CWI News – April 12, 2024
News Highlights
CWI Celebrates New Chapter of Campus Expansion with Bridge Signing Ceremony
College of Western Idaho (CWI) has marked the completion of the first phase of ongoing campus expansion as work on a new bridge — connecting the future Horticulture and Agricultural Science Building to Cherry Lane and the rest of the Nampa Campus — wraps up.
To commemorate the event, dignitaries and others involved with bringing this vision to light gathered to sign their names next to a floral mural on the surface of the bridge, painted by CWI graduate and Heavy-Duty Truck Instructor, Marcos Garcia, and CWI student, Caleb Chereji. Amongst signees were Chair Molly Lenty of the Board of Trustees and CWI President Gordon Jones, along with respected legislators, Mayor Debbie Kling of Nampa, and other invaluable community partners.
The festivities also marked the beginning of construction for the Health and Science Building, as well as the Horticulture and Agricultural Science Building — two structures that pave the way for the groundbreaking of a Student Learning Hub set to launch in the fall of 2025.
"CWI's expansion projects are more than just an addition of buildings — it's a bold step towards enhancing our educational offerings and our community's access to cutting-edge resources," said President Jones. "This bridge signing event symbolizes our journey forward together, bridging our past achievements with future possibilities."
These new facilities will host advanced classrooms and expansive community spaces meant to enhance the learning experience for students and provide a hub for community engagement and professional development.
Adding her voice in support was Nampa’s Mayor Debbie Kling who remarked, “I am so thankful for College of Western Idaho, which bridges the gap between our workforce and higher education. They serve a critical role in our community of which I am very grateful.”
CWI's Board of Trustees Chair, Molly Lenty, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing "the new buildings will not only enrich our campus but will also equip our students and faculty with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving world."
With the bridge located in an active construction zone, attendance at the signing was limited for safety reasons.
Learn more about CWI expansion plans for both Boise and Nampa on our Campus Development page.
26 Medals! CWI Shines at SkillsUSA Idaho Competition
College of Western Idaho (CWI) students showcased their talents at the 2024 SkillsUSA Idaho State Leadership and Skills Conference! The event, hosted at CWI campus locations including the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC) on April 6, saw CWI students from various programs participate in both the leadership and skills competitions where they brought home 26 medals — six bronze, 10 silver, and 10 gold.
SkillsUSA is a nonprofit organization serving middle school, high school, and college students. In partnering with students, teachers, and industry, the organization works to provide a skilled workforce in America. Lab Materials Manager, Kelly McDaid, serves as CWI’s SkillsUSA advisor and is joined by several CWI instructors who act as competition-specific SkillsUSA advisors; JohnD Thompson, Sean McConnachie, Justin Moore, David Kerr, Jake Weber, Vince Palagi, Robert Novak, Jared Hemley, and Mike Wheeler.
Both high school and college students from all over the state of Idaho competed in these events and many industry partners assisted in running competitions. This gave CWI an opportunity to showcase the equipment, lab space, and student experience to a variety of prospective students and industry partners.
Students competed in several different categories, including Diesel Technology, Information Technology, CNC Machining, Welding Fabrication and Sculpture, Collision Repair, Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair, Robotics, Electronics, Mechatronics, and Drafting.
GOLD
Simeon Grant – Computer Programming
Josiah Kalousek – Customer Service
Nate Gaddy – Cyber Security
Stanley Ward – Cyber Security
Martin Kay – Mechatronics
Eric Proksch – Mechatronics
Jeffrey Seekamp – Photography
Mitch Gentry – Power Equipment Technology
Tony Ha – Telecommunications Cabling
Grace Wontorcik – Welding Sculpture
SILVER
Alec Nowatzki – Automated Manufacturing Technology
Myaro Miller – Automated Manufacturing Technology
Robert Robinson – Automated Manufacturing Technology
Jordan Mabbutt – Computer Programming
Owen Sabus – Customer Service
Joseph Spring – Cybersecurity
Anthony Toronto – Cybersecurity
Nathaniel Ralston – Extemporaneous Speaking
Kelly Rice – Photography
Lukas McTeague – Power Equipment Technology
BRONZE
Teryn Blackletter – Computer Programming
Chase Christensen – Customer Service
Nathaniel Ralston – Electronics Technology
Robert Robinson – Extemporaneous Speaking
Cory Kwan – Photography
Silas Aldridge – Power Equipment Technology
Students who received gold medals in their events secured a place at the SkillsUSA National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, this June.
