CWI News – August 15, 2025
In the Spotlight
College of Western Idaho President, Gordon Jones, delivered the 2025 State of the College Address to faculty, staff, and community on Wednesday, August 13, at the West Lawn/Quad of the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB). The location of the event was a first for CWI and attendees, with the new Health & Sciences Building serving as both a backdrop and evidence of the College’s strong growth.
News Highlights
Bishop Appointed to College of Western Idaho Board of Trustees
College of Western Idaho (CWI) proudly welcomes David Bishop, MHS, to its Board of Trustees, representing District 4, which includes parts of Meridian and Boise. Bishop, a seasoned healthcare executive and devoted community advocate, brings more than 30 years of leadership experience to his new role, furthering CWI’s mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education to students across the Treasure Valley.
Currently serving as Executive Director of Emergency Medicine of Idaho, Bishop’s career has been defined by his commitment to patient-centered care, workforce development, and servant leadership. His distinguished professional background includes high-level roles such as Chief Operating Officer at St. Luke’s Boise, CEO of the Idaho Urologic Institute and Surgery Center of Idaho, as well as leadership positions with the Idaho Army National Guard and St. Luke’s Health System. He was instrumental in advancing St. Luke’s cardiac service line, which earned 10 consecutive national awards from Watson Truven as a Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospital from 2008 to 2018.
Bishop’s impact extends beyond healthcare. He has devoted time and expertise to numerous community efforts, including service with Turn-Key Medical, Faith & Humanity Medical Missions, and the South Meridian YMCA Major Gifts Committee. His involvement also includes work with the Boise Centennial and Meridian Rotary Clubs, and the St. Luke’s Children’s Advisory Board and Kid for a Night Committee. His global outreach includes founding a nonprofit to deliver humanitarian medical relief in Honduras, underscoring his passion for service on both local and international levels.
An alumnus of Boise State University, Bishop holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science Studies and a Master of Health Sciences with an emphasis in health policy. He has previously lent his expertise to both Boise State and CWI, supporting program development and healthcare education pathways, including assisting with the transition of Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Practical Nursing (LPN) programs to CWI.
“As a lifelong advocate for education, community service, and healthcare leadership, I am inspired by CWI’s mission to empower students and strengthen our region through accessible, high-quality education,” said Bishop.
CWI Board Chair Jim Reames expressed his enthusiasm for Bishop’s appointment, stating, “We are delighted to have David join the CWI Board of Trustees. His extensive experience in healthcare, commitment to service and education, and strong dedication to workforce development embody the core values of our college and community.”
David and his wife Stephanie are proud parents of three adult children. When he’s not contributing to the community, Bishop enjoys restoring classic cars, downhill skiing, whitewater rafting, and traveling.
CWI is excited to have Bishop’s leadership on the Board of Trustees and looks forward to the positive impact he will make in supporting the College’s continued growth and service to students and communities.
2025 State of the College Address Recap
College of Western Idaho (CWI) President, Gordon Jones, delivered the 2025 State of the College Address to faculty, staff, and community on Wednesday, August 13, at the West Lawn/Quad of the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB). The location of the event was a first for CWI and attendees, with the new Health & Sciences Building serving as both a backdrop and evidence of the College’s strong growth.
Preceding the Address, the exceptional contributions of faculty and staff were recognized, with monthly winners invited up to the stage by Faculty Senate President Abby Wolford and Staff Senate President Crystal Rangel. The 2025 Faculty of Distinction Award was awarded to Mindy Young, Professor of Network Administration, and the 2025 Staff of the Year Award presented to Alex Pless, Tutoring Specialist. Congratulations!
Additionally, there were 154 employees who reached key anniversaries in their service to CWI:
Five-year recipients: 74
Ten-year recipients: 17
Fifteen-year recipients: 62
Next, the Pillar Award was presented by Mark Arstein, vice president of Advancement, to four employees who have steadfastly supported and given to the CWI Foundation: Audrey Eldridge, Morriah Marks, Jeff Flynn, and Heidi Mackenzie.
