Congratulations to Nikki Houston, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Staff of the Month for July 2020. Nearing a decade of service at the College, Houston’s CWI story began when she was hired to be an Administrative Assistant for the CWI Foundation.
“My first day at CWI was the first day of the Fall 2011 semester,” Houston said. “I had no clue where any of the buildings were, what the building acronyms were, or how to answer students’ questions, so I did the next best thing – I handed out cookies at the Bookstore!”
Having the privilege of working in several different areas of the College over the years including as an Administrative Assistant for Facilities, an Enrollment Counselor, and now a Student Success Advisor, Houston said it was her time working with the Foundation and being a part of raising money for scholarships that sparked her passion for CWI.
“I love our students and my CWI family. Being a part of students’ journeys is so rewarding. Each has such a unique story. Because of CWI, students are realizing their passions. We really are helping students change their lives, and I am so lucky I get to be a part of it!”
“Nikki is the most helpful, kind, welcoming person I've met at CWI,” commented a student. “She was the first staff member I met and helped me fall in love with the school. Whatever hesitation I had before starting my journey as a student disappeared upon meeting with her and laying out a plan for my degree. She got me excited about earning a Business degree. I know exactly who to go to if I have any questions about what my next steps should be if I feel stuck.”
“Nikki cares deeply about her students and is passionate about helping them achieve their goals,” said Shelly Moore, Department Chair of Business. “She has been an amazing asset to our department advising our students. Nikki is fun and full of energy bringing excitement and positivity to every room she enters. CWI is fortunate to have her!”
Houston grew up in Boise and graduated from Boise State University in 2010 with a degree in Mass Communication/Journalism. Those who know Houston know it is not only CWI she is passionate about!
“I think it goes without saying, I am a devoted Taylor Swift fan – no shame whatsoever! I bleed blue and orange and never miss a Boise State football game… seriously, never. Dutch Bros is life, and I am incredibly close to my family – we do everything together! I am also passionate about giving back to the community. I enjoy working with the Women’s and Children’s Alliance, am a former Board Director of Advocates Against Family Violence in Caldwell, and am proactively involved in the annual No More and Denim Day campaigns.”
Houston and her soon-to-be husband have a 7-year old son and 5-year old daughter. The couple is anxiously awaiting their wedding set to take place early next year after having to postpone it due to COVID-19. As a family, they enjoy being outside, hiking, and attending sporting events.
