CWI News – August 9, 2024
News Highlights
It’s Play Time during CWI Day at the Western Idaho Fair!
Get ready to enjoy CWI Day at the Western Idaho Fair on Saturday, Aug. 17! Students, alumni, employees, family, and friends of the 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. 16 – 25.
CWI Day at Western Idaho Fair
Saturday, Aug. 17
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 ($3 off) General Admission tickets.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Time for Another Employee Ticket Giveaway!
August is under way and great events, including the Western Idaho Fair and Caldwell Night Rodeo, are rapidly approaching. Get ready for exciting rides, tons of (unhealthy) food, engaging exhibits, high-stakes competitions, and several top-notch concerts.
To add to the fun, College of Western Idaho (CWI) employees can enter for a chance to win tickets to one of the incredible concerts happening at the Western Idaho Fair or admission to the Caldwell Night Rodeo! Concert headliners include Kansas, Nate Smith, Yung Gravy, and Josh Turner.
To enter, simply choose a number between 1and 1,000 and input it via the link below. The employee closest to the number, chosen at random, will be named the winner (and there will be more than one).
- Entries must be received by noon on Wednesday, Aug. 14.
- Winners will be notified the afternoon of Wednesday, Aug. 14.
- Tickets must be picked up by noon on Friday, Aug.16, or they will be given to the next eligible winner who is closest to the chosen number.
Members of President’s Cabinet and the Executive Operations Team are not eligible. Limit one entry per CWI employee.
Email hr@cwi.edu with questions.
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.
The 2024 Fall State of the College Address is Almost Here
With the fall term days away, it’s time for College of Western Idaho (CWI) faculty and staff to come together to kick off the 2024-2025 academic year. Let's gather and reflect on recent accomplishments, embrace the future, and celebrate how CWI helps students and our community level up by keeping quality education affordable and accessible.
2024 Fall State of the College Address
Wednesday, Aug. 14
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Galaxy Event Center
In addition to recognizing the 2024 Staff of the Year and Faculty of Distinction winners, the long-awaited new CWI mascot will also be introduced. Those wanting to participate in a drawing for new limited edition Otter gear can follow the link below to enter.
The agenda for the State of the College Address is as follows:
9:15 a.m. Doors Open
10:00 a.m. State of the College with President Jones
11:00 a.m. Employee Recognition
Noon Lunch
Faculty meeting will follow lunch and begin at 1:30 p.m. in meeting room Aurora A.
Take Time for Yourself on Mondays
Take a break from your studies, connect with fellow students, and discover the power of yoga at College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Mindfulness Mondays led by experienced instructors from 2C Yoga, a renowned local yoga studio. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, Mindfulness Mondays offer a supportive space for everyone to thrive.
Mindfulness Mondays are open to all CWI students, and there's no need to worry about bringing a mat — we've got you covered. These drop-in sessions are hosted nearly weekly so you can join any week that fits your schedule and experience the benefits of yoga in a welcoming environment.
Mindfulness Mondays with 2C Yoga
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Student Lounge, Room 122
Noon – 1 p.m.
Aug. |
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| Aug 26 | Sep 9 | Oct 7 | Nov 4 | Dec 2 |
| Sep 16 | Oct 14 | Nov 11 | ||
| Sep 23 | Oct 21 | Nov 18 | ||
| Sep 30 | Oct 28 |
Hills Named July 2024 Staff of the Month
Building Specialist, Russell Hills, has been named Staff of the Month for July 2024 at College of Western Idaho (CWI). Hills’ dedication to his role and his unwavering commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of events and maintaining a clean, healthy environment for students and staff have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
Hills was nominated by Michael Allen, who highlighted his exceptional work. "Russell sets up the events at NCAB. During the month of May, Russell worked diligently with faculty and staff to ensure the Connections event, Gradfest, monthly BOT meeting, The Wildland Fire Academy, and the Native American Heritage events went smoothly. This is just a sampling of the many events he set up. He did all this and still attended to his cleaning duties to make sure the students were healthy and comfortable during finals. Russell is a model employee and is deserving of some recognition," Allen stated.
