Sara Avila, the Benefits Administrator in the Human Resources department, has been named the Staff of the Month for October 2024. Sara’s dedication, warmth, and commitment to College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) mission of supporting students and staff have left a lasting impact on the college community.
Toen Phothisane, who nominated Avila, praised her for the kindness and empathy she brings to her role. “Sara embodies all the traits that make CWI great. She is patient, empathetic, and treats all employees with kindness and compassion,” he shared. As a bilingual professional, Avila goes the extra mile by assisting a diverse range of CWI community members, ensuring they fully understand the benefits available to them. Her willingness to provide one-on-one benefits sessions exemplifies her commitment to addressing questions and concerns with care.
Avila’s responsibilities as Benefits Administrator are extensive. She serves as a key contact for employees, managers, and stakeholders on benefits administration and leave management, including FMLA and Workers’ Compensation. She oversees annual benefits open enrollment, coordinates training sessions, and manages Workers’ Compensation claims from intake to closure. With her SHRM-CP certification and bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Boise State University, Avila’s expertise and professionalism contribute significantly to her team and the broader CWI community.
Reflecting on what drew her to CWI, Avila shared her perspective as a first-generation college graduate. “I understand firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with pursuing higher education. This experience has fueled my passion for encouraging others to take that extra mile — whether through earning a degree, certificate, or other qualifications. I feel that CWI supports each individual’s unique journey toward achieving their dreams.” Avila’s journey through higher education inspires her work, where she strives to make a difference for others every day.
Avila’s commitment to CWI’s mission, work-life balance, and collaboration stand out as hallmarks of her experience at the College. “CWI promotes a healthy work-life balance, offers robust benefits, and provides wellness resources to support employees’ well-being. It’s rewarding to contribute to a cause that positively impacts individuals and the community,” she said. One memorable moment for Avila was helping a student in crisis. “After listening and asking a few questions, I realized they needed guidance on budgeting. I provided them with a tool to manage their finances better, helping them avoid ‘crisis mode’ and continue their education. I believe the extra time we spend with a student, employee, or manager makes a difference.”
Avila’s journey at CWI began in Financial Aid as a Financial Aid Officer, where she worked for over a year before transitioning to Human Resources as a Recruiter, a role she held for five years. She now serves as the Benefits Administrator, a position she has held for the past two years. Her journey within the college reflects her dedication to serving the needs of both students and staff, making her a valuable part of the CWI team.
Beyond her professional achievements, Avila enjoys a vibrant personal life. Born in El Salvador and raised in Los Angeles County, California, she has resided in Idaho for the past 21 years. She has been married to her husband, Mario (Tiquito), for 28 years, and together they have a daughter, Madelyne, who is married to Garrett. In her spare time, Avila enjoys spending time in her garden, where the physical work brings her a sense of peace and therapy. She also loves dancing with her husband, embracing their cultural heritage through salsa, cumbia, and bachata, and hiking, especially in the Redfish Lake area.
Avila's kindness, dedication, and positive impact on the CWI community make her a deserving recipient of the Staff of the Month award for October 2024. Congratulations to her for her outstanding contributions to the College!