The State of the College Address was then delivered by President Jones and served as launching pad for the new school year, an opportunity to welcome faculty and staff, celebrate highlights from the past year, and provide vision moving forward. His presentation showcased several of CWI’s transformational programs and teams, the new Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration, and the tremendous progress with construction across CWI locations. These included the recently completed Health & Science Building and Agriculture Sciences Complex, and the future CapEd Student Success Center and Boise location.
In an emotional moment, President Jones expressed, “As we kick off this year, I'm energized to see students coming back to campus and I know you join me in that sentiment. It's why I'm here. We've talked about our “why” for CWI. How can you not be excited for students taking big steps to start something new and learn transformative skills. It’s at CWI where they have that opportunity and it’s because of you.”
After his remarks, President Jones opened the floor to answer questions from attendees, during which topics including AI, the Ford Idaho Center, and more were discussed.
At the conclusion of the event, faculty and staff were invited to tour the Health & Sciences Building.
Digital Navigators: A New Resource for CWI Students
A new resource called “Digital Navigators” is available at College of Western Idaho (CWI) to support students with their technology needs. Available at all CWI computer labs as a drop-in service (no appointment needed), Digital Navigators offer a unique kind of peer-to-peer assistance focused specifically on helping students build confidence with everyday digital applications.
A Technology Lifeline for Students
Digital Navigators are fellow students employed in work-study positions, trained to help their peers navigate the digital systems essential to success at CWI. In an increasingly digital world, many students rely on laptops, online platforms, and communication tools but may not feel fully confident using them. For those who find tasks like navigating Canvas (formerly Blackboard) or sending an email challenging, Digital Navigators are a friendly and approachable resource.
Their role is to provide guidance on a variety of digital tasks, from logging into campus Wi-Fi to creating discussion threads in class. The goal is to boost digital fluency while ensuring no student feels left behind.
How Digital Navigators Are different
Unlike One Stop Student Services — which assists students with academic and administrative services like academic planning, financial aid, and advisor appointments — Digital Navigators focus solely on technology-related issues including:
- Sending and replying to emails
- Navigating Canvas (formerly Blackboard)
- Downloading necessary applications
- Creating and submitting assignments
- Using Microsoft Office tools and Google Docs
Digital Navigators address common questions that students may be hesitant to ask, offering a supportive environment that encourages learning and self-sufficiency.
Services & Support
In addition to one-on-one support, Digital Navigators is ready to schedule multi-week digital skills sessions to help any student master the basic computer skills needed for college success. This peer support is not meant to replace Campus Tech Support or resolve hardware issues but rather to empower students with the everyday tech skills needed for college success.
Canvas Transition
CWI has transitioned from Blackboard to Canvas, and Digital Navigators are already trained on the new platform. Their continued support will play a crucial role in helping students make a smooth transition and maintain momentum in their coursework.
Confidence Building
Students are encouraged to seek help — even for questions that may seem small. Digital Navigators are fellow students who understand the learning curve that comes with using technology in an academic setting. Their mission is to ensure all students feel confident using the digital tools available at CWI.
A Campus Resource
Digital Navigators represent a significant addition to student support services at CWI. By offering assistance with day-to-day technology needs, they help build the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Students are encouraged to take full advantage of this resource to make their college journey more successful and less stressful.
For more information contact Greg Wilson, Assistant Dean of General Education, or visit the Digital Navigators web page.
Entrepreneur Lab Builds on First-Year Success, Sets Bold Goals for Year Two
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab is kicking off a new academic year with excitement and momentum. As we step into Year 2, we’re reflecting on the remarkable accomplishments from our first year — and looking forward to building on that success.
During our inaugural year, the Entrepreneur Lab supported 438 entrepreneurs, awarded $8,105 in funding, and established valuable partnerships across CWI and within the broader community. These achievements underscore the Entrepreneur Lab’s mission to inspire innovation, provide resources, and create opportunities for aspiring business owners.
