CWI News – April 28, 2023

For as early as Michelle Wooton can remember, she had wanted to be a teacher. After graduating from Boise State University with a Psychology degree in May 2018, Wooton was able to achieve her dream as she began teaching at an alternative school in West Ada School District.

However, after the COVID-19 pandemic struck, working in education became a struggle for Wooton. As much as she loved teaching, she knew she needed a change.

“The Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) was just the change I needed,” Wooton said.

Wooton’s friend, a Speech-Language Pathologist, introduced her to the world of Occupational Therapy. (OT) After doing her own research, Wooton knew it was the perfect fit because she was able to use the creativity and passion she had for teaching and channel it into OT.

“I am enrolled in CWI’s OTA Program to help people get back to their daily occupations the way they want to. I want to inspire change in people in a holistic way and be there for them when the light bulb moment goes off that makes them realize, ‘I can do this.’”

As Wooton finishes up her first year in the program, she has been able to reflect on all she has been able to learn and discover about herself. She has found out this work is a true passion of hers.

“This program is absolutely amazing. I could not have asked for a better experience. Although the workload can look like a lot, it is super doable and actually very interesting, so it makes me want to learn and do the readings and coursework.”

CWI's OTA Program utilizes a problem-based theoretical approach, fostering problem-solving through solid critical inquiry and assisting the development of a solid foundation in occupational-centered professional skills. Courses combine didactic, lab, service learning, and fieldwork experiences.

As the activities director for a local assisted living facility, Wooton can attest to how well the program is preparing her for the real world once she graduates. She uses the tools and lessons she has learned within the residents’ daily routines and activities and constantly thinks, ‘How is this related to what she is learning in class?’”

“Through this program, I have realized how much change we can make in the everyday life of people of all ages and disabilities. OT is a wonderful career for anyone looking to help people and make a change in their everyday lives. I have seen firsthand through fieldwork how rewarding and helpful it is.”

The skills Wooton learned through the OTA Program are not only used at school or her job at the assisted living facility, but she is also able to use them in her everyday life.

Wooton also works as a server at PF Chang’s where she meets different people every day. At one of her shifts a few weeks ago, she had a family of four come in, and she noticed one of the kids had headphones and was on an iPad. Wooton thought to herself he may have been on the autism spectrum, which the mother later confirmed.

After dropping off drinks for the table, the mother apologized to Wooton and said her son has sensory issues with the sauces and did not think they could stay to eat there. Wooton was grateful the mother was open and shared she was currently going to school to be an OTA. She mentioned she has learned about sensory processing issues with food and would love to try to help the family through a meal.

The mother was up for it.

After walking them through the menu and explaining what foods may be okay and ways she and the other staff could personalize the plates to help the child’s sensory issues, Wooton was able to help find an entrée for him.

“Once the entrées came out, I put his sauce on the side. The family all dipped their chopsticks into the sauce and tried it, and then eventually the son did too because he saw them do it! He obviously did not like it, but I thought it was a huge step for him to even try it. The mother told me he had other sensory issues, so I offered to turn the lights down lower and lower the music in their part of the restaurant. By the end, the son even had his headphones off and wasn't looking at the iPad but was engaging with the family.”

Toward the end of the meal, the mother, nearly in tears, shared with Wooton she had never had a server be so kind and caring towards her son. The mother expressed interest to learn more about OT and would speak to a pediatrician to see if they could get a referral for an evaluation.

“It was so cool and shows that OT really is in everyday activities — even just going out to eat with family! We can be advocates for the profession anywhere. I never would have thought I would have an experience like this at my serving job."

Wooton feels grateful to be able to help those around her and can’t wait to begin her career doing this type of work every day. She enjoys working with pediatrics and geriatrics, so she is unsure of what path she will be on once she graduates from the program — but she calls that the “beauty of OT.”

“There are many different opportunities out there where you can find a job you love in whatever you want to do!”

While Wooton’s original career dream may look a little different than a few years ago, she is happy to have found a new calling where she can still impact the lives of others— even in the most unlikely of places.

“Through this program, I have learned I have true grit. I can push myself to my limits, and then a little bit more to get where I want to be.”

For those with questions or interested in learning more about CWI’s OTA program, visit the OTA program page, or contact Program Director and Instructor, Mel Henderson, at melhenderson@cwi.edu.

Applications for the Fall 2023 OTA Program are open through April 30, 2023. Visit the Health Sciences page to learn more.

Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) student, Khanh Dang, who won the 2023 Connections Project’s Juried Art Exhibition! Dang’s submission, a painting titled, Flesh and Raw, was selected by juror, Cassandra Schiffler, the Arts and Culture Coordinator for the City of Meridian and a regular exhibiting artist at Capitol Contemporary Gallery in Boise.

Dang’s entry was chosen out of 22 students who submitted a total of 50 pieces of work.

Dang has been a student at CWI for the last two and a half years, where he graduated with his associate degree in Studio Art in May 2022. He is currently a non-degree-seeking student and hopes to earn his certification in the College’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management Program because he believes it will help him with his goal of owning a successful art business.

When Dang entered the Juried Art Exhibition, he did not have any expectations — he just wanted to showcase his work. When he found out he won he said he was surprised, because he saw of all the other talented pieces of art presented in the competition. It was an exciting moment for him.

“This means a lot to me not only as a student but also as an artist,” Dang said. “I have been learning and working as an artist for a long time. My hard work getting recognition means a lot to me.”

Dang, who is deaf, hopes to continue to receive accolades, hone his skills, and one day build that art business he has dreamed about with his partner so he can spread deaf awareness around the art world.

Flesh and Raw

Khanh Dang

“I have always been interested in the beauty of the human body, embracing all the shapes, all the texture, all the expressions is one of my artistic goals, especially in this project. Raw and Fresh presents all the types of raw or fresh ingredients such as raw beef, pork and fish meat, or fresh lettuce and lemon. The naked woman is also a part of the ingredients, she was raw, she was fresh, she was naive and inexperienced, she has not yet to be “cooked” yet. She has yet to be ready for this world of consumption.”

Dang received a $150 cash prize for his winning entry.

Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Adjunct Faculty, Stephen Michas, who was named Faculty of Distinction for March 2023!

Michas has been part of the CWI community for the last six and a half years where he has taught courses ranging from Biology to Anatomy and Physiology to Math. In addition to CWI, he has taught at Carrington College and Stevens-Henager College in Boise. He is currently also teaching Human Development and Psychology at an online nursing school, Nightingale College.

Michas teaches because he believes it is his personal calling in life and something he has dedicated his life to.

“When I teach, I touch the future by changing the lives of the students I am lucky enough to work with,” Michas said. “I have taught college in Ada County since 2008. Because of this, I frequently run into past students who always greet me with gratitude and positivity. This is an incredible honor for me.”

Many of Michas’ favorite moments at CWI have been his interactions with students, especially the ones where they share with him that what he does makes a difference in their lives and they are able to achieve more through his teachings and guidance.

“Dr. Michas has helped me find a passion for Biology,” said CWI student, Lauren Dean. “I have never enjoyed a class more. I was dreading taking another Biology class because I didn't have a good teacher for my high school biology class, but I would genuinely go to Dr. Michas’ classes just for fun if I could.”

Many of Michas’ students have also noted how he has gone above and beyond for them outside of the classroom. They believe he genuinely cares about his students and wants them to succeed.

“Professor Michas has used a lot of his free time helping me learn Anatomy and Physiology,” said CWI student, Ian Price. “Whenever I did not understand something in his class, he always provided me with constructive feedback about the material. He even found time to fill out a letter of recommendation for the Nursing Program here at CWI when I was not his student — it really shows his dedication to student success!”

“This instructor is open to helping his students at any point and makes sure that they know he is there if they need any help,” said CWI student, Hannah Deuel. “He is by far the best instructor I have ever had whether in grade school or college — I am confident all his other students would agree.”

One of Michas favorite memories at CWI is when KTVB visited one of his Anatomy and Physiology lectures in early 2020 to do a story about his viral act of kindness. A student of Michas’s had asked if she could bring her young son to class because she had no one to watch him. Michas not only said yes, but he brought the child crayons and made a coloring book full of biology content for him as he sat through the lecture.

The student later posted about the kind deed on Twitter. At the time, the post received more than 158,000 likes and was shared more than 27,000 times.

"To me, doing something nice for a kid is normal," Michas told KTVB in 2020.

Through CWI, Michas has had the honor of teaching and interacting with a bright and engaging set of students. He is grateful he gets to teach a wide diverse set of courses that has presented him the opportunity to share the many different facets of his knowledge and wisdom with those at CWI.

“CWI empowers students to get closer to the best versions of themselves, move closer to self-actualization, self-reliance, and authentic responsibility so they can pursue their dreams, and also enjoy life's greatest honor which is giving back,” Michas said.

Michas holds a Bachelor of Science in Premedical Studies, a Master of Science degree in General Psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Psychology.