Hills has been with CWI for 14 years, a testament to his dedication and commitment to the College. He was drawn to CWI by his friend Peter Stott, who told him he would fit in well due to his excellent work ethic. Before joining CWI, Hills worked at a grade school where he helped clean classrooms, gyms, and restrooms. His background in cleaning and maintenance has equipped him with the skills necessary to excel.
In his role, Hills is responsible for cleaning, setting up events, and helping move furniture. His commitment to these tasks ensures the College runs smoothly and all events are set up efficiently and effectively. His ability to handle multiple responsibilities with dedication and precision has made him an invaluable member of the CWI community.
Reflecting on his time at CWI, Hills shared that the people he works with make it a great place to be. "It is a great place to work because of the awesome co-workers I work with on a daily basis," he said. Hills also mentioned a standout moment when he received his first Staff of the Month recognition from Michael Allen, describing it as a very happy moment.
Hills’ positive experiences at CWI extend beyond his professional achievements. He enjoys the camaraderie and sense of community, particularly during staff BBQs, which he fondly remembers as some of his best experiences at the College. "I have the greatest experience of being at a great college that I can retire from one day," he expressed.
Outside of work, Hills enjoys spending time with his family. He grew up in Coffeyville, Kansas, and moved to Idaho in 2002. He married his wife, Nicki, in 2004, and they have two teenagers, Breianna (15) and Bryson (13). His family is his world, and he cherishes the time spent with them. Hills enjoys going to the Meridian Speedway with his son, Bryson, and hanging out with his daughter, Breianna.
Hills’ dedication to his work, his positive attitude, and his commitment to the CWI community make him a deserving recipient of Staff of the Month award for July 2024. Congratulations to Russell Hills for his outstanding contributions to CWI.
Kifer Named June 2024 Staff of the Month
Josh Kifer, Security Administrator, has been named Staff of the Month for June 2024. Kifer has been a dedicated member of College of Western Idaho (CWI) community since 2014, where he initially served as the contracted Security Manager until 2021 before transitioning to his current role.
Jennifer Cooley, who nominated Kifer, highlighted his exceptional representation of CWI's goals and core values. "Josh has a genuine passion for helping members of the CWI community and addressing safety concerns with the utmost respect and care," she stated. Jennifer praised Josh's outstanding customer service and eagerness to assist, noting his ability to handle a wide range of responsibilities, from activating new employee badges and issuing keys to performing welfare checks and ensuring safety in various locations.
Cooley further emphasized Kifer's commitment to the security and compliance of the College, saying, "Josh has been a huge help to our team throughout his years both as a CWI employee and as a contractor with our security vendor. Security and compliance are not always topics that bring us joy, but knowing Josh has a passion for the safety of the entire CWI community and that he goes above and beyond in maintaining the extensive regulatory compliance reporting for our campus makes him an ideal candidate for Staff of the Month."
In his role as Security Administrator, Kifer assists in managing the Security department and oversees Clery Compliance for the College. His dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the CWI community is evident in his daily work and interactions with students, staff, faculty, and guests.
Reflecting on his time at CWI, Kifer shared the people are what drew him to the College and what continues to inspire him. "I figured out early how great the staff and people are. Made each day easy to be engaged with. Working with Facilities and Security, I found my 'flock' of people," he explained. Kifer holds a degree in Graphic Design and Oil Painting from North Idaho College and has been in the security industry since 2002.
Kifer's experiences at CWI have provided him with many memorable moments, including some unexpected and humorous incidents. "In Security, I get to remember all of the wild things that happen on campus. Like when a plane landed at the NCAB entrance and proceeded to take out all of our light poles with its wings. Or the burning R2D2 unit beeping through the NMEC hallways while shooting out flames. Stuff you look back and realize you couldn't make up the story on a good day," he recounted.
