The atmosphere was vibrant at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) in Boise as the College of Western Idaho (CWI) community gathered May 1 to celebrate student leaders, clubs, and advisors during the annual Student Leadership Awards Banquet. The evening recognized students whose leadership, service, and dedication helped shape campus life during the 2025-2026 academic year.
Awards highlighted achievements in community engagement, student connection, mentorship, and organizational leadership, honoring the many ways students contribute both on campus and beyond.
Student Club Award Winners for 2025-2026
Community Service Program of the Year
Through the Boise River Rewild Project, Biology Club demonstrates their commitment to community service by continuing vital ecological restoration work well beyond the project’s original deadline. Their effort seamlessly blends environmental stewardship with meaningful community building proving that protecting local habitats is as much as fostering friendship as it is about planting native specifics.
Social Program of the Year
MTG (Magic the Gathering) DrafterNoon, hosted by Gaming Club, strengthens student connection and belonging through an accessible, highly interactive “build-and-play” format. Students sit together, open packs side-by-side, compare choices, ask questions and help each other learn. By blending thoughtful student-led execution with a structure that naturally fosters peer mentorship and collaboration, it serves as an exceptional model for creativity and community building.
Quiet Influence Award
William Soltau from Gaming Club embodies the spirit of this award through his consistent, behind-the-scenes dedication that keeps the club stable, welcoming and functional. His consistent reliability and initiative go beyond expectations, providing the foundational teamwork and leadership needed for the club to thrive.
Rising Leader Award
Ben Vogt from Psychology Club demonstrates his willingness to step forward to take on responsibility and a readiness to serve those around him. He had shown a strong commitment to adaptability through his thoughtfulness of setting realistic expectations and working with others to prioritize what best meets their needs and interests. His positive energy, sense of fun, and inclusive mindset ensures his peers feel welcome.
Trailblazing Leadership Award
William Soltau from Gaming Club fosters a lasting positive impact on the campus community through integrity, accountability, and a commitment to CWI’s core values. He has been a steady force in ensuring the success and stability of Gaming Club, by elevating and empowering other students to lead and proactively offering solutions that will strengthen student life in meaningful ways.
Student Organization Advisor of the Year
Ted Daniels from Soccer Club is a transformative advisor whose dedication to the club extends from technical coaching and extra training sessions to a sincere investment in the players’ academic success. Through his compassion and commitment, Ted has fostered a thriving community where every member feels valued, supported and empowered to grow both on and off the field.
Outstanding Officer of the Year
Nathan Walker from Biology Club served as the “steady hand” of the club, combining meticulous organization and mentorship to foster a thriving community both on campus and through digital platforms. From overseeing long-term conservation projects to spearheading events like “Raptor Day”, his proactive leadership has ensured the club’s success while leaving a lasting impact on both his peers and the local ecosystem.
Student Organization of the Year
Biology Club exemplifies a premier student-led model, fostering an inclusive community where members build lasting friendships through collaborative leadership and member-driven initiatives. By balancing dedicated habitat restoration with interactive STEM outreach, the club successfully inspired the next generation of scientists while providing students with vital professional networking and career exploration opportunities.
Thank you, and congratulations to all our student leaders, clubs, advisors, staff, and faculty who have helped make the 2025-2026 academic year a success!
To learn more about the CWI Clubs and campus life, including Club Awards, please visit the Campus Life page.