Michas grew up in Oxfordshire, England, and moved to Boise when he was in junior high school with his parents and brothers and has lived in the Treasure Valley ever since. Michas also has an adopted son who has recently gotten engaged and is excited for him to start a family soon.

Outside of teaching, Michas is a concert pianist and has performed numerous solo recitals and ensemble performances around the community. He also uses his talents to perform at nursing and retirement homes, as well as the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Michas is also a tennis player, wine specialist, and mandala creation artist.

As the state of Idaho’s largest online fundraiser is set to kick off Monday, May 1, College of Western Idaho (CWI) Foundation is excited to announce it will take part in Idaho Gives to raise money for students and resources around the College.

Idaho Gives is a program from the Idaho Nonprofit Center that takes place every spring designed to bring communities around the state together to raise money and awareness for Idaho nonprofits. Since the inaugural event in 2013, Idahoans have raised nearly $20 million for participating organizations, one donation at a time.

Money raised for CWI Foundation will help purchase a cap and gown for a graduate, stock the CWI Food Pantries, fund the CWI Student Emergency Fund, create scholarships, and more.

A donation to the Foundation will help the College’s mission of affordable and accessible education to students which will advance the local and global workforce.

The Foundation is looking forward to the impact participation in Idaho Gives will have on the lives of students around campus.

“CWI Foundation is proud to be a part of Idaho Gives and the ability to help change the lives of the people in Idaho,” said Foundation Director, Mike Jensen. “Please join me in making supporting non-profits in the great state of Idaho.”

Idaho Gives will launch Monday, May 1, and run through Thursday, May 4. Donors may choose to make a gift to one of the nearly 650 non-profits registered for Idaho Gives, including the CWI Foundation.

For those interested in learning more about Idaho Gives, what the funds may go towards at the College, or making a donation, please visit CWI Foundation’s Idaho Gives page.

Donate to CWI Foundation through Idaho Gives

College of Western Idaho's (CWI) 2023 Commencement ceremony is right around the corner! The ceremony, held at ExtraMile Arena in Boise, will take place on Friday, May 12, at 7 p.m. Employees are encouraged to share in the success of CWI students by volunteering to help staff the event.

Volunteer times are based on assignment. Volunteers are welcome to stay for the entire ceremony or leave when volunteer duties are complete. The volunteer shifts are as follows:

• 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 24, at 5 p.m. In your email, please indicate the shift you would like to work. Although 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!

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.

Let’s get started!

Important Fall 2023 Dates

• Priority Registration Opens – Monday, April 10
• Open Registration Opens – Monday, April 17
• Admission Deadline for 16-Week Class Session – Saturday, Aug. 12
• Registration Deadline for 16-Week Class Session – Friday, Aug. 18
• First Day of Classes for 16-Week Class Session – Monday, Aug. 21

Continuing Students

Priority registration at CWI for the Fall 2023 semester for 16-week class session begins Monday, April 10. Priority registration allows continuing students a chance to enroll in classes ahead of open registration, helping students stay on track for graduation.

Following are a few tips 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 2020.
• Dual credit students will register during open registration.

New Students

Open registration for all students, including new and returning, begins Monday, April 17.

New to CWI? The Fall 2023 admission deadline for 16-week class session is Saturday, Aug. 12. All, new, degree, and non-degree seeking students must apply to CWI prior to registering for classes. Visit Applying to CWI for a complete list of steps to get started.

Non-Degree Seeking

• Upon completion of the application process and once accepted to CWI, new, non-degree seeking students may immediately register for classes.

Degree Seeking

• Upon completion of the application process and once accepted to CWI, new, degree-seeking students must participate in New Student Orientation prior to registering for classes.

Course offerings can be viewed in Student Planning for all continuing and returning students.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Contact Financial Aid at financialaid@cwi.edu to learn more about options available for students in need of financial assistance.

The scholarship application period for the 2023-2024 academic year is now open. Apply for a variety of scholarships through a single application. Students interested in applying for scholarships must have the CWI admission application completed, be accepted, and have student account login information.

Students are encouraged to watch for emails and texts with important next steps for the completion of the registration process. Contact One Stop Student Services or your Advisor with any questions or concerns.

Fall registration for the 16-week class session will be open through Friday, Aug. 18, and classes will begin Monday, Aug. 21.

Register for Fall 2023 Classes

For those interested in learning about other dates and deadlines for Fall 2023 semester, including 8-week class session, please visit CWI's academic calendar.