CWI News – April 4, 2025
In the Spotlight
Valley Regional Transit has partnered with College of Western Idaho (CWI) to promote the new "What is Mechatronics" recruitment campaign, wrapping the exterior of a city bus with eye-catching graphics, imagery, and messaging. Students in the Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program will play a critical role in filling high-tech jobs across the Treasure Valley and Idaho.
President's Message
Greetings CWI Faculty and Staff,
Welcome back, and I hope you had a restful and rejuvenating spring break. As we step into the final stretch of the semester, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for your hard work and dedication to our students.
I was thrilled to hear the exciting news last week – CWI has officially received the green light from the Department of Education to offer a new Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Business Administration. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for our students and meeting the needs of our local workforce. Thank you to Provost Denise Aberle-Cannata, Dean Kris Smerick, Chair Richard Sotto, their teams and everyone else who made this achievement possible.
In addition, I want to highlight an important upcoming event. CWI Giving Day is on April 10, and it is a fantastic opportunity for faculty, staff and our community to show their support for students and programs. The Giving Day site is now live, allowing you to make an early impact before the big day. You can choose to support a student club, a school, or another area that is meaningful to you. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and helps strengthen our programs.
Thank you again for all that you do, and let’s make this last part of the semester a great success.
Best regards,
CWI in the News
Idaho Business Review: Final approval granted for new bachelor’s degree in business for Nampa school
KIVI: Emerging art movement “Hearts Across the Valley” will begin popping up in Idaho
Idaho Mountain Express: ‘We write to taste life twice'
News Highlights
Giving Day is April 10 – Join Us to Power Student Potential
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is building momentum — and now is the opportunity to be part of it. On Thursday, April 10, the College will celebrate its third annual Giving Day, a 24-hour event that brings together alumni, donors, faculty, staff, and community members to support the students, programs, and initiatives powering the future of Idaho’s workforce.
With a mission built on affordability, accessibility, and employability, CWI empowers over 30,000 students each year with high-quality, life-changing educational opportunities. Giving Day provides a chance for the community to champion these students by investing in the tools, scholarships, and support systems that help them thrive.
“CWI is thrilled to launch our third Giving Day,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “As the largest higher education institution in the state, CWI is proud to deliver affordable, high-quality, and empowering educational opportunities designed to change the lives of our more than 30,000 students. CWI Giving Day is an opportunity for you to see and support the amazing work of our students and faculty.”
Whether you give $5 or $500, every contribution on Giving Day fuels student success. Online access makes it easy to support areas of personal or professional passion — from scholarships and academic programs to student clubs and innovation.
“Thank you for believing in students like me,” said Ali Chick, a first-year student in the Agriculture Business, Leadership, and Education program. “Your investment in our future is making a real difference. I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity.” Read more about Ali’s experience in her feature story.
Giving Day also advances the College’s Powering the Treasure Valley campaign — CWI’s bold effort to expand its reach and resources across the region. It’s a movement that underscores how collective generosity can have a profound impact on students’ futures and the prosperity of Idaho communities.
“The Foundation Board is deeply committed to the belief that education has the power to transform lives,” said CWI Foundation Board President, Mike Peña. “Through this support, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve success in their chosen careers and build a solid foundation for their future.”
CWI Giving Day officially kicks off Thursday, April 10, at 12 a.m. MST and runs for 24 hours. To participate, visit the Giving Day page to donate and share the opportunity with friends, family, and coworkers. Every gift — and every share — helps inspire, uplift, and power the next generation of learners.
For questions or more information, contact the CWI Foundation at foundation@cwi.edu.
Annual CWI Horticulture Plant Sale – May 7
Spruce up your yard and garden this spring with plants grown and cared for by College of Western Idaho (CWI) Horticulture Technology students. The entire CWI community is invited to attend the program's annual plant sale to purchase annuals, perennials, floral hanging baskets, vegetables, herbs, and more.
CWI HORTICULTURE PLANT SALE
Wednesday, May 7
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
CWI Horticulture (HORT), East greenhouses next to the Idaho Firewise Garden in Boise
Offerings include, but are not limited to:
- Flowering annuals for beds, containers, hanging baskets, and cut flowers
- Vegetables – variety of tomatoes, peppers, eggplants
- Herbs – perennial varieties
Bring your own box or container to bring your plants home in. A limited amount of boxes will be available. Cashiers will accept cash, card, or check. Parking is limited.
