CWI News – Dec. 5, 2025
Spotlight
GO TEAM Therapy Dogs visited campus during Crunch Week, giving students, staff, and faculty a chance to unwind, recharge, and enjoy some much-needed furry comfort. Drop-in sessions at APIN and NCAB drew steady crowds and offered a calming break from finals prep stress.
Special shoutout to the CWI Learning Commons team, Student Engagement, and Risk Management for organizing and supporting this week’s Crunch Week events.
News Highlights
Ford Idaho Center Conveyance
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Thursday, Dec. 4, to approve the conveyance of the Ford Idaho Center to the College.
Under CWI’s stewardship, the Ford Idaho Center property, which is 90 acres and includes an arena, amphitheater, and horse park, will continue to host public events such as concerts and rodeos, while expanding academic programs and hands-on learning opportunities for students.
“This is a transformational opportunity for our students and our community,” said CWI Board Chair Jim Reames. “Since the City first approached us late in 2024, we've been doing due diligence leading up to public outreach over the past five months, and this is the result of that work. By bringing the Ford Idaho Center into CWI’s Nampa Campus, we can preserve a beloved community venue while also creating new pathways for education, careers, and economic growth for generations to come.”
This conveyance ensures the Ford Idaho Center remains an accessible, vibrant public asset for generations, with future improvements and expanded resources for the community supported through public-private partnerships, CWI Foundation support, and other strategic partnerships.
“The conveyance of the Ford Idaho Center represents an exciting step forward that will create new opportunities for our students and strengthen our connection with the community we serve,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “I am grateful to Mayor Debbie Kling and the Nampa City Council for their leadership and partnership in conveying the Ford Idaho Center to the College.”
Past Updates
Dec. 2, 2025
On Dec. 1, the Nampa City Council voted to convey the Ford Idaho Center to CWI. This marks the second approval after the city identified a title irregularity and an unrecorded deed dating back more than 20 years following the previous vote. The next step in conveyance is approval from the CWI Board of Trustees to accept the property and approve the associated agreements.
Under CWI’s stewardship, the Ford Idaho Center property and venues will continue to host public events like concerts and rodeos, while tapping into potential academic programs and applied learning opportunities for students. This transition ensures the center remains an accessible, vibrant community asset for generations to come.
CWI has plans for fundraising, public-private partnerships, and other funding sources to support the Ford Idaho Center, with no planned increases in tuition or property taxes.
Overview
Several key factors are driving CWI's consideration of the Ford Idaho Center conveyance:
- Growth Opportunity
- Currently serving more than 31,000 students, this is an opportunity for future growth for CWI, as well as Nampa and the entire region.
- CWI will be positioned to serve the growing population and unlock the full potential of the Ford Idaho Center.
- Idaho Higher Education Peers & CWI
- Today, six of the eight public higher education institutions in Idaho (colleges and universities) currently own similar venues on their campuses.
- Compared to peer institutions with similar numbers of students served, CWI’s campus has a much smaller footprint measured in acres; this conveyance will expand the campus footprint.
- Forward Planning
- This conveyance will double the size of CWI's Nampa Campus and ensure adequate space for compatible growth around the College for generations to come.
- CWI will continue to strengthen its partnership with the Nampa community through hosting cultural activities, sporting events, and community gatherings while seeking new opportunities for growth and engagement.
Future Vision
CWI’s vision is to activate the Ford Idaho Center as a hub for education, applied learning, and community life. Plans include:
- Expanded Academic Offerings
- Launch of new programs, potentially in areas such as event and venue management, early childhood education, and agriculture.
- Enhanced Hands-On Learning
- Internships and jobs for students with on-site businesses and events.
- Growth of Recreational & Athletic Opportunities
- Development of recreational, competitive, and community sports.
- Increased Community Services
- Exploration of new amenities such as a healthcare facility, athletics recreation center, and other amenities for the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How will this impact CWI’s current operations?
- CWI will continue to partner with Oak View Group who currently operates the Ford Idaho Center. This allows the College to effectively outsource the operations of the facility, minimizing the impact on the College’s day-to-day operations.
- How will CWI fund improvements to the Ford Idaho Center?
- CWI will leverage various funding sources such as philanthropic funds, revenue generated through public-private partnerships, and other sources available to the Ford Idaho Center for improvements.
- Will CWI sell the property?
- No, CWI will be contractually barred from selling the property without the consent of the City of Nampa.
- Will the Ford Idaho Center remain available for public events?
- Yes, public events such as the Snake River Stampede, concerts, and horse events will continue at the Ford Idaho Center as they have in the past under the management of Oak View Group.
- Didn’t the Nampa City Council vote to convey the Ford Idaho Center in October?
