Erin Aboud’s journey to College of Western Idaho (CWI) wasn’t easy, but every twist shaped her resilience, growth, and sense of purpose.
Dropping out of high school as a freshman, Aboud struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, and facing criminal charges.
“I got into a rehabilitation transitional living program in Boise, Idaho,” Aboud said. “That really changed my life and set me up for long term success and recovery.”
Nearly 15 years later, that turning point has come full circle. Soon after starting classes at CWI, Aboud took a leap for herself and for others.
“I started a nonprofit about three months into my college career here at CWI. It’s called Chrysalis Light Recovery Homes. We are getting ready to open our first home in March of 2026 in Reno, Nevada.”
Chrysalis Light Recovery Homes will provide transitional housing for women coming out of addiction, homelessness, or involvement with the justice system. Like Aboud once did, these women need a second chance and structured support to rebuild their lives.
Aboud enrolled in CWI’s Associate of Applied Science in Management program in 2024, drawn to its flexibility and practical focus. The online format allows her to balance coursework with motherhood, nonprofit development, and frequent travel between Idaho and Nevada.
Her management courses, from leadership to ethics, have offered tools directly applicable tools in building her nonprofit.
“I like to call it credibility,” Aboud said. “I have all this lived experience, but not the educational background. When I started, it wasn't for the purpose of running a nonprofit, but here I am, almost graduated with my associate's degree, and it's tying perfectly together. I want to be intentional in my education and the management degree has really given me that I that.”
In 2023, Aboud took her advocacy beyond the classroom. She testified at the Idaho State Capitol in front of legislators to support the Clean Slate Act, a bill that allows individuals to petition the court to shield one eligible offense from public view five years after completing their sentence.
“I had reached out to a senator and shared with him my story and let him know do deserve second chances, giving a human side to the piece of paper that they're reading on the bill,” she said.
Classes in speech and communications have helped her refine her voice, giving her the confidence to advocate effectively for others.
Balancing classes, motherhood, and launching a nonprofit put her to the test. At one-point, financial strain nearly caused her to step away from school.
“I was about ready to give up. The financial load and the time management load was getting to be a bit much for me,” Aboud said. “So being given the opportunity to accept a scholarship gave me confirmation and the confidence that I needed to really keep going and finish up what I started.”
Now, as graduation approaches and Chrysalis Light Recovery Homes prepares to open its doors, Aboud’s gratitude for CWI donors is clear.
“The donors are really giving us students the ability to get an affordable education and a great experience here at the College,” Aboud said. “Donors should know that they're appreciated. And students like me wouldn't be here without their support.”
What began as a personal comeback has grown into a mission-driven path. Through education, advocacy, and lived experience, Aboud is building a future that creates opportunity for others