Questions? Contact Agricultural Sciences Department Chair, Andrea Schumaker, at andreaschumaker@cwi.edu.
Andy Del Toro Obeso’s Mission to Build a Better World
When Andy Del Toro Obeso enrolled at College of Western Idaho (CWI), he never imagined he would one day be recognized nationally for his academic and leadership achievements. Now in his second year studying Political Science, Del Toro Obeso has been named a 2025 Coca-Cola Academic Team Bronze Scholar by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), an honor that includes a $1,000 scholarship and a commemorative medallion.
Born in Nampa and raised in Boise to immigrant parents from Sinaloa, Mexico, Del Toro Obeso grew up facing immense challenges — from systemic disadvantage to mental health struggles that led to multiple hospitalizations. “It felt like the whole world was against me,” he said. “Despite it all — the overwhelming odds, the illness, the people rooting against me — I kept going.”
A Drive to Create Change
Del Toro Obeso’s journey is defined by resilience and a desire to spark lasting change. “I am determined now, more than ever, to help build a better world — one that makes life better for everyone,” he said. That drive led him to the Political Science program at CWI, a path he believes will help him understand how systems operate and how they can be improved.
“I want to learn how I can help improve society,” he explained. “Learning about the history of politics, not just in the United States but globally, gives me the tools to envision a better future.”
Leading Inside and Outside the Classroom
His dedication to change-making extends beyond the classroom. Del Toro Obeso currently serves as President of CWI’s Beta Sigma Pi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and is the Treasurer of the CWI Soccer Club. He has been involved with the Navegando Mentor program and recognized for his volunteer work with other charitable organizations in the Treasure Valley. His leadership and service efforts were instrumental in his nomination for the Coca-Cola Academic Team, which selects students based on academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement.
“Andy’s journey is both powerful and inspiring,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to support outstanding community college students like him who are working to shape a better world.”
Inspired by Family, Fueled by Purpose
Del Toro Obeso attributes much of his motivation to his mother, who has been a steadfast supporter through his most difficult moments. “She has gone through hell and back,” he shared. “It is because of what the world did to her that I fight every day to ensure this world is reformed.”
His academic success, however, hasn’t come without setbacks. Struggling with depression, social anxiety, and body dysmorphia, Del Toro Obeso found strength through therapy, medication, and a belief in his own potential. “The pain hasn’t decreased. I’m getting stronger,” he said.
Looking Ahead
After graduating in May from CWI with an Associate of Arts degree in Political Science, he plans to continue his education at Boise State University, where he has been accepted into the Honors College. He also currently works as a Project and Administrative Intern Manager at Elevate Empire LLC and aspires to a career in public service or activism, working to reform the very systems that once seemed impossible to overcome.
To new students just beginning their journey, Del Toro Obeso offers heartfelt advice: “Advocate for yourself. Challenge anything and everything. Be open, be involved, and don’t let institutions define your worth. Marginalized or not, you have the power to achieve great things.”
His story is not only one of academic recognition but of defiance against the odds, inspired by family legacy and a revolutionary spirit. “During the Mexican Revolution, my great-grandfather fought with Pancho Villa,” he said. “I have a very big legacy to live up to. That’s what I want to be — a revolutionary.”
Del Toro Obeso’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, determination, community, and education can spark transformation — not just for one student, but for society as a whole.
Passionate about the engines of government? Learn more about Political Science at CWI!
Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Agnes Ma
Join College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Visiting Artist Series in welcoming artist, Agnes Ma! There will be two opportunities to visit with this artist at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB). The first will feature Ma presenting a lecture about her extensive and unique work. The second is Ma hosting a playful, hands-on workshop where attendees will learn how to utilize 3D pens to create funky (or not) forms in Polylactic acid bioplastic (PLA). PLA is manufactured in practically limitless colors that can be easily integrated with found objects as well as materials and techniques of your choice, allowing for maximum play and exploration. Fabricate functional, sculptural, conceptual, or whatever forms with a new medium.
Below is a portion of Ma's bio as written on her artist website:
"Born in the hot, sticky summer of the midwest, Agnes Ma is an Illinois native who relocated to the semi-arid state of Colorado in 2016. She received a BS in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her MFA in Metalwork, Jewelry Design, and Digital Fabrication as well as a Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies from Northern Illinois University. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor in Foundations + Fine Arts at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design.