- Yes, the Nampa City Council originally approved the conveyance on Oct. 6, 2025. A second vote was required after city officials discovered a title irregularity and an unrecorded deed dating back more than 20 years. Out of an abundance of caution and to ensure transparency, the council held a new public hearing and took a new vote on Dec. 1, again approving the conveyance of the Ford Idaho Center.
Campus Development Update – Fall 2025
College of Western Idaho (CWI) continues to transform with the recent opening of the Nampa Campus Health & Science Building (NCHS) and the Nampa Campus Agricultural Sciences Complex — two new facilities already bringing new energy and a strengthened sense of community to our Nampa campus. These additions reflect the collective effort of the College’s commitment to expanding access and enhancing learning environments.
And this is just the beginning. Construction is moving full speed ahead on two major projects that will continue to shape CWI’s future:
- CapEd Student Success Center – Construction remains on schedule for a Fall 2026 opening, creating a new centralized hub for student resources and support services.
- CWI Boise – Development is officially underway on CWI’s future Boise location, which will become a dynamic, mixed-use campus and community destination with a planned opening in Fall 2027.
These developments reflect the College’s mission to provide affordable, accessible education in dynamic spaces designed to support student success. Visit the Campus Development page for full updates, photos, and project timelines.
Pre-Mechatronics Program Highlighted on National Stage
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) work to support adult learners and strengthen Idaho’s workforce received national attention this month. CWI Executive Director of Strategic Projects, Jillana Finnegan; Adult Education teacher, Jimmy Hallyburton; and Micron Technology’s Director of Workforce Strategies, Melanie Lewis, were invited to present at the 2025 National Training Institute (NTI), hosted by the National Association of State Directors of Adult Education.
Building Pathways Through Partnership
Their session focused on the development of CWI Adult Education's new Pre-Mechatronics course and how the collaboration between CWI and Micron is creating a clear pathway into high-demand technical careers. NTI brings together adult education leaders from across the country, and being asked to present is a recognition of programs demonstrating strong results. Idaho’s model stood out because it connects adult learners directly to real career pathways shaped with direct input from employers.
Participants noted the same themes that guide Idaho’s work: strong employer relationships, clear communication about workforce needs, and meeting students where they are. Many also highlighted the value of designing training alongside industry partners, so students gain skills they can put to use immediately.
Preparing Students for Mechatronics Careers
Pre-Mechatronics grew out of that exact approach. The program is an entry-level, college-readiness course designed to help students step confidently into CWI’s Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program by building the academic, language, and technical foundation they need. It was created using funding from the Workforce Development Council’s $4.2 million grant to CWI, which aims to double the size of the mechatronics program to meet growing workforce demands in advanced manufacturing. To make sure these opportunities are accessible, Adult Education developed Pre-Mechatronics for adult learners and English language learners who may have strong hands-on experience but need additional support in math, English, or industry-specific vocabulary before entering the mechatronics program.
The class is free, interactive, and hands-on. Students learn mechatronics and manufacturing terminology, build core technical and math skills, and complete an OSHA credential while also receiving help navigating college systems. Field trips to Micron and to the mechatronics program at the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC) give them a real look at what work in manufacturing or mechatronics feels like day-to-day. For many, the experience also strengthens their applications for Micron’s apprenticeship program, a paid training opportunity that supports students while they work through the mechatronics program.
Anyone interested in manufacturing, engineering, automation, or mechatronics can apply. As part of enrollment, placement assessments help determine each student’s current skills and pinpoint areas that may need strengthening. If a learner needs additional preparation before starting, Adult Education provides guidance and support so they can enter the class ready and continue moving toward the mechatronics program with confidence.
For more information about Pre-Mechatronics course, please contact Jimmy Hallyburton at jimmyhallyburton@cwi.edu.
Fall 2025 OtterTank Highlights Innovation
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Nampa Campus Academic Building buzzed with creativity and ambition as entrepreneurs from across campus and the community gathered for the Fall 2025 OtterTank Showcase and Competition on Nov. 21. Hosted by the CWI Entrepreneur Lab, students, staff, and community members were invited to pitch their business ideas, connect with local business leaders, and compete for prize funding.
“This competition really captures what we’re all about at CWI — giving people the space to explore ideas, feel supported, and try something new,” said Kenton Lee, Director of the CWI Entrepreneur Lab. “OtterTank shows just how much talent and creativity there is in our community when we give entrepreneurs the right tools and encouragement.”
Participants delivered fast-paced elevator pitches and shared venture displays, giving attendees and judges a firsthand look at the creativity thriving within the Entrepreneur Lab. Audience members also played a role, voting for their favorite idea to determine the evening’s Crowd Favorite award.
Grand Prize Winner – $1,000
Jared Lopez – CWI Admissions Counselor
Business Idea: Afterschool educational activity programming designed to support students in socio-economic hardship, migrant families, or those in need of additional enrichment. Lopez’s venture focuses on building accessible, high-impact learning opportunities that help close gaps and foster confidence.