Outside of work, Kifer enjoys a unique and niche hobby of restoring vintage poker chips from the 70s and 80s. He currently has approximately 100,000 poker chips in his basement. Kifer was born and raised in Boise, Idaho, and is a native Idahoan.
Kifer's dedication to his role and his positive impact on the CWI community make him a deserving recipient of the Staff of the Month award for June 2024. Congratulations to Josh Kifer for his outstanding contributions to the College.
Jenkins Named May 2024 Staff of the Month
Amy Jenkins, Coordinator for the Center for New Directions at the Work-Based Learning Center, has been named Staff of the Month for May 2024. Since joining College of Western Idaho (CWI) in September 2023, Jenkins has made a significant impact on both students and colleagues through her dedication, positive attitude, and willingness to take on new challenges.
Jenkins was nominated by Glenn Karn, who praised her as an Administrative Assistant for Workforce Development. Karn highlighted Jenkins' ability to learn quickly and handle frequent inquiries with ease. "Amy easily tackled the challenge of learning our most frequent questions and being able to navigate basic inquiries with ease. She has now proven her ability to go above and beyond by taking on new challenges and engaging in process improvements," Karn noted. She emphasized her reliability and enthusiasm, stating, "Amy is the first to volunteer and step in when other team members are out. She is reliable and consistently willing to give her best effort."
One of Jenkins' most notable achievements has been her work with the Work-Based Learning Center. Karn mentioned, "Most recently, Amy took on the challenge of learning how to navigate inquiries for our Work-Based Learning Center and continues to help their team navigate the increasing communication needs. In addition to handling daily communication, she has also proved capable of assisting in flyer creation, conducting student survey phone calls, and looking for process and document improvements within our departments to help increase our quality of service."
Jenkins' positive attitude and dependability have made her a valuable member of the Workforce Development and Work-Based Learning Center teams. "Amy has consistently shown she is willing to take on new opportunities and does so with a level of enthusiasm that makes it impossible not to root for her. She has proved through her engagement, positive attitude, and dependability that she is a valuable member of the team. We are grateful for her contribution," Karn concluded.
Jenkins’ journey to CWI was driven by her passion for higher education and her desire to continue her career path in this field. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Management with a specialization in Marketing & Publicity from Central Washington University (CWU). Before joining CWI, Jenkins’ worked as a Secretary Senior for the World Languages & Cultures department at CWU for five years. Her background in higher education and her experience in administrative roles have equipped her with the skills and knowledge to excel in her current position.
Reflecting on her time at CWI, Jenkins expressed her appreciation for the supportive and collaborative environment. "I enjoy working at CWI because of the challenge of my role and the opportunities I get every day to help people. I have coworkers in and out of my department that appreciate the effort I put in to give them my best work so they can be successful in their jobs helping students," Jenkins shared.
Jenkins also values the personal growth she has experienced at CWI. "I have met some amazing people and have grown to love the Treasure Valley," she said. Originally from the greater Seattle area, Jenkins moved to Central Washington for school, where she met her husband. They moved to the Treasure Valley to continue her husband's education while raising their two-year-old daughter.
Outside of work, Jenkins enjoys playing and biking with her daughter, golfing, playing video games with friends, and gardening. "When I had a garden, I highly enjoyed planting flowers and growing fruits and vegetables," she mentioned.
Jenkins’ dedication to her work and her positive impact on her colleagues and the students she supports make her a deserving recipient of the Staff of the Month award for May 2024. Congratulations to Amy Jenkins for her outstanding contributions to CWI.
Matson Named April 2024 Staff of the Month
Sara Matson, Senior ERP Analyst in the Information Technology (IT) department, has been named Staff of the Month for April 2024. With nearly 16 years of dedicated service at College of Western Idaho (CWI), Matson has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence and passion for helping others.
Matson is an integral part of the Applications team in IT, where she works closely with end users to implement Colleague functionality and integrate third-party applications with Colleague and other systems. Additionally, she supports users through Help Desk tickets, ensuring application issues are resolved efficiently and effectively.