Looking ahead, we’re setting ambitious goals. This year, we aim to expand participation in our events, strengthen collaborations across CWI, and identify and fund even more innovative entrepreneurs. One key way we’re doing this is by connecting directly with students through classroom visits — both in-person and virtual. Faculty interested in hosting a presentation from the Entrepreneur Lab are encouraged to sign up online.
We also welcome ideas from faculty, staff, and students on how we can better support entrepreneurial learning at CWI. Whether it’s partnering on a class project, providing mentorship, or creating new opportunities for student innovation, the Entrepreneur Lab is eager to collaborate.
As we embark on another year, our team is energized to help students spark creativity, develop big ideas, and turn visions into reality. Together, we can make Year 2 even more impactful than the last.
For more information or to get involved, email entrepreneurlab@cwi.edu.
From CWI to Papua New Guinea: Landen Kelly’s Lens on the World
For Landen Kelly, a single elective course at College of Western Idaho (CWI) sparked a transformation that would send him across the globe in search of untold stories.
Born and raised in Idaho’s Boise Valley, Kelly grew up surrounded by rural simplicity. In his mid-20s, he returned to the classroom as a nontraditional student, enrolling at CWI to pursue an associate degree in History. His decision to take a photography class — just to “scratch a creative itch” — quickly evolved into something far more meaningful.
“Seeing things around me in a new way, through a camera lens, I knew that I had learned something special, something life-altering,” said Kelly. “That’s when my true life’s passion emerged. I wanted to capture stories of the overlooked — the unheard, unseen, and unnoticed.”
The passion was ignited by Digital Photography Professor Shawna Donahue, who Kelly credits with unlocking his perspective. At CWI, he found an academic environment that encouraged him to defy expectations and see education as a lifelong journey. “I have never fit the societal cast for a ‘college student,’” he explained. “But my eyes were continuously opening wider to the possibility and potential to defy the ‘norms’ of post-secondary education.”
Kelly’s time at CWI was marked by both creative discovery and personal resilience. As a nontraditional student, he balanced full-time studies with two jobs, marriage, and co-parenting his niece. “Traditional students with parental support find the time for weekend fun and eventually career internships,” he said. “The nontraditional student runs along the ragged edge to make it to graduation day and hopes that their time management skills showcase on the same level at future interviews.”
After graduating from CWI, Kelly continued his studies at Boise State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in media arts with an emphasis in Journalism. Then came a life-changing opportunity — a position as a communications officer in Papua New Guinea (PNG) with Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), an international nonprofit with a 72-year history in the region.
In PNG, Kelly boarded bush planes into some of the most remote corners of the world to document the lives of isolated communities. “Each day in PNG unfurled new narratives, unveiling needs, heartbreaks, joys, and the untouched beauty of this modern world outlier,” he said. “The experience etched in me a commitment to spend a lifetime chasing the untold stories of those who are unseen, unnoticed, and unheard.”
Kelly’s photography and storytelling have since been featured in publications such as Outside Magazine, Flying for Life, the Idaho Statesman, MTV, and New Zealand Aid, among others. His camera has become more than a creative tool — it’s a bridge between worlds and a means of connection.
Students now have the opportunity to pursue the same kind of passion and purpose through CWI’s new Digital Photography program. The program offers hands-on training in both artistic and technical aspects of photography, preparing students for careers in media, business, marketing, and more — all while equipping them to tell powerful visual stories.
Interested in turning your creative eye into a career? Learn more about CWI’s Digital Photography program and start your journey today.
Work-Based Learning Center at CWI Bridges Education and Employment
The Work-Based Learning Center (WBLC) at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is redefining student success by connecting classroom learning and real-world experience. Through a comprehensive suite of services, the WBLC empowers students to explore careers, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for the workforce with confidence.
A Hub for Career Readiness
The WBLC offers a wide range of services designed to help students transition from education to employment and assist faculty with positive placement for their programs. The services include:
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Career Exploration: Helping students identify their interests, values, and skills through tools like the Interest Profiler and Career Clusters Survey.
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Job Shadowing: Providing opportunities to observe professionals and gain the information necessary to help students make the right decisions for themselves.