$500 Winners
Alejandro Ortiz – Powersports and Small Engine Repair student
Calvin Shwarz – CWI student
$250 Winners
Lizzy Gaines – Heavy Equipment Technician student
Maegan Rupe and Seth Hoover – Administrative Assistant III and Business student
Kevin Irankunda – Computer Science student
Crowd Favorite – $250
Fabrice Mugabo – Cybersecurity student
CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab operates as a nexus for innovation, offering students and the community the tools, resources, and mentorship required to thrive in the fast-moving entrepreneurial landscape. OtterTank not only celebrates creativity and drive but also strengthens connections between the College and the local business community through hands-on support, including pitch preparation, one-on-one coaching with staff, and continued engagement through cohorts.
Ready, Set, Thrive!
Get ready for an exciting new semester at College of Western Idaho (CWI). The Office of Student Engagement is thrilled to offer new students the opportunity to prepare themselves for the Spring 2026 semester ahead.
Join us for Ready, Set, Thrive! This multi-location event is designed to help students get organized before the first day of the new academic semester by offering support in locating classrooms based on student class schedules at select campus locations.
Ready, Set, Thrive!
Friday, Jan. 16
1 – 4 p.m.
Campus Stations:
- Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Student Commons
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), lobby
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NMEC), lobby
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to kick-start your college journey! We can’t wait to welcome you to the CWI community!
To learn more, contact Student Engagement at studentengagement@cwi.edu.
Apply Now for CWI’s Spring 2026 Honors Program
Looking for a college experience that challenges you and sets you up for success? The Honors Program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is now accepting applications for Spring 2026 and looking for incoming or first-semester students to join a community of motivated learners.
The Honors Program isn't just another line on your transcript – it is a chance to grow academically, connect with peers, and build skills that will benefit you now and in the future.
Honors students enjoy:
- Intimate Learning Environments. Smaller, specialized classes taught by long-time faculty members, designed specifically with Honors students in mind.
- A built-in community. Motivated, high-achieving peers who share your academic ambitions. You will collaborate, study, and grow alongside students who are just as driven as you are.
- A $1,000 scholarship. The scholarship continues even when your honors credits have been earned.
- Personalized support. A dedicated faculty advisor who will guide you through your academic path and help you reach your goals.
- Recognition that matters. Earn honors regalia at graduation and see your achievement acknowledged on both your transcript and diploma.
- Guaranteed transfer advantages. Gain automatic acceptance into honors programs at Boise State University, Idaho State University, University of Idaho, or The College of Idaho when you are ready to continue your education.
The Honors Program is designed to challenge and support you. As an Honors student, you will:
- Maintain full-time enrollment (12 credits per semester).
- Complete 10 credits of honors-designated classes with a C or higher, either through honors-designated courses or through a “build-your-own honors program” through contracts with faculty.
- Maintain a 3.25 GPA each semester.
- Attend one CWI-sponsored event per semester.
- Check in each semester to report your GPA and any changes to financial aid or degree program.
These expectations keep you on track while getting the support you need to thrive.
Don't miss this chance to elevate your college experience. Applications for Spring 2026 are open now!
If you're a full-time, degree-seeking student in your first or second semester, you’re invited to apply here.
Your future starts here — make it an Honors future.
CWI Joined Community Efforts at Canyon County Festival of Trees
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is proud to take part in the Canyon County Festival of Trees, a long-standing community tradition dedicated to raising funds for homebound seniors throughout Canyon County. Since 1994, the festival has brightened the holiday season with beautifully decorated trees and family-friendly activities while generating vital support for the Meals on Wheels programs serving Nampa, Caldwell, Greenleaf, Middleton, Melba, Parma, and surrounding communities.
CWI’s contribution this year featured a one-of-a-kind holiday tree inspired by students from the Horticulture Technology program, designed to celebrate both gardening and the cultivation of growing minds. The theme, Springtime Prep, highlighted the joy of preparing for a season of renewal. This 7.5-foot Valencia fir tree glowed with 800 color-changing twinkle LED lights and was adorned with vegetable ornaments, galvanized buckets, gardening tools, miniature greenhouse, seed packets, and rustic finishing touches. Horticulture Technology students, Amalie Bolinder and Victoria Boucher, led the design and planning of the display, which also included a $100 gift card to the CWI Annual Plant Sale.
“It was so fun to watch the Horticulture students come together and decorate a tree for this year’s Canyon County Festival of Trees,” said Assistant Dean of Agricultural Sciences, Andrea Schumaker. “I love watching the students share the joys of the green industry with others during this holiday season, and what a wonderful way to highlight it! Their garden-themed tree turned out beautiful!"
