CWI News – Feb 7, 2024
News Highlights
Comfort for Chemo: Student Entrepreneurs Innovate for Cancer Treatment
Seth Hoover and Meagan Ruped stand together in front of a sweater, carefully arranged on a display that showcases their unique product prototype. Judges and attendees of the Entrepreneur Showcase and Competition, held by College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab (E-Lab), eagerly engage and ask questions about business plans, product development, and investment. At stake is a $1000 grand prize, to be awarded for the most innovative business concept.
Every entrepreneur that presents is eager to share their vision and many have been coached by CWI’s E-Lab, which partners with students and the community alike to facilitate success. With on-staff experts to help dig into business details, strengthen value propositions, and conduct hands-on experiments, dreamers like Hoover and Ruped have access to unparalleled resources to help them reach their goals.
Hoover is also a student in the Business program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) and works as an administrative assistant on the Admissions team. He and his fiancée, Meagan Ruped, have turned a deeply personal challenge into a meaningful business idea — one that aims to ease suffering for those undergoing cancer treatments.
The Inspiration Behind Their Business
In 2023, Ruped was diagnosed with breast cancer, a life-altering event that would ultimately lead to the creation of their business. "We came up with the idea for the Powerport Sweater as a potential solution to some of the struggles Meagan faced while undergoing treatment," said Hoover.
Breast cancer treatment can be grueling, with chemotherapy and radiation often leaving patients physically and emotionally drained. One of the common issues that patients like Ruped encounter is the lack of comfortable, stylish clothing that accommodates medical devices like the power port, an essential part of treatment. They realized that the market was lacking a product that addressed both the medical and emotional needs of those in treatment.
Their solution? A sweater designed to be both functional and fashionable, specifically tailored to women undergoing cancer treatment. “We wanted to make sure the sweater not only helped with the physical aspects of treatment, but also allowed patients to feel like themselves again, instead of just feeling like a patient,” said Hoover.
A Unique Approach to the Market
What sets their business apart from competitors is the balance they strive for between comfort, functionality, and style. Many products on the market are either medically focused or aesthetically pleasing, but few manage to combine both elements. Hoover and Ruped’s approach is about offering a product that doesn’t just solve a medical problem but also keeps the wearer’s dignity and personal style intact.
"Our primary focus is to create a product that maintains a sense of style while being optimized for those receiving treatment, all while keeping it affordable," Hoover said. It’s this commitment to both function and fashion that gives them confidence in their venture’s potential.
Reaching Customers and Making an Impact
When asked about their go-to-market strategy, Hoover and Ruped highlight their vision for how to get their product into the hands of those who need it most. The plan is to donate prototypes to hospitals to raise awareness and gather feedback. "If we could get the capital together, we’d love to get these prototypes into the hands of hospitals," said Hoover.
Their long-term vision is to launch their product online, with the ability to reach their customer base directly. But at its core, the success of their business won’t be measured by sales alone — it’s about the impact they make on people’s lives. “If we can make just one patient feel less like a patient, that will be a success for us,” Hoover said.
They also plan to expand their customer base beyond just patients. “While our primary target is women undergoing cancer treatment, we also see our sweater being useful for other groups, like breastfeeding mothers.”
Overcoming Challenges with Compassion and Perseverance
The entrepreneurial journey however is rarely a smooth ride. Hoover and Ruped are no strangers to challenges, though they remain determined. “The biggest threat to our business model? Ourselves!” Hoover admits. But rather than be discouraged, the couple has learned to embrace this reality and view challenges as opportunities for growth.
A significant lesson they’ve learned so far is the importance of adaptability and flexibility. “We plan to stay calm, stay focused, and be flexible as the market changes,” says Hoover. They also lean heavily on the expertise available to them, including from the Entrepreneur Lab, professors in the Business program, and especially Meagan’s background as a former area manager in retail. “Meagan has a deep familiarity with the industry and is always up to date on current fashion trends.”