Elizabeth Ortiz Dominguez, who nominated Matson, shared her admiration for Matson’s dedication and friendly demeanor. "Sara is such a caring and respectful individual. I cannot say how friendly she always is when handling my Help Desk tickets. She goes above and beyond to make sure that the issues are always resolved. Sara takes the time to resolve the issues as soon as she can and even takes the time to personally reach out to make sure the issue was resolved," Ortiz Dominguez said. She recounted an instance where Matson’s proactive approach resolved a longstanding issue with Perceptive Content linking. "Sara reached out to me one day and got right on top of getting it resolved as it had been sitting out there for a while. She even kept the ticket open for a few extra days to ensure it was resolved and it was not a temporary fix," she added.
Matson’s journey at CWI began in 2008 when she joined as the first Senior Accountant in the Business Office. Her experience and skills quickly led her to transition to an analyst role within IT in 2013. Reflecting on her career path, Matson shared, "My first job after graduating from college was working as an Accountant at College of Idaho. When I saw a job posting for a similar position at CWI, I was excited for an opportunity to create the Business Office department. I knew from working at College of Idaho that I valued the role of higher education in people’s lives and wanted to continue to be a part of that."
Sara holds a bachelor’s degree in Business with an emphasis on Accounting and Finance from Concordia University, Portland. Her background in accounting and her experience at CWI have provided her with a unique perspective and skill set that she applies to her current role in IT.
One of Matson’s most memorable experiences at CWI was her first day on the job. "My first day was June 30, 2008, the last day of the accounting fiscal year. My previous job also used Colleague, so I was feeling very confident on day one, but that quickly changed when I was handed a disc to install QuickBooks on my computer and was tasked with closing out the fiscal year. I had no idea how to use QuickBooks and worked very quickly to get everything imported into Colleague so that I could get back to knowing what I was doing!" she recounted. This experience highlighted Sara’s adaptability and problem-solving skills.
Matson also shared fond memories of working in the Business Office, including lively Friday afternoons filled with music, hula hoop competitions, kazoo parades, and even a puzzle room for meetings and breaks. These experiences contributed to a positive and collaborative work environment that Sara cherishes.
Outside of work, Matson enjoys a variety of hobbies, including home improvement projects, baking (especially cookies), playing tennis with her family, and riding her bike. She grew up in Boise, Idaho, and attended college in Portland, Oregon. Sara and her husband, Mike, a fourth-grade teacher, have been married for almost 20 years. They have two children and a dog named Bo, whom they adopted from a shelter a little over a year ago.
Matson’s dedication to her work and her ability to foster positive relationships with her colleagues make her a deserving recipient of Staff of the Month award for April 2024. Her commitment to helping others and her passion for her role at CWI are truly commendable. Congratulations to Sara Matson for her outstanding contributions to CWI.
Grayson Named March 2024 Staff of the Month
Heather Grayson, Director of Student Support Services in the Student Affairs department, has been named Staff of the Month for March 2024. Grayson has been a dedicated member of College of Western Idaho (CWI) since 2011, and her contributions have significantly impacted CWI.
Grayson's responsibilities encompass leading three critical departments: Student Disability Services, Testing Services, and Veterans & Military Family Services. Her role involves hiring, training, and supervising staff, and providing the support they need to succeed in their roles. Additionally, Heather serves as the Title IX Deputy Coordinator for Pregnancy and Parenting, further demonstrating her commitment to supporting the diverse needs of CWI students.
Janette Lovell, a former sign language interpreter and current student, nominated Grayson for this honor, highlighting her exceptional leadership and supportive nature. Lovell shared, "Heather is an incredible leader and boss. She is attentive and has a wealth of knowledge, always willing to provide wisdom and knowledge as she constantly learns and grows in her field. Her experience as both a leader and team member, along with her soft skills, allows her to lead with grace, humor, and encouragement for self-discovery and a good work ethic."