Best of luck to our CWI student delegation traveling to nationals!
CWI Honors Service Anniversaries of Employees
Human Resources, in partnership with Communications and Marketing, is thrilled to announce the redesign of our Employee Service Recognition Awards. With a new vendor, our 5-, 10-, and 15-year service awards will have a fresh design that will serve as a lasting testament to each employee’s achievement.
While awaiting the final steps of design and approval, we want to honor our dedicated employees for reaching these milestones.
5-Year Work Anniversary Employees
Jeff Fortner – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Deborah Reed – Adjunct Teaching Faculty, Math
Therese Woozley – Adjunct Faculty, Communication
Kari Meyers – Program Manager, Program Management Office
Shelly Henson – Degree Services Advisor, Registrar’s Office
Lynda Cartwright – Teacher, Adult Education
Karla Cordova – Administrative Assistant, School of Health
Dan Garrity – Instructor, Marketing
Julia Bennett – Instructor, Marketing
Jessica Concie – Transition Specialty Coordinator, Dual Credit
Danielle Luna – Administrative Assistant, Enrollment & Student Services Administration
Jessica Barber – Instructor, Biology
Elise Connor – Assistant Professor, Biology
Karren Farnsworth – Teacher, Adult Education
George Gifford – Senior IT Database Administrator, Enterprise Application Service
Bea Gogate – IT Business Intelligence Architect, Enterprise Application Service
Jonathan Gose – IT Applications Architect, Enterprise Application Service
Debra McCarver – Adjunct Faculty, Business
Michael Wilson – Senior IT Security Analyst, Enterprise Application Service
Alisa Bohling – Instructor, English
Roni Rankin – Adjunct Faculty, English
Eric Pietrzak – Surgical Technology Representative, Surgical Technology Program
JohnD Thompson – Department Chair, Automotive Service & Collision Repair
Justin Moore – Instructor, Machine Tool Technology
Eric Harris – Instructor, Machine Tool Technology
Cody Sprague – Graphic Designer, Communications & Marketing
Jennifer Miller – Manager, Math Solutions Center
Jill Aldrich – Product Development Specialist, Workforce Development
Justin Dance – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Ashley Robison – Instructor, Medical Assistant
Lynne Roberts – Director of Clinical Education/Program Director, Physical Therapist Assistant
Darr Anderson – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Jan Hanson – Teacher, Adult Education
Sherry Howard – Teacher, Adult Education
Brett Belden – Supervisor, Tutoring Services
Natasha Montabello – Advisor, Dual Credit
Yanet Nunez – Counselor, Student Affairs
Christy Babcock – Counselor/Case Manager, Students Affairs
John Parsons – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Miranda Striluk – Assistant Professor, Biology
Tyler Brown – Assistant Vice President, Enrollment & Student Services
Melissa Shinn – Director, Health Programs, Workforce Development
Cheryl Sanchez – Teacher, Adult Education
Brandon Martinez – HVAC/Buildings Systems Mechanic, Maintenance
Melanie Gier – Simulation Faculty, Registered Nursing
Mel Henderson – Program Director/Instructor, Occupational Therapy Assistant
Michael Maglaughlin – Senior Analyst of Budget & Financial Reporting, Budget Office
Emily Thomas – Advisor, Dual Credit
Darrin Snider – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Tom Turco – Adjunct Faculty, Health Sciences
Lindley Ballen – Adjunct Faculty, Biology
Tim Schuh – Instructor, Unmanned Aerial Systems
Julia Broderick – Adjunct Faculty, Sociology
Jordan Mendoza – Senior Research Analyst, Institutional Effectiveness
Jacky Turpin – Teacher, Adult Education
Josh Teuscher – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Kevin Graham – Teacher, Law Enforcement
Frank Finney – Teacher, Law Enforcement
10-Year Work Anniversary Employees
Carolyn McFarland – Industry Teacher, Certified Nursing Assistant Preparation
Brad Watkins – Commercial Vehicles Shop Assistant, Heavy Equipment Technician
Beth Parker – Teaching Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant Preparation
Mary Melkonian – Senior Coordinator, Student Accounts
Courtney Colby Bond – Dean, Center for Teaching and Learning
