CWI News – August 23, 2024
News Highlights
Let's Go Otters
The new College of Western Idaho's (CWI) mascot was launched on August 14 during 2024 State of the College Address. Through an inclusive and collaborative journey and in partnership with our campus community, the Otter was established as CWI’s official mascot.
The Otter serves as a symbol for our thriving community to rally around while also paying tribute to the accomplishments and growth at CWI. This mascot will embody the curious, resilient, dynamic, and collaborative spirit of the College, mirroring our students’ ability to thrive and innovate in any field or environment.
You can learn about River the Otter at cwi.edu/mascot and follow the inspiration and creative journey that went into it's development. Explore a behind-the-scenes look at logo and wordmark designs, the anatomical analysis, and the brand guide for usage.
Ready to sport your Otter spirit? Visit the CWI Bookstore to find Otter gear such as t-shirts, hats, sweatshirts, and more.
If you have any questions about the mascot, reach out to Marketing & Communications at communications@cwi.edu.
Let’s Go Otters!
Emergency Handbook Update
The Emergency Handbook has been updated by Safety and Security to a new version titled “Emergency Guidebook”. These critical publications have traditionally been posted in all classrooms, offices, and break rooms next to building Address and Emergency signs.
To reduce expenses and the use of paper, the updated Emergency Guidebook can now be accessed through a QR code on the bottom of Address and Emergency signs.
For those that would like a printed version, updated hard copies of the Emergency Guidebook will still be available at security desks and in break rooms across campus.
Got questions or comments? Contact Stan Niccolls, Director of Security, at stanniccolls@cwi.edu or 208.562.3170.
Wishing Well Fund Accepting Applications
Looking for extra financial help to fund a classroom need or program? Now's your chance as the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Foundation’s Wishing Well Fund is accepting applications!
The Wishing Well Fund was established to encourage our staff and faculty to innovate and enhance CWI's educational environment and develop student learning opportunities. All the funds granted must be used for the direct advancement of departments or programs, contributing to students' growth and learning experiences.
This Fund is only possible thanks to the generous contributions of CWI employees and our supportive community partners, who are passionate about funding projects that extend beyond the standard departmental budget and require a financial lift to enhance student experiences.
The application must be signed both by you and your Dean/Director and submitted online to the CWI Foundation by 3 p.m. on Oct. 31. Late submissions will not be considered.
The maximum award amount is $1,500, and funds must be utilized by May 1, 2025.
For more information about the Wishing Well Fund or to request an application, please reach out to the Foundation at foundation@cwi.edu.
Veterans Gain a Degree Pathway Through CWI Partnership with Mission43
College of Western Idaho's (CWI) mission to provide an affordable and accessible education for all has new support from Mission 43, a charitable organization that serves retired military veterans and their spouses in the state of Idaho.
Mission43 had been looking for an educational partner to create an easy-to-navigate path for veterans to receive college credit for past military training. CWI stepped up to the plate and created an Associate of Applied Science degree in Management, which can be completed in as little as one semester for qualified veterans. With a generous scholarship from Mission43 for their members, the degree provides an excellent opportunity for veterans.
Support from Mission43 also allowed CWI to hire a dedicated Veterans Services Coordinator. Shannon Kerr began working for the College in January of this year.
Mission43, an initiative of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, is committed to supporting Idaho's post-9/11 servicemen, women, and their spouses by providing the resources they need for a successful transition after leaving the military, allowing them to excel academically, in their next career, and within their communities.
CWI and Mission43 have worked together closely to level up support for veterans, with College staff attending a coffee hour at the Mission43 Fieldhouse and traveling to Boise to record a podcast.
Additionally, roughly 60 CWI students and staff veterans attended a luncheon in May where they heard from the Mission43 Director, Dan Nelson; Education Director, Alison Garrow; and Idaho Backcountry Veterans.
The College also attended the Gowen Field Education and Employment workshop with Mission43 — an event that provided opportunities for students to meet and learn about other organizations that support veterans.
