CWI News – Aug. 29, 2025
News Highlights
CWI Alumnus Gives Back as Business Owner & Foundation Board Leader
College of Western Idaho (CWI) alumnus, Jose Magdaleno Nava, has built a life defined by perseverance, hard work, and the courage to pursue new opportunities. Nava went from living paycheck to paycheck to a business owner and member of the CWI Foundation Board of Directors, his story reflects the transformative power of education.
Born and raised in Idaho, Nava began working right after high school to support himself. “I met my wife in 1996, we married in 1997, and we had to work two or three jobs just to make ends meet,” he shared. For years, life was a constant juggle between jobs and providing for his young family.
One day, a broken water heater changed everything. “I kept thinking, ‘Why can’t I just hire someone to do this for me?’” Nava recalled. That moment sparked the realization that he needed more stability, more opportunity, and a career path that could provide for his family long term. Shortly after, he made the life-changing decision to go back to school. In 2012, Nava graduated with an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting from CWI, walking in the spring commencement ceremony the following year. Like many non-traditional students, his path wasn’t easy. As a stay-at-home dad, he faced health challenges, financial struggles, and even considered leaving school when his wife lost her job. Encouragement from his wife and a supportive professor pushed him to finish. “They both had my back,” Nava said. “Without them, I don’t think I would have completed my degree.”
For the first time, Nava secured a stable job in his field, no longer living paycheck to paycheck. He worked for the same company for nearly a decade before a new opportunity presented itself: a small bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation business in Nampa. Nava first joined the team, then just months later, was offered the chance to buy the business. After careful discussions with his wife, he took a leap of faith. Today, Nava is in his third year as the owner of Affordable Tax Prep & Bookkeeping Services LLC, where he provides accessible financial services to the community. True to the name of his business, affordability is central to his mission. “There are times when a client walks in and leaves with free advice,” he said. “I want to make sure people get the help they need.”
Nava also gives back to the College that helped change his life. His wife, who earned her associate degree in Psychology from CWI, also benefited from scholarships and financial aid. Together, they know firsthand how much donor support matters. “Your donations help more than you will ever know,” Nava emphasized. “You can see your dollars at work here. Without that support, some students wouldn’t have the chance to better their lives.”
For current and future students, Nava offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t give up! Sometimes it will be hard, but your perseverance will pay off. Education is scary at first, but furthering your education will pay off in the future.”
From a young father working multiple jobs, to a college graduate, to a small business owner giving back to his community, Nava’s story is proof that education at CWI creates opportunity and transforms lives.
Entrepreneur Lab Highlight: Daniella Jenson
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab is proud to shine a spotlight on one of their enthusiastic entrepreneurs. Daniella Jenson, a current student at CWI studying Business with a minor in Psychology, is passionate about helping fellow students see the world from new perspectives through travel, personal growth, volunteering, and the transformative power of a gap year. Jenson’s vision is deeply influenced by her personal overseas travel experiences, including recent trips through Indonesia and Vietnam.
Last year, Jenson pitched her venture idea, Solosowonderer at the Entrepreneur Lab’s Fall 2024 Showcase & Completion, and secured funding to support her mission of introducing students to gap year opportunities.
Through her work with the Entrepreneur Lab, Jenson has focused on asking the right questions, building strategic partnerships, and envisioning a future where schools recognize how gap years can enhance both student success and retention. By sharing her story and visuals on platforms like Instagram, Jenson aims to bring the gap year experience to life for a wider audience.
Jenson’s next step is to create a comprehensive guide and photography resource hub to help more students and families explore the world, discover themselves, and take the leap into a life-changing gap year. The Entrepreneur Lab is excited to continue to support Jenson and other students like her as they experiment with entrepreneurship.
Former College of Western Idaho Trustee M.C. Niland Remembered for Service and Dedication
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is saddened by the passing of former Board of Trustees member M.C. Niland, who dedicated her time and talents to supporting education and strengthening the mission of CWI.
Niland served on the College’s Board of Trustees during a period of growth and opportunity, helping lead initiatives that expanded student access, reinforced fiscal responsibility, and strengthened CWI’s role in the Treasure Valley. Her commitment to higher education and to the success of students left an indelible mark on the College and community.
“M.C. Niland was an integral trustee to seeing the future vision and what’s possible at CWI, today serving 31,000 students with over 6,000 coming from her hometown of Nampa,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “We know it’s the decisions that M.C. made that allowed CWI to be what we are today.”
Niland will be remembered not only for her professional contributions, but also for her dedication to community service and her passion for creating opportunities for students to succeed.
“I was honored to serve alongside M.C. Niland as a founding trustee of CWI,” said Mark Dunham. “We worked together for 13 years, and throughout that time, M.C. proved to be a tenacious leader. She founded WITCO to support individuals with disabilities and was a driving force behind the creation of CWI. Her leadership was defined by innovation, compassion, and excellence. Beyond her accomplishments, she was also a wonderful person and a dear friend. What a legacy!”
The College extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her service and generosity.
Mary Carol "MC" Niland obituary and memorial events - https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/idahostatesman/name/mary-niland-obituary?id=59303537
Biology Majors: Apply for Wildlife Internships
Are you interested in natural resources research or management? If so, College of Western Idaho (CWI) has an exciting opportunity specifically for Biology–Natural Resources majors.