Doug Rapley – Department Chair, Education
Maia Kelley – Associate Professor, Mathematics
Tim Curry – Associate Professor, Exercise Science
Scott Law – Instructor, Automotive Service
Laura Bosch – Teaching Faculty, Math Solutions Center
Dan Schults – Assistant Professor, Horticulture
Toni Schmeling – Adjunct Teaching Faculty, Math Solutions Center
Rosemary Miller – Adjunct Faculty, History
Mike Fisher – Assistant Professor, Chemistry
Joel Gladd – Department Chair, Integrated Studies
Sandy Roseburg – Adjunct Faculty, English
Shawna Donahue – Adjunct Faculty, Art
April VanDeGrift – Adjunct Faculty, Art
Jerry Stafford – Program Coordinator, HVAC Apprenticeship
Oster Hernandez – Senior Transition Coordinator, Dual Credit
Lindsey Zahller – Manager I, Student Advising & Success
15-Year Work Anniversary Employees
Autumn Brackley – Senior IT Program Manager, Enterprise Application Service
Kim Bettencourt – Assistant Director, Admissions & One Stop
Luis Caloca – Dean, Admissions & One Stop
Christian Purvis Aldrich – Professor, English
Andrea Ascuena – Professor, English
Heather Schoenherr – Professor, Psychology
Cathy Carson – Professor, Mathematics
Domingo Garcia – Maintenance Craftsman, Maintenance
Reggie Jayne – Adjunct Faculty, History
Steve Lysne – Assistant Professor, Biology
Mark Westcott – Director, User Services
Susan Aydelotte – Professor, Mathematics
Michelle Bennett – Adjunct Faculty, Communication
Bryan Krouse – Assistant Professor, Geography
Rhonna Krouse – Associate Professor, Health Science
Scott Straub – Assistant Professor, Education
Karen Brown – Associate Professor, Art History
Brenda Fisher – Department Chair, Art
Collin Hughes – Adjunct Faculty, Humanities
Hollie Leavitt – Professor, Biology
Jim Poston – Adjunct Faculty, Theater Arts
Mike Robinson - Assistant Professor, Philosophy
George Tucker – Adjunct Faculty, Math
Charles Dickinson – Professor, Sociology
Jim Kusterer – Adjunct Faculty, Chemistry
Kim Scheffer – Adjunct Faculty, Connecting With Ideas
Amanda Willoughby – Adjunct Faculty, Math
The Annual CWI Horticulture Plant Sale is May 1
Spruce up your yard and garden this spring with plants grown and cared for by College of Western Idaho (CWI) Horticulture Technology students. All are invited to attend their annual plant sale to purchase annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, and more.
CWI Horticulture Plant Sale
Wednesday, May 1
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
CWI Horticulture (HORT) greenhouses in Boise
Offerings include, but are not limited to:
Flowering annuals for beds, containers, hanging baskets, and cut flowers
Vegetables
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Cucumbers, Squash
Herbs
Basil, Thyme, Parsley, Culinary Sage, Lavender
Contact Agricultural Sciences Department Chair, Andrea Schumaker, at andrewaschumaker@cwi.edu with questions.
Two Career Fairs Await CWI Students in April
College of Western Idaho (CWI) and the Work-Based Learning Center are hosting two upcoming career fairs for students interested in employment in the social sciences, industrial, and technical fields. Work-Based Learning Center meeting will be available sharing tips and tricks to help students land the job they have studied for.
Pro Tip: Bring your resume and dress professionally.
Enhance your professional networking connection with local employers seeking to hire CWI students. Gain knowledge on career opportunities, job openings, employee benefits, pay scales, and much more. Take the time to invest in your future now, and explore opportunities offered locally and nationally.
Social Science Career Fair
Thursday, April 4
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Student Commons
Industrial and Technical Career Fair
Wednesday, April 17
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC), Lobby
Those with questions should reach out to Roberto Trinidad at robertotrinidad@cwi.edu or call at 208.562.2150.
Registration for Fall 2024
For those starting out or starting something big — register for classes this fall at College of Western Idaho (CWI)! With a variety of resources, flexible course options, and caring instructors, CWI is here to help you on your pathway to success every step of the way.
