CWI News – August 25, 2023
Spotlight
We made it through the first week of Fall 2023! Thank you to Student Engagement who brought Slow River Coffee onto campus to help us fuel up to take on this week. We also saw many of our awesome student resources out at the coffee car stops each day to meet with new and returning students to share about all #mightyCWI has to offer.
Here's to a fantastic rest of the semester!
News Highlights
CWI’s Psi Beta Honor Society Earns National Recognition
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Psi Beta Honor Society Chapter which has earned multiple national recognitions for the 2022-2023 academic year.
The Chapter Excellence Award is given to chapters that meet or exceed a minimum number of activities that engage student members in service, research, leadership, and scholarship. Few Psi Beta chapters have been awarded this distinction and it signifies the hard work and dedication of CWI’s students.
Under the guidance of Professor of Psychology Heather Schoenherr, the chapter's primary focus is on providing students with valuable research experience to enhance their competitiveness when transferring to universities or entering the workforce. Over the course of the last year, they conducted a series of research projects exploring the perception of psychology as a science and identifying predictors of psychological misconceptions.
The CWI chapter also prioritized engaging in leadership and collaboration training, actively participated in research conferences, hosted speakers to talk about different fields related to psychology, and spearheaded the College’s Giving Tree to bring gifts to children who are part of the CASA of Southwest Idaho program.
In addition to the Chapter Excellence Award, three exceptional CWI students were awarded the Student Research Award. Jensen Crary, Val Harris, and Andrew Sargent have been recognized for their exemplary work in high-impact practice of engaging in research through their Statistical Methods (PSYC 251) course led by Schoenherr, and Research Methods (PSYC 250) course led by Associate Professor of Psychology, Jana McCurdy. Each research project was presented at CWI’s Connections Project in Spring 2023.
Crary's research focused on the impact of attachment styles on stress, happiness, and friendship satisfaction among CWI students. Harris delved into the relationship between attachment styles, mental health variables, and interpersonal relationships, particularly relationship satisfaction and conflict. Sargent explored the link between mindfulness practices and stress and anxiety and served as a peer mentor for McCurdy’s Research Methods course.
Additionally, Harris and Sargent, along with CWI student, Savannah Werner, explored factors that predict psychology as a science and belief in psychological misconceptions. This research was part of the National Research Project hosted by Psi Beta involving schools from around the country contributing participant data to have a larger and more diverse sample. This research was presented at Psi Beta's National Research Summit and has been accepted for publication.
“The Psychology Program has been intentional in ensuring we provide curriculum and experiences to our students to ensure they are ready for transfer and the workforce,” Schoenherr said. “National recognition from these programs validates the experience students are gaining from our CWI Psychology program, builds students’ academic resumes, and brings students the acknowledgment they deserve for their hard work and dedication. I am incredibly proud of our Psi Beta members and what they have accomplished this past year.
For those interested in learning more about CWI’s Psi Beta Honor Society, please contact Heather Schoenherr at heatherschoenherr@cwi.edu.
Walsh’s Research Receives National Recognitions
College of Western Idaho (CWI) Adjunct Faculty, Dr. Ray Walsh, is making waves in the world of chemistry inside and outside the classroom. His research has earned a couple of national recognitions, including top prize at the American Academy of Physics Teacher’s (AAPT) Apparatus Competition and a publication in Physics Education Journal.
For a decade, Walsh has been researching the structure of the atomic nucleus. The basis of Walsh’s research is to understand the construction of atomic nuclei, along with quarks like up and down and quarks with opposite and unequal charges. In 2019, he created a model of the atomic nucleus, the Magnetic Coulomb Barrier, and patented it.
The Magnetic Coulomb Barrier provides a visual and hands-on demonstration of the central challenge of nuclear fusion to overcome the electrostatic forces inherent in the Coulomb barrier. With the model, students can directly determine the kinetic energy required to surpass the magnetic potential energy barrier.
“A great deal of force and energy is required to push the two magnet arrays together, but when sufficient force is applied, they fuse together,” said Walsh. “This apparatus is a big deal because fusion holds the promise of clean and abundant energy, but there's currently no available classroom model to teach this fascinating concept.”
Walsh submitted his interactive nuclear model to the worldwide AAPT Apparatus Competition which earned him first place on July 16. The competition looks for new, unpublished ideas or improvements to old ideas that can aid classroom teaching.