Take Part in the Annual Giving Tree
Help bring holiday cheer to children in the Treasure Valley by participating in College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) annual Giving Tree. The Psychology Club is partnering with CASA of Southwest Idaho, an independent non-profit organization representing the best interests of children in foster care.
Their goal is to collect 500 toys for children across the Treasure Valley, from infants to age 16. Each Giving Tree features tags with a child’s age and gender to help guide your gift selection.
New, unwrapped gifts will be collected now through Thursday, Dec. 11.
Trees are located near the security desks at the following campus locations:
Contact Heather Schoenherr at heatherschoenherr@cwi.edu with questions or to learn more.
Student Nurses Association Collecting Food for Boise Rescue Mission
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Student Nurses Association is helping support local families this holiday season through a campus-wide food drive benefiting the Boise Rescue Mission. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to donate nonperishable food items Dec. 1 – 13 at designated drop-off locations on both the Nampa and Boise campuses.
Donation bins will be clearly marked and available at:
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Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), lobby
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Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), front entrance
The Boise Rescue Mission has identified several high-need items, including canned proteins, canned fruits and vegetables, soups, pasta, rice, peanut butter, coffee, cereals, oats, and individually wrapped snacks. All contributions will help provide meals and essential support for individuals and families in need throughout the Treasure Valley.
For questions or additional information, please contact the Student Nurses Association at snaclub@cwi.edu.
Icy Conditions Safety Tips and Information
As the winter season approaches, College of Western Idaho (CWI) takes proactive measures to ensure the safety of its campus locations by diligently keeping them clear of ice and snow. However, winter conditions can be dangerous and require everyone's attention to prevent slipping and falling. We are all responsible for exercising good judgment when walkways and roadways may be icy or slippery.
While our Campus Safety and Security team strives to remove snow and ice from roadways, parking lots, and sidewalks, it is crucial for everyone to be prepared for potentially slippery surfaces. By being proactive and cautious, we can collectively contribute to maintaining a safe and secure campus during these challenging winter months.
Keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Anticipate slippery conditions: Ice and snow or water-covered ice may be present on sidewalks, pathways, entrances, roadways, and parking lots.
- Wear shoes or boots that provide traction: Neoprene and non-slip rubber soled footwear are best. Avoid shoes with smooth soles and heels. Remove ice cleats, athletic cleats, or spiked shoes before walking on smooth dry floors as they are extremely slippery on these surfaces.
- Walk SLOWLY: Plan extra time so you are not rushing.
- Be careful when you shift your weight. When stepping off a curb or getting into a car, be careful as shifting your weight may cause an imbalance and result in a fall.
- Avoid shortcuts: Shortcuts may be a good idea if you are in a hurry but are a bad idea if there is snow and ice on the ground. A shortcut path may be treacherous as it is likely located where snow and ice removal are not possible.
- Walk like a penguin: Point your feet out slightly and shuffle. Spreading your feet out improves your stability. Bend slightly at the waist and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity over your feet as much as possible. Keep your hands out of your pockets and extend your arms out to your sides to maintain balance.
- Plan ahead: When walking on snow or ice on sidewalks or parking lots, walk cautiously. Look to see where your feet will move next to anticipate ice or an uneven surface. Occasionally scan from left to right to ensure you are not in the way of vehicles or other hazards.
- Look up: Be careful about what you walk under. Injuries can result from falling snow or ice as it blows, melts, or breaks away from awnings, buildings, etc.
- Use your eyes and ears: While seeing the environment is important, you also want to listen to approaching traffic and other noises. Avoid listening to music or engaging in conversation that prevents you from hearing oncoming traffic or snow removal equipment.
- Enter a building carefully: When you get to your destination, look at the floor as you enter. It may be wet and slippery from melted snow and ice.
- Use stair handrails: Ice and snow may be hiding on the stair steps making them slippery.
- Dress appropriately: Wear layers of clothing to stay warm and dry
- Anticipate ice: Be wary of thin sheets of ice that may appear as wet pavement (black ice). Often ice will appear in the morning in shady spots or where the sun shines during the day and melted snow refreezes at night.
As well, when driving, slow down and increase distances between vehicles/pedestrians. Stopping distances are longer on snow, ice, and snow or water-covered ice. Please be aware that when snow removal is required, parking spaces may be limited in some areas due to snow piles from plowing.
To report icy conditions on campus or if you have questions, please contact Campus Safety and Security at 208.562.3333 or security@cwi.edu.
2025 Holiday Check Processing Notice
Due to campus closures for Fall and Winter Breaks, College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Business Office will not issue employee reimbursement or vendor checks on the following dates:
Nov. 24 – 28
Normal processing of checks will resume Dec. 4.
Dec. 22 – Jan. 2
Normal processing of checks will resume on Jan. 9.
If you have questions or are in need of more information, contact Accounts Payable at accountspayable@cwi.edu.