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Internships: Gives the opportunity for students to work side by side with professionals in the industry of choice and either earn credit, experience, or both.
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Work Study & Employment: Assist students in finding part-time jobs and work-study positions that align with their academic and career goals.
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Resume & Cover Letter Support: Offering guidance on crafting targeted resumes and cover letters to increase students’ chances of landing careers that meet their goals.
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Mock Interviews and Interview Prep: Prepare students with practice interviews, sample questions, and professional dress tips to boost confidence and performance.
Real Support. Real Results.
The WBLC helps students sharpen their resumes, build networks, and gain experience that leads to careers. For these two students, it made all the difference.
"Kaden has been such an incredible support throughout my time at CWI. From the very beginning, he supported me every step of the way — helping me revise and strengthen my resume, guiding me through the internship process, and even offering to do a mock interview to help me feel more confident. I’m especially grateful for how consistently he’s checked in and helped however he could to make sure things came together. His support has truly made a difference in my experience, and I appreciate all he’s done to help me grow professionally." — Daisy Gallegos
“ My experience with the Work-Based Learning Center was fantastic! I was provided with guidance on enhancing my resume, interview pointers, and networking opportunities. They even printed off some resumes for me! On top of it all, through the WBLC I was able to secure a position at St. Luke’s!! I highly recommend students to take advantage of this valuable resource. Whether you’re an experienced professional or an eager student ready to enter the field, it’s always a good idea to pay a visit to the staff at WBLC who’ve got your back! I truly appreciate the help you guys offer!” — Ivan Gonzales
Tools for Success
Students are encouraged to use Handshake, the top-rated tool for helping college students find jobs. The WBLC also promotes resume optimization tools helping students tailor their resumes to specific roles.
Support Every Step of the Way
The WBLC team, led by Executive Director John Russ and a team of dedicated professionals, is committed to supporting students throughout their entire academic journey. Whether a student is unsure of their career path or ready to apply for career opportunities, the WBLC offers personalized guidance and resources.
Partner with WBLC Today
Following the spirit of its motto, “Exposure is the birthplace of opportunity,” the WBLC works with various faculty and staff to coordinate industry-specific visits, guest speakers, and schedule one-on-one sessions to support students’ career development.
Jody Kirchgessner, the senior talent sourcer at JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.), expressed their enthusiasm for CWI students, saying,
“Thank you for sharing your graduates with us. Your partnership sets the gold standard for tech school relationships all across the country – we talk about you a lot!” — Jody Kirchgessner
CWI Launches Career-Focused Photography Program with Small Business Training
College of Western Idaho (CWI) has introduced a new Digital Photography program designed to help students turn their creative skills into sustainable careers right here in the Treasure Valley.
“We really wanted to create something unique that wasn’t duplicating what other schools in the valley were already offering,” said Brenda Fisher, Chair of the Art Department at CWI. “This is about creating opportunities that didn’t previously exist for students and for our local workforce.”
Shawna Donahue is leading and instructing the new program. An internationally exhibited artist, she brings expertise in photography, artist’s books, and encaustic collage. Her work is included in collections such as the New York Public Library and UCLA. Prior to Donahue joining CWI she was an instructor at Boise State University. She is now entering her tenth year of educating students at CWI. Visit shawna-donahue.com to explore her portfolio and creative projects.
Additionally, Donahue was recently selected to be part of a new photography project called Boise PhotoGrid documenting the city of Boise, for which she was featured on the Boise State Public Radio show, Idaho Matters (Listen here). Her work on this initiative can be found on Instagram: @boise.photogrid.
The program was developed from the ground up to meet workforce demand and student interest. While other institutions focus solely on fine arts photography, CWI’s program takes a more applied, career-focused approach. Students gain hands-on experience in editorial, portrait, event, and commercial photography, and learn how to build a freelance or small business with real-world training. The program is still a great fit for students interested in fine art, but it also opens the door to a wider range of career opportunities. Students will also develop a portfolio during their studies, providing an awesome way to illustrate their talent and hard work after graduation.