Here are the details!
Fall 2024 Registration Dates
- Apr 8 – Priority Registration Opens (continuing students)
- Apr 15 – Open Registration Begins (all students)
- Aug 10 – Admission Deadline
- Aug 19 – Classes Begin
- Aug 21 – Registration Deadline
Continuing Students
Get first pick of the classes, schedule, and instructors you want this fall during priority registration, now open for current students.
- Be sure to meet with your advisor prior to registering. Students can register any time on or after their assigned registration time.
- Registration times are assigned based on cumulative credits earned. Check myCWI and your student email for your assigned time.
- Continuing students are considered those who enrolled and attended classes any semester since Fall 2021.
- Dual credit students will register during open registration.
New Students
Open registration for all students, including new and returning, begins Monday, April 15.
New to CWI? The Fall 2024 admission deadline for 16-week class session is Saturday, Aug. 10. All, new, degree, and non-degree seeking students must apply to CWI prior to registering for classes.
Non-Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once admitted to CWI, new, non-degree seeking students may immediately register for classes.
Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once admitted to CWI, new, degree-seeking students must participate in New Student Orientation and meet with their advisor prior to registering for classes.
Additional Information
- Visit Cost & Aid to learn more about options for students in need of financial assistance including federal financial aid, scholarships, loans, and Work-Study.
- Watch for emails and texts with next steps for the completion of the registration process. Contact One Stop Student Services or your Advisor with any questions or concerns.
- For those interested in learning about other dates and deadlines for Fall 2024 semester, including 8-week class sessions, please visit CWI's academic calendar.
Plan for Your Future at Spring 2025 Registration Party
Stuck trying to figure out what classes to register for this spring? You’re in luck! College of Western Idaho (CWI) is hosting a two-day Spring 2025 Registration Party to provide support and help students sign up for classes ahead of the spring semester.
The Registration Party invites students to get their questions answered and class load finalized. CWI advisors will be around to meet one-on-one with students to review their academic progress and goals. They will also be handing out treats to those who register or have already registered for fall classes (while supplies last).
Tuesday, Nov. 12
10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
Wednesday, Nov. 13
10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get questions answered and your classes picked out before the end of the semester. For those with questions, contact Lindsey Zahller at 208.562.2354 or lindseyzahller@cwi.edu.
Help Lead ASCWI in 2024-2025!
Are you ready to make a difference on campus? The Associated Students of College of Western Idaho (ASCWI) is seeking passionate and dedicated students to join our team for the 2024-2025 academic year!
Being an officer in student government is an incredible opportunity to:
- Have a direct impact on the student body
- Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills
- Help shape the future of the College
We are excited to fill the following positions:
- Chief of Staff
- Treasurer
- Public Relations Officer
- Senators (4)
Application Details:
- Applications open: Monday, April 8
- Applications close: Wednesday, May 8, at 5 p.m.
Ready to Apply? Complete the application by visiting Student Government.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact Sitlaly Escamilla at sitlalyescamilla@cwi.edu.
Health Programs Application Deadlines
Are you interested in a career in healthcare? College of Western Idaho (CWI) has a variety of Health Science programs available to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career in this growing industry.
Applications are now open and must be submitted by their respective deadlines. All programs listed below are competitive entry and require a supplemental application process. Visit individual program pages linked below for information, application instructions specific to each program, and assistance.
PROGRAM APPLICATION PERIODS
Opening Dates
- Surgical First Assistant – Sept. 2
- Practical Nursing – Sept. 27
- Surgical Technology – Nov. 1
- Occupational Therapy Assistant – February 2025
- Physical Therapist Assistant – March 2025
Deadlines
- Registered Nursing – Oct. 25
- Practical Nursing – Nov. 1
- Surgical First Assistant – Dec. 13
Have questions or need help?
- Current students are encouraged to meet with their Advisor to discuss options.
- Visit CWI's Health Sciences page for more information and program contact information.
Healthcare Career Opportunities
Careers in the healthcare field have some of the greatest need as our communities continue to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations; this increase is expected to result in about 2 million new jobs over the decade. In addition to new jobs from growth, opportunities arise from the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently. About 1.9 million openings each year, on average, are projected to come from growth and replacement needs.”