Lovell's nomination also emphasized Grayson's dedication to her team and students. "Heather allowed us autonomy to work within our field, granting me much reassurance when presented with challenges. I independently learned so much while working with her and grew in self-confidence. She was attentive and patient with students, ensuring they felt included and valued. The student success rate for those coming through our office was encouraging, thanks to Heather's belief that every individual is important," she added.
Grayson's journey at CWI began as an Enrollment Specialist in Student Disability Services, a brand-new position at the time. She played a crucial role in building the department from scratch, eventually advancing to the role of Senior Coordinator. Her leadership skills and dedication led to her current position as Director, where she oversees multiple departments and continues to make a positive impact on the college community.
Reflecting on her career path, Grayson mentioned, "A career in higher education was always what I wanted. During my time as an undergrad, I actively participated in campus life and developed a strong interest in the field. After working in the non-profit world, I wanted to return to education, and my close friends who were professors encouraged me to apply for a position at CWI. The rest is history!"
Grayson holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Boise State University and a master’s degree in Adult Organizational Learning and Leadership from University of Idaho, along with an Academic Certification in Human Resource Development. Her educational background and professional experiences have equipped her with the skills to excel in her role and make a significant difference at CWI.
One of Grayson's most memorable accomplishments at CWI was achieving the director position, a personal goal she had been working towards. "Coming from a family where leadership was valued — my dad led the Human Resources department at a large army installation in South Korea — it held a special importance for me. While I miss him dearly since his passing in 2017, I know he would be incredibly proud of this accomplishment," Grayson shared.
Grayson also highlighted several milestones in CWI's growth and development, including the College's accreditation, branding changes, and the expansion of Student Affairs. She expressed her excitement for future developments, such as the new buildings and the upcoming mascot.
Outside of work, Heather enjoys concerts, music festivals, and traveling. She grew up in South Korea and recently married in Kauai and honeymooned in Australia. Grayson and her husband have a beloved dog named Cozee, who brings joy to their lives.
Grayson's dedication to her work, her team, and the students at CWI makes her a deserving recipient of the Staff of the Month award for March 2024. Congratulations to Heather Grayson for her outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to student success at the CWI.
Dion Selected as February 2024 Staff of the Month
Cindy Dion, Faculty Services Coordinator in Center for Teaching and Learning, has been named Staff of the Month for February 2024. Dion has been with College of Western Idaho (CWI) since July 2022, and in her relatively short time here, she has made significant contributions to the institution.
Dion 's role involves coordinating the Letters of Teaching Appointments for faculty each semester, collecting credentialing documents for new and continuing faculty, and spearheading the onboarding and training for new faculty. Her responsibilities are crucial to the smooth functioning of the academic schedule and the professional integration of new faculty members into the CWI community.
Annie Estvold, Department Chair of Social Sciences, who nominated Dion, praised her dedication and positive attitude, stating, "Cindy is a person who has a tough and important job, and she always does it with a smile on her face! Cindy plays an important role in our semester schedules, and there are so many moving parts to making sure every class has a time and space. There have been several instances where I have needed to make changes down to the wire, and Cindy has never once made me feel bad or like I am inconveniencing her. Her positive energy is contagious and welcomed during times of stress."
In addition to her work with scheduling, Dion has recognized the need for a more intentional and ongoing onboarding process for new faculty. She has taken the initiative to meet with various stakeholders across campus to gather insights and feedback on what should be included in the onboarding experience. "When starting this initiative, Cindy made time to meet with different folks across campus to learn from them what they believed to be important to include in the onboarding experience. Rather than tackle this completely on her own, she was open to hearing from others. I believe this intentional approach will result in an amazing and innovative onboarding experience for our new faculty," Estvold added.
Dion's approach exemplifies several of CWI's core values. She is not only dedicated to her work but also to creating a supportive and collaborative environment for her colleagues. "Overall, Cindy is an integral part of CWI, and she manages to represent several CWI Core Values while doing her work. She is very deserving of recognition," Estvold concluded.