Agnes has exhibited across the United States and internationally, including at the Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, and the IESA Gallery in Paris, France. She was the 2015-2016 Artist in Residence for Metalwork and Glass at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago, a 2018 Artist-in-Residence at Yellowstone National Park, took part in the Arctic Circle Residency 2023 Spring Expedition, and a 2022-2024 Resident Artist at RedLine Contemporary Art Center. Her work combines traditional craft and modern methods of fabrication to examine the relationship between humans, their surrounding environment, and the complexity of existence."
Read more about Agnas Ma in her BIO.
ARTIST'S LECTURE
Thursday, April 17*
6 – 7 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building, Room 206
CHAIN PLA(Y): CREATING FUNKY FORMS WITH 3D PENS AND PLAY BIOPLASTIC
Friday, April 18*
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building, Room 206
*Rescheduled to April 17– 18 due to illness.
Fall 2025 Registration
What you do this fall could change everything. Fall 2025 registration at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is more than just dates on the calendar — it’s your green light!
Get the skills. Get the support. Get moving.
Important Dates
- April 14 – Priority Registration Begins (continuing students)
- April 21 – Open Registration Begins (all students)
- Aug. 9 – Admission Deadline
- Aug. 15 – Tuition and Fees Due
- Aug. 18 – Classes Begin
Registration Details
Continuing Students
Get first pick of the classes, schedule, and instructors you want this fall during priority registration, open to continuing students.
- Be sure to meet with your advisor prior to registering.
- Class offerings can be viewed in your Self-Service Toolkit in myCWI.
- Visit Registering for Classes for detailed instructions.
- Continuing students are considered those who enrolled and attended classes any semester since Fall 2022.
- Continuing students may 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.
- Dual credit students will register during open registration.
New Students
New to CWI? New degree and non-degree seeking students must apply to CWI prior to registering for classes. Upon completion of the application process and once accepted:
- New non-degree seeking students can immediately register for classes.
- New degree-seeking students must complete New Student Orientation prior to registering for classes.
Next Steps
- Discover your next steps with the Student Checklist for Success.
- Watch for emails and texts with important actions to complete your admission and/or registration process.
- Visit Cost & Aid to learn about federal financial aid, scholarships, loans, and Work-Study.
- Contact One Stop Student Services or your advisor with any questions or concerns.
Classes begin Monday, Aug. 18!
Upcoming Events at the Entrepreneur Lab: April 2025
The Entrepreneur Lab at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is gearing up for an exciting month filled with valuable learning and hands-on experiences. Mark your calendars for these amazing events designed to support your entrepreneurial journey!
Learn QuickBooks at Business Basics
April 11
3 – 4 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NCAB), 100B
Ready to get your finances in order? Join us for a deep dive into QuickBooks at our Business Basics event. This session will cover everything from setting up your account to mastering key features that can streamline your accounting process. Whether you’re new to QuickBooks or just want a refresher, this event is perfect for entrepreneurs looking to stay on top of their business finances.
First Steps Workshop — Dutch Bros
April 16
Noon –1:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NCAB), 100B
Treasure Valley Dutch Bros. Servin’ it up in Nampa, Caldwell, Meridian and Eagle Idaho! COFFEE IS WHAT WE DO, BUT IT IS NOT WHO WE ARE. Here at Dutch Bros, we live by our main core values. One cannot be sacrificed for another. All must work together to provide the best experience possible. We may be a coffee company, but we are in the relationship business. Come and listen to Andrew & Shayna talk about their start and successful growth!
Moss Greenhouses Field Trip
April 18
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Moss Greenhouses Inc.
269 S. 300 E., Jerome, ID 83338
Join us for a behind-the-scenes field trip to Moss Greenhouses in Jerome, Idaho! Get a personal tour from the inspiring CEO, Jennifer Moss, who founded this innovative business and has been featured in TIME Magazine. Whether you’re a horticulture student or just love the beauty of plants, you won’t want to miss this exclusive opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s best. Lunch will be provided.
Transportation Options
- You can drive yourself or take advantage of our transportation options. We’ll meet at NMEC at 7:15 a.m. and leave 8 a.m. sharp!
- Please check your ticket type for transportation details, and we’ll send you a waiver if you choose the transport option (due April 9).
Lastly, we’re thrilled to announce Ask The Expert, starting May 1. Stop by the Entrepreneur Lab to speak with a local expert for exclusive mentoring in whatever entrepreneurial idea you’re working on.
These events are designed to help you gain new skills, make valuable connections, and explore exciting opportunities. We can’t wait to see you there! Stay tuned for more updates and event details!