2024 Commencement Seeking Volunteers
The 2024 Commencement for College of Western Idaho (CWI) is right around the corner! The ceremony, held at ExtraMile Arena in Boise, will take place on Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m. Employees are encouraged to share in the success of CWI students by volunteering to help staff the event.
Time slots are based on assignment and volunteers are welcome to stay for the entire ceremony or leave when duties are complete. The available shifts are:
- 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
- 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
To volunteer, email registrar@cwi.edu by Monday, April 22, at 5 p.m. and indicate the shift you would like to work. While volunteer times cannot be guaranteed, preferences will be taken into consideration.
Thank you to all who are willing and able to help at this event. Commencement would not be possible with you!
2024 Grad Fest – Let’s Celebrate Our Grads!
Congratulations, 2024 graduates! The time has come to celebrate your accomplishments and prepare to graduate! Gather your friends, family, and classmates, and plan to join us for a good time and good food as we kick off the countdown to College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) 2024 Commencement Ceremony with Grad Fest, Friday, May 3.
Grad Fest
Friday, May 3
4:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
The event will feature:
- Food from BIG Daddy’s Barbeque
- Photo ops courtesy of Alpha-Lit
- Caps, gowns, and CWI swag for purchase from the CWI Bookstore
- Cap decorating
- Giveaways and grand prize drawings
- Giant yard games
- Inflatable obstacle course
- Caricature Artists & Face paintings
- Music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll
- and more!
CWI’s Workforce Development will also host a ceremony for Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing apprenticeship graduates, where there will be guest speakers and students will be presented with their certificates of completion. The certificate ceremonies will be held at Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) in room 102E.
Electrical Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
HVAC Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Plumbing Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
5:00 – 5:30 p.m.
GED Completion
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 105
6 – 7 p.m.
Nuestra Celebración
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 122
5:30 – 6:45 p.m.
We can’t wait to celebrate you and look forward to seeing you there with your friends, family, and support system!
The event is free and open to the entire CWI community.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact Amber Eubanks at ambereubanks@cwi.edu. Visit CWI's graduation page for more information about the 2024 Commencement Ceremony.
Cyber Summer Camp Open for Registration
Do you know a high school student interested in breaking into the cybersecurity industry? Join College of Western Idaho (CWI) for Cyber Summer Camp on July 22 – 26!
This week-long, daytime event is aimed at teaching high school students the basics of computing, cybersecurity, and information technology through a hands-on, fun, and engaging experience. Students will learn about CWI Dual Credit opportunities, Cyber Blue Teams, operating systems, gamified cybersecurity education, and computer hardware.
Cyber Summer Camp
July 22 – 26
9 a.m – 3 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), room 1425
Cost: $200 per student
Register for Cyber Summer Camp
If you are interested in the scholarship opportunity for this course, please contact Sara via e-mail at SaraHoyt@cwi.edu prior to registration.
CWI Computer Science and Information Technology faculty and students are needed to assist during these week-long camps, held during the summer. To volunteer, please email cyberdefense@cwi.edu.
Learn more about Computer Science and Information Technology from CWI.
View Work by CWI Studio Art Graduates at Boise State University Gallery
Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Studio Art graduates at the Emerging Visions exhibit at Boise State University.
CWI’s Studio Art program promotes the development of artistic skills and practice, craftsmanship, and aesthetic discernment. The Associate of Arts degree in Studio Art provides students with a foundational understanding of the history of visual culture, opportunities to grow as artists, and prepares students who are interested in transferring to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree in Art.
Emerging Visions – Opening Reception
Tuesday, April 16
5 – 7 p.m.
Boise State University
Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
Emerging Visions – Exhibit
April 16 – May 5
7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Boise State University
Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
Emerging Visions features artwork by 2024 Studio Art graduates:
- Jared Barnes
- Christina Borrowman
- David Bru
- Rya Buckingham
- Johanna Contreras
- Katelyn Hammons
- Erika Leos
- Brandon Luke
- Mila Maes
- Maggi McCormick
- Macie McKay
- Harrison Rehl
- Samantha Romine
- Mia Salinas
The exhibit will run through May 5 and can be viewed between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily. In addition, students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to an opening reception Tuesday, April 16. The event is free and open to the public.
Contact Goran Fazil at goranfazil@cwi.edu to learn more about the College’s Studio Art program or this year’s exhibit.