Dion was drawn to CWI because of its mission to support students and the local community. She shared, "I love supporting people who support students. Our faculty work hard for our students, and I want to help support them in any way I can." Her background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and an Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Puget Sound. Before joining CWI, Cindy was a teacher and instructional coach in the K-12 education system.
Reflecting on her time at CWI, Dion mentioned working at the College has given her a deeper understanding and appreciation of higher education. She also values the opportunities for personal growth and development that come with the dynamic environment at CWI. "CWI cares about students. I love working with people that want students to succeed," Dion said.
Outside of work, Dion enjoys a variety of hobbies. She loves reading mystery books, gardening, bird watching, and is learning how to play pickleball with her husband. Dion grew up in Nampa, went away to college, and returned to raise her family. Her husband is a teacher, and by August, both of their children will be in college.
Dion 's commitment to her work and the positive impact she has on her colleagues and the Institution make her a well-deserved recipient of the Staff of the Month award for February 2024. Congratulations to Cindy Dion for her outstanding contributions to CWI.
Rowing Selected as January 2024 Faculty of Distinction
Johnny Rowing, a dedicated faculty member in the Communication, Marketing, and Media Arts department, has been recognized as Faculty of Distinction for January 2024 at College of Western Idaho (CWI). Having joined CWI in the fall of 2009 and becoming a full-time faculty member in the spring of 2010, Rowing's long-standing commitment to the College and its students is evident in his teaching and contributions.
Rowing teaches a diverse range of courses, including Fundamentals of Oral Communication, Argumentation and Debate, Intercollegiate Speech and Debate, Communication and Culture, Interpersonal Communication, Public Speaking, Multimedia Storytelling, Introduction to Video Production, Introduction to Audio Production, and Introduction to Mass Media. Over the past year, he has focused on teaching Communication 101, 261, 268, 269, and 271.
Rowing’s teaching philosophy centers around the belief that gaining skills and knowledge opens important doors for self-growth, improved relationships, professional success, and social contributions. “I love playing a role in helping others to achieve any or all of those things,” Rowing said. His educational background includes an Associate of Arts from a community college in Music and General Education and a Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in Communication. Rowing’s community college experience holds a special place in his heart, as it was his favorite educational experience.
His dedication to CWI and its students is reflected in his commitment to providing a great education, challenging students for self-growth, and equipping them with professional skills. “CWI offers all of this at an affordable price,” Rowing said. He appreciates the wide variety of majors at CWI that allow students to focus their growth in areas of passion and talent. He believes in supporting students along the way and challenging them to do more than they think they can. “Knowing you can is more than half the battle in life.”
One of Rowing’s most rewarding experiences at CWI has been the opportunity to witness the growth and success of his students. While he acknowledges every semester brings new inspiring students, he recalls many encouraging and humbling moments. “Every semester is another opportunity for another ‘specific student’ to hallmark the life of an instructor,” he said. Rowing believes the continuous tap of excellence and potential in students are what sustains an instructor’s passion.
Rowing’s personal life is filled with love and creativity. Born in Indiana, he spent his middle and high school years in Southern California and his 20s in Northern California, where he also served in the Air Force. He is married to Shelli, whom he describes as the kindest person one could meet, and they have three daughters: Avalon, Ariel, and Elise. Each of his daughters inspires him in their unique ways. Johnny’s passion for music is evident in his spare time, where he enjoys playing and writing music, particularly focusing on lyrics.
Rowing’s recognition as Faculty of Distinction for January 2024 highlights his unwavering dedication to his students and the CWI community. His passion for teaching and commitment to student success make him a valued member of the College. His journey from community college to a fulfilling career at CWI serves as an inspiration to both his students and colleagues.