Looking Ahead: Making a Lasting Impact
As they look to the future, Hoover and Ruped’s long-term goal is clear: they want to create an organization that focuses on reducing the pain and discomfort of cancer treatment. They envision a business that continues to help people feel less like patients and more like individuals. “If we can resolve some of their suffering, we believe we’ll be able to make a difference in a lot of lives,” Hoover said.
As participants in the CWI Entrepreneur Lab and with Hoover gaining valuable business education, they’re well on their way to creating something that goes beyond business — it’s a mission to make a real difference in the lives of those facing some of life’s toughest battles.
With a blend of compassion, creativity, and a personal understanding of customer needs, this couple’s innovative approach to cancer care apparel has the potential to leave a lasting legacy. Happily, the judges at the Entrepreneur Showcase agree and send them home with the $1000 grand prize.
For those passionate about business, both the Entrepreneur Lab and Business program are ready to help you launch.
Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Back the Idaho Shakespeare Festival
Join College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Visiting Artist Series in welcoming the Idaho Shakespeare Festival’s (ISF) Shakespearience program as they perform the play, Twelfth Night, and host an acting workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 18.
Students and community members are invited to take part as the Idaho Shakespeare Festival breathes life into one of Shakespeare’s timeless classics, Twelfth Night, with a captivating blend of tradition and modernity to present the beloved tale.
Synopsis
“Better a witty fool, than a foolish wit”
Shipwreck, disguise, love triangle, mistaken identity, mischievousness, and… yellow stockings? This is the recipe for one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedic romances. Twelfth Night brings to life the story of Orsino, the Duke of Illyria, and his deep love for Olivia. Meanwhile, the shipwrecked Viola, separated from her twin brother Sebastian, disguises herself as a man, takes the name of Cesario, enters Orsino’s service, and is ordered to woo Olivia for him. Ironically, Olivia falls in love with Cesario (who is really Viola disguised) and Cesario (or Viola) falls in love with Orsino. Add to the mix twin sibling confusion when Sebastian surfaces and falls for Olivia! Complicated? Maybe. But then again, so is love.
Following the performance, the ISF cast and crew will host a free, hour-long acting workshop for audience members.
SHAKESPEARIENCE: TWELFTH NIGHT
Tuesday, Feb. 18
Performance: 6 – 7 p.m.
Acting Workshop: 7 – 8 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building, Room 122
The performance is suitable for all ages and will be sign-interpreted (ASL).
CWI’s Visiting Artist Series is made possible through a grant from Idaho Commission on the Arts, which is supported by National Endowment for the Arts. Visiting Artist Series events, featuring visual and performing artists, are free and open to the public.
For those with questions or need more information, please contact Brenda Fisher at brendafisher@cwi.edu.
Get Ready for Next Semester at Admissions Express!
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is hosting Admissions Express — an event to help answer questions and start new students off on the right foot before the next semester begins.
Admissions staff will be there to help guide you through the admissions process and answer questions.
ADMISSIONS EXPRESS
Thursday, March 6
6 – 8 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
What to expect at Admission Express:
- Apply for admissions
- Register for classes with Academic Advisors (limited appointments)
- Turn in required documentation
- Complete New Student Orientation
- Get answers about financial aid
- Obtain a Student ID
There will be information sessions beginning at 6:30 p.m for the following programs:
- Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology
- Collision Repair Technology
- Drafting Technology
- Engineering
- Heavy-Duty Truck Technician
- Machine Tool Technology
- Powersports & Small Engine Repair Technology
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
There will be information sessions beginning at 7:15 p.m for the following programs:
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact One Stop Student Services at 208.562.3000 or onestop@cwi.edu.
Young Named Faculty of Distinction for December 2024
Mindy Young, a Professor in the Computer Science and Information Technology Department at the College of Western Idaho (CWI), has been recognized as the Faculty of Distinction for December 2024. Her commitment to students, department, and the broader CWI community is evident in her service, teaching excellence, and contributions beyond the classroom.