Through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Pathways Internships, students can gain hands-on experience working with biologists in Idaho. Two internships are available, focused on supporting the Service’s mission to conserve wildlife and habitats across the state.
Appointments will be made for approximately eight months, depending on the applicants’ start date and availability. Eligible students include those enrolled at CWI and working toward a bachelor’s degree in any field of natural resources research or management including botany, ecology, environmental science, fisheries, wildlife biology, and other related fields. Students must be eligible for financial aid and the Federal Work-Study Program. They must be able to work up to 10 hours per week, inside or outside, and may be required to navigate uneven terrain, lift heavy objects, or perform other physical tasks. Eligible students should be planning to transfer to a four-year college or university in Idaho to continue their studies in natural resources research or management.
Successful candidates will participate in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service meetings, complete federally sponsored trainings, and network with potential employers. In addition, there may be opportunities for future internships and/or temporary employment. Careers in the natural resources field are rewarding but very competitive. Gaining experiences by way of internships is a great way to begin your career as a natural resource professional and may be an entry point into federal service.
For those interested in applying, contact Dr. Steven Lysne at stevelysne@cwi.edu. Include a resumé and a brief notice of interest in your communication.
Food for Thought Fall 2025
Join College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Learning Commons (Library, Tutoring Services, and Writing and AI Literacy Center) for their annual Food for Thought, a two-day event for new and returning students to connect with librarians, tutors, and writing and AI consultants to learn about the academic resources available to help them succeed in their classes.
CWI library staff supports students with research and offers streaming videos and other tools to support student studies. Tutors work with students to help them better understand and prepare for coursework, exams, or papers. Services include appointments covering various academic disciplines, study group opportunities, and more. The writing and AI consultants support students with access and training on AI tools and usage, along with writing help.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
Tutoring Center, Room 1304 and Student Commons
Thursday, Sept. 18
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Tutoring Center, Room 209 and Second Floor Atrium
Join the Learning Commons and Student Engagement for free pizza and opportunities to connect!
The First Four Weeks of Fall 2025
Welcome Otters!
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is excited to celebrate the start of another academic year with a lineup of exciting events for new and returning students. Here are the first of many events to mark on your calendars for Fall 2025.
Week of Welcome
Monday Aug. 18 – Wednesday, Aug. 20
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
- Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Week of Welcome is an initiative designed to support students during their first week of classes. CWI staff will be stationed across select campus locations to help students navigate the college’s various campuses, help students locate their classes, and provide students the opportunity to get answers to common questions that will promote a successful start to the semester!
Student Resource Fair
- Wednesday, Aug. 27
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building
- Thursday, Aug. 28
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building
Kick off the semester with the Office of Student Engagement and Counseling and Wellness Services by exploring the many services and opportunities available to you at CWI. The Student Resource Fair brings together departments and community partners to help you make connections, find support, and get involved. Enjoy giveaways, meet staff and faculty, and discover tools to help you succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Club Fest
- Wednesday, Sept. 3
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building
- Thursday, Sept. 4
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building
Looking to make friends, develop leadership skills, or share your passion with others? Club Fest is the perfect place to explore active clubs at CWI or connect with the Office of Student Engagement to learn more about how to start a new club on-campus. Meet club representatives and learn how you can make the most of your campus experience. From academic clubs to special interests, there is something for everyone.
Job & Career Fair
- Tuesday, Sept. 9
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building
- Wednesday, Sept. 10
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building
- Thursday, Sept. 11
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center
Step into your future at CWI’s Job & Career Fair. Network with local employers, learn about job opening and internships, and connect with CWI Work-Based Learning Center for help with your resume and interview skills. Whether you are seeking part-time work, a full-time position, or career advice, this event is your gateway to professional growth.
Here’s to a great semester ahead – let’s make Fall 2025 one to remember!
All events sponsored by Westmark Credit Union.
AI Stipend Applications Close Sept. 12
The AI Committee at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is excited to announce new professional development stipend opportunities for the 2025-2026 academic year, available to both faculty and staff. There are two stipend options with specific roles, deliverables, and a two-semester commitment aimed to foster innovation and increase AI engagement across campus.
The application deadline is Friday, Sept. 12.
1. Department Engagement Leaders
This role is ideal for people ready to learn alongside their colleagues to spark meaningful conversations and exploration within their department. No AI experience required. Leaders will:
- Facilitate department-specific AI activities and discussions.
- Investigate, test, and share out opportunities, risks, and success conditions for an AI implementation that advances the department's goals.
- Meet quarterly with AI Committee to share our learnings.
Apply to be a Department Engagement Leader
2. AI Innovators
This opportunity is for those already deeply engaged with AI tools and practices. Innovators will:
- Host one, campus-wide Lunch and Learn per semester.
- Produce one content item for the AI Central SharePoint.
- Share a five-minute presentation at the quarterly AI Committee meetings.
Stipends are $500 in a direct stipend or to department’s professional development funds, as determined by your supervisor. Full details and link to apply AI Professional Development Stipends 2025-26. Questions? Contact Jillana Finnegan at jillanafinnegan@cwi.edu.