Navarre-Corisis Named Staff of the Month for January 2024
Dani Navarre-Corisis, the Research Analyst for Instruction in the Institutional Research department, has been named the Staff of the Month for January 2024. Navarre-Corisis joined College of Western Idaho (CWI) in October 2019 and has since played a pivotal role in helping the institution become more data-informed.
Navarre-Corisis’s primary responsibilities involve supporting the Instructional Deans Group by conducting data analysis and creating visualized reports that provide meaningful insights into student success. Her efforts have led to the development of several important reports on course outcomes, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society student outcomes, and more. Navarre-Corisis has been integral in providing critical information to deans, department chairs, and faculty, enabling them to make data-driven decisions to enhance student outcomes and experiences.
Jordan Mendoza, who nominated Navarre-Corisis, highlighted her contributions, stating, “Dani's role as the embedded IR Analyst for instruction has been transformative. She has delivered numerous reports that have significantly informed our understanding of student outcomes. Her work on streamlining the annual operational report and assessment plan reporting during the strategic planning process has been invaluable. Dani’s leadership in the Program Prioritization initiative has introduced an evidence-backed and peer-reviewed framework that will help our leadership make more intentional programmatic decisions to better serve our students and the community.”
Navarre-Corisis’s dedication to her work is matched by her eagerness to learn and improve. Mendoza further added, “Dani is always so eager to learn and improve her processes. She is very inclusive of all stakeholders impacted by a project and manages to execute complex projects with remarkable efficiency. Her work ethic is amazing, and she is a fantastic teammate who goes out of her way to recognize the team on special occasions like birthdays, baby showers, and graduations. She is an all-around pleasant and inspiring person to work with.”
Before joining CWI, Navarre-Corisis had a diverse professional background. She holds a bachelor's degree from Gonzaga University and a certificate in Design Thinking. Her previous roles include working as a Data Analyst at Hewlett Packard, a medical device company focusing on respiratory solutions, and as a Business Strategy Consultant at an advertising agency serving clients such as Microsoft, VMware, and Alaska Airlines. This rich background has equipped her with the skills and insights necessary to excel in her role at CWI.
Reflecting on why she was drawn to CWI, Navarre-Corisis shared, “I was drawn to CWI because it is a public institution that exists to serve and benefit the local community. Having grown up with parents whose careers were in public service, I have always been drawn to working in the public sector. CWI provides its students and the community with meaningful opportunities for a quality education and the potential for personal and professional growth.”
Navarre-Corisis also praised the supportive and collaborative environment at CWI, particularly within the Institutional Effectiveness and Institutional Research teams. “There has not been a time where I have not felt supported by my team members. There is a constant willingness to help each other and go above and beyond what is required, as well as a drive to continuously improve as professionals,” she said.
Outside of work, Navarre-Corisis enjoys hiking in the foothills with her dog, reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends. She grew up in the Seattle area and moved to Boise in 2017, which is where her husband is from. They have one dog and three cats.
Navarre-Corisis’s impact on CWI and its community is profound. Her dedication to making impactful and positive changes through data-driven insights is a testament to her commitment to student success. Congratulations to Dani Navarre-Corisis for being recognized as the Staff of the Month for January 2024, celebrating her exceptional service and unwavering dedication.
Got AI? New Program Offering Prepares Students for an Artificial Intelligence Future
In a digital landscape that is constantly evolving, 2024 is experiencing a seismic shift in the technology sector. As reported by TheStreet.com, approximately 263,180 jobs have been displaced in the tech industry, with a remarkable 106,630 positions transitioning into Artificial Intelligence (AI)-focused roles. Recognizing the need to empower students with AI-related skills, thought leaders at College of Western Idaho (CWI) have created the Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing (AICC) program.
This isn’t the first time new technologies have revolutionized entire industries. Indeed, similar disruptions have stemmed from the introduction of the cotton gin, the telegraph, the automobile assembly line production model championed by Henry Ford, and of course the integration of computers in the late 70s. “Computers did not replace workers; rather, they redefined the job market. As a result, acquiring computer skills has become a non-negotiable and foundational demand for every professional,” said Scott Didriksen, instructor of AI and Software Development at CWI. “Similarly, AI is set to initiate a comparable workplace transformation,” said Didriksen.