Since joining CWI in Fall 2009, Young has been an integral part of the Network and System Administration Program, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her teaching. She also contributes significantly to the Cybersecurity and Cisco Network and Security courses, often taking on overload classes to meet departmental needs.
Young’s teaching philosophy is rooted in her passion for technology and its transformative impact on students’ lives. She emphasizes hands-on learning, ensuring that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical skills in installing, configuring, and managing networks and computer systems. This approach has proven effective, as many of her students graduate with industry certifications and secure employment that changes their lives and the lives of their families.
Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and extensive industry experience as a Computer System Administrator. Young holds several industry certifications and is a Microsoft Certified Trainer — qualifications that enhance her teaching and provide immense value to her students.
Young’s service to CWI extends beyond teaching. She has played a critical role in various committees, including the Promotions Committee and the Curriculum Committee. She has also been involved in network repairs, updates, and upgrades during the summer, showcasing her dedication to the operational excellence of CWI’s IT infrastructure.
Colleagues and students alike recognize Young for her caring nature, professionalism, and willingness to go the extra mile. Nominator David Kerr highlights her humility and reluctance to seek recognition, underscoring her focus on meaningful contributions over accolades. Her leadership as interim Department Chair and her high reputation with industry partners in the Treasure Valley further demonstrate her broad impact.
Young’s personal life is deeply rooted in family and community. Married with three children and two grandchildren, she enjoys spending time with her family, engaging in outdoor activities like camping, boating, and snow skiing. She also manages a small farm with a variety of animals, adding a unique dimension to her busy life.
Mindy Young’s recognition as the Faculty of Distinction for December 2024 is a testament to her exceptional dedication to her students, her colleagues, and the entire CWI community. Her contributions continue to shape the success of the IT programs at CWI, making a lasting impact on the Treasure Valley’s technological landscape.
A Surgical Success: How Nichelle Boyce Achieved Her Dreams With CWI
Resilient and determined, Nichelle Boyce, a graduate of College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Surgical Technology program, has turned challenges into opportunities. From teen motherhood to a thriving career, her journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of support in achieving dreams.
Boyce's drive to forge her own path, graduate ahead of schedule, and begin her journey into higher education was discovered as a teenager. At age 15, she discovered she was pregnant — a significant life change at any age, but especially so for one so young. Rather than being daunted and delaying her educational plans, Boyce did the opposite by moving her timeline up and heading off to college early.
A Rocky Beginning
Her first year was marked by rocky challenges — from being a mother amidst thousands of traditional freshman students to two hospital visits during final exams week — resulting in an incomplete semester and student loan debt.
“It was hard in lots of ways, including with friends. They’d want to go out and do things that I just couldn’t because I needed to be home with my kids,” Boyce said. “In addition to that, the relationship I was in had become very unhealthy. By the time I decided I needed to leave [the university], I had two children.”
Rather than completely giving up, Boyce reoriented and chose to attend CWI — looking back she believes this was the best choice she could have made. Not only did she find high-quality, caring faculty, but tuition was more affordable and access to scholarships and online classes helped her to be flexible.
Another differentiator between CWI and her previous university was the student body, many of whom were also “untraditional,” with differences in age, culture, life experiences, and socioeconomic status. “Because there is such a good mixture of students at CWI, there weren’t cliques like there can be in traditional institutions,” said Boyce. "If someone was struggling, almost everyone was willing to sit down and help them figure it out, and that was true in most of the classes.”
Support & Sacrifice
To make her educational aspirations a reality, Boyce balanced multiple jobs — all while being a single parent. In addition to hard-earned income, help also came in the form of the LTH Don’t Give Up Scholarship. Established by former CWI employee, Nikki Irving, its purpose is to help single parents achieve their dreams of going to college.
Boyce says because of scholarships like this she was able to remain debt-free. “I was able to get to where I wasn’t just surviving, but also even thriving. I could start to clear my mind and focus on being a mom and reaching my goals.”
Her path, however, had never been without sacrifice and her two young children were along for the ride. She remembers telling them, “I know you guys are sick of not being able to do so many things, but we still have a lot of goals to accomplish. How about when I’m done with school, we start saving for a trip to Disneyland?” The kids were all in!
