project page for more information and to learn how to participate.
