Congratulations to Stacy Hardy, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Staff of the Month for May 2020. Hardy, a Web Developer for the Division of College Relations, has been an employee for nearly four and a half years, but began her journey at CWI as a Software Development student. As a student, she worked as an intern for the College’s web team where she was officially hired upon graduation in 2016.
“After graduating from North Idaho College with an associate degree in Commercial Art in 1999, I worked as a graphic designer for the Coeur d’Alene Press, Spokane Nickel Nik, and the Idaho Press,” Hardy said. “Once all my kids were in school, I was having a hard time finding a job. I decided to attend CWI to pursue software development as it would fit nicely with my graphic design experience.”
As a web developer, Hardy’s duties include providing support and training for content contributors on cwi.edu, moderation of new and updated content, as well as web design and accessibility for new components and features in development.
“CWI is a great place to work because we all work together to make a difference in students’ lives and help them to achieve their goals. I am very fortunate to work with an amazing team and a part of many projects. One project that really stands out is the accomplishment of improving web accessibility on cwi.edu from 78% to 99.5% accessible.”
“Stacy approaches all of her work with a strong sense of integrity,” said Audrey Eldridge, Executive Director of Communications and Marketing. “She does an excellent job of balancing goals of the project, best practices, timelines, and best interests of the team and institution. She is the first to sign up to help, show up to volunteer, or lead any special effort. She not only cares on a professional level but also a personal one. She takes interest in everyone and finds the positive in every person, every situation, and does this with a smile. She is even tempered, yet passionate about her work and doing what is best for our students. As a CWI graduate, she has become a fantastic role model for all.”
“Stacy is a valuable asset to our team and the CWI community,” commented Bryson Caldwell, Web Services Manager. “She fearlessly meets challenges head-on, regularly taking on new objectives navigating them with organization and grace. It has been a pleasure to work with her over the years.”
Hardy grew up in Cove, Oregon, and moved to Council, Idaho, her junior year of high school. Her and her husband, a Senior Press Operator at Idaho Press, have lived in Caldwell for the past 19 years. Together the couple has four children and two granddaughters. Outside of the office, she enjoys painting, dancing, gardening, camping, riding her motorcycle, and skiing.
“Because of CWI, my life as transformed from a stay-at-home mom to a full-time employee while showing my children that it can be rewarding to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.”