March 2025 Recap: Entrepreneur Lab at CWI
March was an exciting month at the College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab, filled with events and opportunities designed to spark entrepreneurial spirit and provide the tools for success. Whether starting from scratch or refining an existing business, there was something for every stage of the journey.
First Steps with Ryan Stewart
On March 12, the Entrepreneur Lab hosted the First Steps workshop featuring seasoned entrepreneur Ryan Stewart. He shared insights from building a diverse business portfolio in Middleton, Idaho, including a franchised tire shop, car washes, and Moxie Java. His perspective on balancing entrepreneurship with family life provided valuable guidance for aspiring business owners.
Field Trip: Unbound at Meridian Library
On March 21, a group visit to Unbound at the Meridian Library offered participants a look at cutting-edge resources and skill workshops in marketing, coding, and business development. The experience allowed attendees to learn from experts and engage directly with innovative tools available in the local community.
Cohorts Starting Soon
New cohorts are launching soon, creating fresh opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and advance their business ventures. Don’t wait to register as space is limited!
Thank you to all who participated in March events at the Entrepreneur Lab. The month was filled with inspiration, and continued support for local entrepreneurs remains a priority. Stay tuned for future updates and opportunities.
Explore Trades at Apprenticeship Open House
Join us to explore in-demand careers and training available through College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Workforce Development's Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Apprenticeship programs. The Apprenticeship Open House is a great opportunity to talk with instructors, students, and employers, ask questions, and learn more about a career in these in-demand fields.
APPRENTICESHIP OPEN HOUSE
Tuesday, April 29
5 – 7 p.m.
Canyon County Center (CYNC), Room 152
Apprenticeship programs at CWI allow students to earn a living while completing training in their desired careers. Classes are taught online and in-person, providing flexibility as students learn the skills for today’s workforce. Once students complete their apprenticeship program, there are multiple areas of focus that they may choose in each industry.
These four-year apprenticeship programs prepare students for the journeyman test to become a licensed Electrician, HVAC Technician, or Plumber. Students will learn and work with industry experts inside and outside the classroom for on-the-job training.
For those with questions or in need of more information about the Open House or Apprenticeship programs, please contact 208.562.2700 or wd@cwi.edu.
Electrical ApprenticeshipHVAC ApprenticeshipPlumbing Apprenticeship
College of Western Idaho Board of Trustees Names Reames as New Board Chair
The Board of Trustees of College of Western Idaho (CWI) nominated Jim Reames as the new Board Chair during their meeting in January. Reames brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing the mission of the college and supporting student success.
"I am honored to take on this leadership role and look forward to working with my fellow trustees, faculty, staff, and community partners to ensure that CWI continues to provide high-quality education and workforce development opportunities," said Reames.
Reames has served on the Board of Trustees since 2021 and has played an important role in initiatives that have strengthened academic programs, expanded student resources, and fostered partnerships with local businesses. As Chair, he will focus on enhancing accessibility, promoting innovation, and strengthening community engagement.
"We are excited for Chair Reames to lead the Board as we navigate new opportunities at CWI," said CWI President Gordon Jones.
Additionally, Trustee Nicole Bradshaw accepted the nomination of Vice-Chair and Molly Lenty, after serving her four-year term as Chair, is the Treasurer and Secretary.
During Lenty’s tenure as Chair, the College achieved several milestones, including approval to launch a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business Administration, progress on campus development projects, hiring current President Gordon Jones, and six consecutive semesters of enrollment growth.
CWI’s Board of Trustees comprises of five volunteers elected at large from within Ada and Canyon Counties for staggered, four-year terms.
College of Western Idaho Receives Final Approval to Launch New Bachelor of Applied Science, Business Administration Degree
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is proud to announce it has received approval from the U.S. Department of Education to offer a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Business Administration, providing a new opportunity for students looking to advance their careers.
This degree is designed to help students take the next step into leadership and management roles. The program offers a seamless pathway for career advancement, empowering students to develop the business skills and education needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Classes are set to begin during the Fall 2025 semester.
"Launching CWI’s first bachelor’s degree will open new opportunities for students — at community college pricing” said CWI President Gordon Jones.
Students will acquire practical skills in business operations, strategic planning, leadership, and financial management. Whether aspiring to transition into management, move into leadership, or launch a business, the degree provides the essential tools for people to thrive in their careers.
Visit Business Administration to learn more about how you can level up your Associate of Applied Science degree with this new Bachelor of Applied Science degree.