“There’s a misconception that if you pursue the arts, you’re destined to struggle financially,” Shawna shared. “But the arts are everywhere in our world, and this program proves you can build a sustainable, rewarding career with the right training.”
Until now, students interested in photography had limited options after high school. With more than 1,500 high school students participating in Career Technical Education (CTE) photography courses across the region each year, CWI’s program fills a long-standing gap for local, career-ready training after high school.
“There was a real need for a local program that would allow students to build on what they started in high school,” said Donahue. “Now, we can be that next step.”
To give students flexibility based on their goals and timeline, CWI offers two pathways: a one-year Basic Technical Certificate (BTC), ideal for working professionals or those looking to build marketable skills quickly, or a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree designed for those seeking a deeper, more comprehensive education. Along the way, students can earn an additional Small Business and Entrepreneurship Certificate without adding time.
A key feature of the program is its gear-inclusive model. Equipment fees are built into several photography courses, allowing students to build a professional kit over time and use financial aid where eligible. For those who already own equipment, opt-out options are available on a case-by-case basis.
“This program is about showing students that a career in the arts can be both creative and sustainable,” Shawna added. “We are giving them the tools to succeed on day one.”
Flexible scheduling, stackable credentials, and strong community partnerships make this program accessible to a range of learners, from recent high school graduates to working professionals.
Beyond the classroom, the program is actively building relationships with local creative agencies to provide students with real-world experience through internships and collaborative projects. For example, students in the program have photographed CWI’s new Health and Science and Simplot Agriculture Building, and their work will be displayed as large-scale art within those spaces.
The curriculum also includes general education courses such as personal finance, design, communication, and film and video production to help students become well-rounded creative professionals.
This combination of practical skills, business training, and real-world experience makes CWI’s Digital Photography program a valuable option for students who want to transform their creative passion into a lifelong career.
Ready to turn your creativity into a career? Learn more about the Digital Photography program at College of Western Idaho.
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.
Enjoy the Fair for Less on CWI Day
Get ready to enjoy CWI Day at the Western Idaho Fair on Saturday, Aug. 16. Students, alumni, employees, family, and friends of College of Western Idaho (CWI) community are invited to attend what has been the social event of the summer for over 125 years, taking place this year from Aug. 15 – 24.
CWI Day at Western Idaho Fair
Saturday, Aug. 16
11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Western Idaho Fairgrounds
General Admission to the Fair is $10, and an additional Carnival Wristband can be purchased for $32 for those eager to enjoy the many exciting rides.
CWI students and employees can purchase discounted ($2 off) General Admission tickets.
CWI Day Tickets Use code: CWIFairTime
Only 200 tickets are available — first come, first served
We can’t wait to see you there!
Volunteer with CWI and Enjoy a Free Concert!
Want to catch a fantastic concert at the Ford Idaho Center for free, all while making a tangible difference for College of Western Idaho (CWI) students? Here's your chance!
We're thrilled to continue our partnership with the Ford Idaho Center this fall to support the vital CWI Food Pantry program. Throughout their exciting concert series, we'll be collecting much-needed monetary donations to ensure our students have access to essential resources.
We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join us! Each concert requires a minimum of four volunteers for a two-hour shift. During your shift, you'll engage with concertgoers, helping them make monetary contributions through the CWI Giving website or by collecting cash. The best part? After your short shift, you get to stay and enjoy the entire concert – absolutely free! And as an added bonus, the Ford Idaho Center has upped the ante, providing a free food and beverage voucher!
Blues Traveler
August 26
Train
September 10
Cole Swindell
October 11
This is a wonderful opportunity to experience live music, give back to the community, and directly impact CWI students. Friends and family who aren't CWI affiliates are more than welcome to volunteer and enjoy the show as well! We can accommodate a maximum of four volunteers per concert.
On the day of your chosen concert, a representative from the Ford Idaho Center will meet you at the venue to get you set up. Once you sign up, we'll send you more detailed information about your shift.
We can't wait to welcome you to our team of dedicated volunteers this fall. Your support truly helps our students thrive!