The new Associate of Applied Science degree allows aspiring technologists to be part of this transformation and dive into the world of AI and Cloud Computing. It’s tailored for those craving data analytics, cloud services, and the ethical application of AI in business and cybersecurity contexts.
The curriculum, created through close collaboration with industry heavyweights, will prepare and empower students to spearhead innovation throughout their careers. Experience immersive, practical learning with proficient instructors who integrate real-world predicaments into the classroom.
Not only is CWI leading Idaho in its degree offerings, but also in its ethical integration of AI into the classroom. Liza Long, Assistant Professor of English at CWI, champion of AI-empowered pedagogy, and a proud recipient of the Generative AI in Higher Education Fellowship recently shared, "Students, when educated to harness AI in a responsible and ethical manner, are capable of delivering superior work. These competencies are essential in the contemporary workspace. Preparing our students for this reality aligns seamlessly with our college's mission.”
Whether you're deciphering complex data or safeguarding networks from cyber threats, CWI is the launchpad where passion ignites purpose. Here's a snapshot of the high-impact learning areas you'll explore:
- Ethical AI Implementation: Master the art of ethically leveraging AI in business and cybersecurity scenarios.
- AI-Driven Tools: Acquire expertise in using AI tools to sift through large data sets and convert them into actionable insights.
- Cloud Computing Skills: Develop a robust understanding of cloud infrastructure and services, with potential certifications in AWS Cloud, PCEP (Python), and CompTIA Data+.
- Hands-On Projects: Participate in practical projects that simulate real-world challenges, from crafting AI tools to analyzing cybersecurity threats.
- Industry-Relevant Skills: Build a comprehensive foundation in data analytics, cloud computing, and machine learning, preparing you for a spectrum of sought-after careers.
The Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing program is accepting applicant now for Fall 2024.
- Admissions Express Event: Aug. 5
- Admissions Deadline: Aug. 9
- Classes Begin: Aug. 19
- Registration Deadline: Aug. 21
Accelerate your journey to becoming a future-ready tech professional.
Seamless Start to Fall 2024
Get ready for Fall 2024 at College of Western Idaho (CWI)!
Fall 2024 semester is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome back our students!
Whether you're a new member of the CWI community or returning to complete your studies, we want to help you get off to a great start. Here are some important reminders and a checklist to ensure a smooth beginning to the semester.
Prepare for Class
- Visit myCWI online or with the CWI Mobile app for quick access to your Self-Service Toolkit, Blackboard, resources and services, announcements and more.
- Check your schedule in myCWI to review the location and format of your classes.
- Check your CWI student email.
- Come to class with the proper course materials.
- Visit the CWI Bookstore to purchase or rent textbooks.
- Pickup your order at the CWI Bookstore located at the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC).
- Any questions or concerns, please contact the CWI Bookstore at 208.562.2402 or bookstore@cwi.edu.
- Check the Academic Calendar for a list of important dates to remember — including the due date for tuition and fees, Friday, Aug. 16.
- Questions? For course-specific questions, email your instructor or advisor.
Start the Semester Strong
- Login to Blackboard.
- All courses that begin the week of Aug. 19 – 24, will be live and available on Blackboard the morning of Monday, Aug. 19.
- Fuel up with a FREE drink or smoothie during the first week of classes from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.! Services will be available:
- Monday, Aug. 19, at Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
- Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
- Wednesday, Aug. 21 at Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
- Thursday, Aug. 22 at Canyon County Center (CYNC)
Meet the New Mascot
CWI has a new mascot! Get a sneak peak and enter for your chance to win limited edition Otters gear, now through Sept. 30.
Student Services
- For other questions, contact One Stop Student Services online, by phone, and in-person.
Here's to starting a successful semester!