His first place at the competition is not the only reason for Walsh to celebrate. His work was recently published in the Physics Education Journal to share with a larger audience his research and findings.
Walsh's goal is to eventually get the Magnetic Coulomb Barrier in classrooms to help make the concept of fusion accessible to everybody and excite students about its potential to solve future energy problems.
“While I am not a nuclear physicist myself, I believe that difficult concepts like fusion can be taught effectively through representational models.”
Start a Student Club at College of Western Idaho
Are you looking to start a student club at College of Western Idaho (CWI)? If so, you're in luck! There are many resources available to help you get started. One of the best places to start is by setting up a meeting with CWI Student Engagement and Programs Coordinator, Erin Ortiz. Ortiz can help you with everything from brainstorming ideas for your club to navigating the paperwork required to get it approved.
Here are a few of the benefits of starting a student club:
- Forge lifelong friendships: Joining a student club introduces you to like-minded individuals, paving the way for meaningful connections, and building a strong network of support.
- Unleash your leadership potential: Running a student club is a great way to develop your leadership skills. You'll learn how to plan and organize events, manage a budget, and work with a team. These skills are valuable in both your personal and professional life.
- Make an impact on campus: Student clubs are a great way to get involved on campus and make a difference in your community. You can use your club to raise awareness about important issues, volunteer your time, or simply have fun and make memories.
- Boost your resume: Having leadership experience in a student club is a great way to boost your resume and make yourself more attractive to employers. When you're applying for jobs, be sure to highlight your involvement in student clubs and the skills you learned.
If you're interested in starting a student club or have any questions, please reach out to Erin Ortiz at erinortiz@cwi.edu or schedule a meeting with her.
Set up a meeting with Erin Ortiz
CWI offers a wide range of student-led clubs catering to a diverse set of interests and passions. For a full list of established student clubs on campus, please visit the Student Clubs web page.
Idaho LAUNCH at College of Western Idaho Helps Fund Tuition & Fees for Idaho Seniors
Attention Idaho high school seniors graduating in Spring 2024! The State of Idaho has an incredible opportunity for you. Introducing Idaho LAUNCH, a program designed to help Idaho students fulfill their college dreams and attend College of Western Idaho (CWI) in Fall 2024.
With Idaho LAUNCH, you can receive 80% of your tuition and fees covered, up to $8,000 per student; nearly covering completion of a two-year degree or certificate. And the best part? There are no GPA or financial need requirements. Plus, everyone who applies to CWI is accepted!
Imagine starting your journey towards a degree or certificate at CWI, knowing that most of your tuition and fees will be taken care of. Plus, if you qualify, you can also apply for scholarships and financial aid to help cover any remaining costs.
We believe in giving every student the opportunity to create a better future through education and personal empowerment. At CWI, you'll have access to over 100 programs that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for today's in-demand careers.
Whether you're passionate about technology, healthcare, business, or any other field, CWI has got you covered. Don't miss out on this amazing chance to start your career right here in Idaho.
Applications for the Idaho LAUNCH program open Tuesday, Oct. 3, and will run through the end of November. High school students are highly encouraged to apply early.
Take the first step towards a bright future by learning more about Idaho LAUNCH and how you can get started on an affordable pathway to success. Sign up for CWI Idaho LAUNCH Link and visit the Resource Library on Next Steps of Idaho for additional Idaho LAUNCH program details. CWI is here to support and guide you every step of the way.
Keller Joins CWI’s Advancement and Foundation Division
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is excited to announce Mike Keller as the new Assistant Chief Development Officer of Strategic Initiatives for the College’s Advancement and Foundation department. With his expertise in fundraising and relationship-building, Keller will play a vital role in driving our fundraising efforts and strengthening our connection with donors and supporters.
“I’m beyond excited to join CWI at a pivotal time in the school’s history,” shared Keller. “CWI is an amazing resource for the Treasure Valley. I look forward to working with our supporters and constituents to further its mission of empowering students to succeed by providing affordable and accessible education to advance the local and global workforce.”
As Assistant Chief Development Officer, Keller will work closely with the CWI community and stakeholders to amplify the institution’s fundraising efforts, engage donors, and contribute to the College’s growth and success.
