Congratulations to Gary Brennan, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Staff of the Month for July 2021. An employee at the College for nearly nine years, Brennan is currently an HRIS Administrator in Human Resources (HR).
“What drew me to CWI, and keeps me here, is our students and the culture,” Brennan said. “Knowing I played a role in helping someone achieve their goals and make a better life for themselves and their family, no matter how small this role may be, makes everything I do worth it.”
Brennan earned two Computer Science certifications as a student at CWI and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management through Western Governors University. Beginning his journey at CWI in 2012 as a Security Officer, Brennan has also been a Building Specialist and Mail Courier. In 2019, he encountered what he refers to as a “chance of a lifetime” when offered a Coordinator position in HR.
“I had spent years applying for different positions and going to school to better myself. I felt stuck in my career and just didn’t think I really had a chance at anything more. Being hired to work in HR showed me someone believed in me and my potential. Because of CWI, I have a career I am proud of.”
Now, as an HRIS Administrator, Brennan oversees the input, maintenance, and accuracy of HR data and metrics which includes personal and confidential employee information regarding benefits, staffing, compensation, and diversity.
"Gary is a key contributor to the HR team, and I’m happy to see him recognized by others for the work he does," said Vice President of Human Resources, Ryan Herring. "Gary is passionate about what we do at CWI, and it shows in his work."
“When I joined the CWI HR team, Gary went above and beyond to ensure my training and onboarding went smoothly,” said HR Coordinator, Toen Phothisane. “He was always available, took time out of his day to answer questions, and saw that I understood my new role before moving on. Even though he's been with the college since 2012, he still loves what he does. We have done a few New Hire Orientation presentations together welcoming new CWI staff, and when Gary speaks about his experience working at the College, he beams with pride.”
“As an employee, I appreciate the value, respect, and inclusion I feel,” said Brennan. “This is truly the only place I have ever worked where I feel excited to wake up and go to work. CWI is a second family to me.”
Spending most of his life in Idaho, Brennan has also lived in Texas and Georgia. Two of his family members also work at the College – his mother, Renee Brennan, and nephew, Tyler Price. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and two sons, taking his Jeep out to explore, playing Xbox, and is an avid gun collector.