Keller brings a wealth of experience in major gift fundraising to CWI. Before joining us, he served as the Associate Athletic Director of Development at Boise State University, as well as holding fundraising positions at institutions like California State University, Fresno; Oregon State University; University of Washington; and Arizona State University. Keller holds a Master of Science from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois.
He joins the Advancement and Foundation division, where he will work alongside Assistant Chief Development Officer of Philanthropy Planning, Ryan Gerulf; Director of Foundation, Mike Jensen; Foundation Operations and Database Coordinator, LD Anderst; Administrative Assistant III, Stephanie Boren; Senior Accountant, Amanda McGinnis; and Vice President of Advancement, Mark Arstein.
The College’s Advancement and Foundation Division is committed to enhancing the student experience and serving CWI generally. Their mission is to inspire connections, develop private support, and establish an engaged constituency of donors, alumni, and advocates.
Please join the College in giving Keller a warm CWI welcome. We are ecstatic to have him on board and eagerly anticipate the collaborative efforts that will propel our institution forward.
Equity Tid Bit: Trauma Informed Practices
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Inclusive Excellence Committee is proud to host Equity Tid Bit: Trauma Informed Practices presented by CWI Counselor, Christy Babcock. This informative training will provide participants with a deeper understanding of trauma and how to best respond when working with students or colleagues who have experienced it.
Attendees will gain insight into the nature of trauma and learn how to recognize potential responses. They will also discuss the best ways to respond to support individuals impacted by trauma in their lives.
Nampa Campus Aspen Classroom Building (NASP) or via Zoom
Those interested in attending are asked to please register for the event prior. The event is free and open to all CWI faculty and staff.
The Inclusive Excellence Committee's Tid Bit Series aims to offer easy-to-understand and practical education on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Inclusive Excellence committee works to help realize the College’s mission to empower students to succeed by providing affordable and accessible education to advance the local and global workforce by fostering an inclusive educational community of engagement, respect, and accountability. The committee believes success is driven by the power of an inclusive culture based on utilizing our differences to stimulate and encourage social justice, multicultural competence, and effective and engaged citizenship.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact the Inclusive Excellence Committee at inclusiveexcellence@cwi.edu.
Micron Education Center Project Update
With the first week of classes wrapping up it's great to see so much activity happening across campus. In addition to students returning, there are a lot of facility improvements taking place throughout. Earlier this year College of Western Idaho (CWI) embarked on a project to enhance the mechanical systems within the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC), an important step towards improving the overall building infrastructure. To ensure the success of this endeavor the expertise of a skilled contractor to oversee the project was secured.
Unfortunately, the project timeline has encountered unexpected delays due to unforeseen structural challenges that emerged. These challenges are actively being addressed in collaboration with CWI's contracted partners. It's possible that during this period, those attending classes, working in, or visiting the NMEC may experience some minor inconveniences and temporary fluctuations in indoor temperatures.
Should you find that these conditions are starting to have an adverse impact on your experience, please reach out for assistance. Students may reach out to their instructor directly; others may communicate with their direct supervisor or an email can be sent to communications@cwi.edu.
Also, please be aware that seal coating and striping operations for the NMEC parking lot will take place over Labor Day weekend. Beginning Friday, Sept. 1, please watch for designated parking areas to help accommodate for this work. Seal coating and striping will wrap up and the entire lot will reopen for parking on Tuesday, Sept. 5.
The comfort and educational journey of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors remains a top priority. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work towards creating an even better learning environment for everyone.
NWCCU Plans Visit to CWI
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU or the Commission). NWCCU recently provided feedback on CWI’s Policies, Regulations, and Financial Review Report in February 2023. The Commission will be conducting an onsite visit at CWI related to the Year-Seven Comprehensive Evaluation of Institutional Effectiveness during Oct. 18 – 20, 2023.
Constituents are invited to submit comments directly to the Commission office related to College of Western Idaho. Comments must be received no later than ten (10) days prior to the onsite visit and can be submitted to NWCCU in the following ways:
- United State Postal Service Mail or Courier Service:
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
8060 165th Ave. NE, Suite 200
Redmond, WA 98052
- Electronic Submission: https://nwccu.org/member-institutions/upcoming-evaluations/
If you have additional questions or would like to reach out to CWI directly, please email communications@cwi.edu or call 208.562.2222.