Education Leads to Job Offers
After working through CWI’s Surgical Technology program, it came time for Boyce to start clinical rotations at local hospitals for on-the-job training. “I went to several different hospitals, and every single one of them offered me a job. I was able to start working before I even graduated.”
Now with the job that she had worked so hard for, it also came time to save. To help the kids see how they were progressing towards their Disneyland trip, she printed a simple chart for them to track progress. Every time they saved $100, her children would color in one of several pictured Disney characters.
“The kids kept at it. Finally, we got them all filled in and went to Disney! It was surreal because I never thought I'd be able to take my kids to do something like that,” she said.
For Boyce, another poignant moment came a few months after starting her career as a Surgical Technologist at a Boise hospital. “It took me a while to really comprehend everything that happened. I remember I was sitting there in my living room, and I was like, I can't believe that I can finish my shift, drop the kids off at school, and come to a home that’s ours and where all our stuff is,” said Boyce. “I don't have to worry about anybody hurting us and it feels safe. I feel safe, and I couldn’t believe I’d taken my kids to Disneyland!
Still Dreaming
On the College’s Nampa Campus, construction of the new Health and Sciences Building is well underway as the College expands to meet growing demand. At a ceremony marking the “topping off,” or placement, of the final metal beam, Boyce was invited to attend as an honored guest. Along with her two children, they had an opportunity to sign their names before the beam was lifted by a crane and secured into place. It was a significant moment for program faculty, state and local officials, and students alike, but especially so for the young surgical technologist and her children.
Boyce has long advocated for the education and experience available at CWI. Now, with her natural enthusiasm for surgical technology and the tools she prepares daily for life-saving surgeries — not to mention her gritty tenacity — her story is being featured for the trauma hospital, Saint Alphonsus.
Passionate about continuing to develop her education, her desire to dream big continues; “I’m thinking about going back to school for biomedical or mechanical engineering.” While she contemplates returning to school, hopefully she and her children also get to return to Disneyland.
Interested in a career in healthcare? Investigate opportunities through CWI’s Health Programs.
CWI Entrepreneur Lab Kicks Off Spring 2025 with Exciting Events
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab is kicking off the 2025 spring semester with a series of inspiring events designed to ignite entrepreneurial passion and equip participants with the tools needed to succeed. Whether you’re exploring the world of entrepreneurship for the first time or looking to expand your skills, February is packed with opportunities tailored for everyone.
With two incredible events scheduled, and available virtually, you can join the action from wherever you are. For more information or to sign up for these events, visit the Entrepreneur Lab. Don’t miss your chance to explore, connect, and take your ideas to the next level. Bring your curiosity, creativity, and big ideas — CWI will provide the rest, including the pizza!
Here’s what’s coming up at the Entrepreneur Lab:
First Steps
Friday, Feb. 7
3 – 4 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NCAB), 100B
This monthly session lays the foundation for turning ideas into reality. Whether you are curious about starting a business or ready to take the leap, this event will inspire you to take your first steps.
Speakers Jimmie and Sheryl Wisler, owners of International Minute Press in Nampa, will share their entrepreneurial journey. Since purchasing their print shop in 2021, they have grown the business by an impressive 70%. With backgrounds in operations, marketing, and management, their story is one of persistence and success, packed with insights to motivate your entrepreneurial aspirations.
Business Basics
Friday, Feb. 14
Noon – 1 p.m.
Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NCAB), 100B
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to build a solid foundation, this session is all about mastering the essentials. From business setup to record keeping and tax filing, guest speaker Joe Welker will guide you through the key strategies to help your business run smoothly.
This is your chance to gain actionable advice to ensure your entrepreneurial journey gets off to the right start.
Entrepreneur Lab Showcase & Competition
Thursday, April 24
2 – 7 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab is joining the annual Connection Project, providing participants the chance to present their business ideas, gain valuable exposure, and compete for prize money. Request your spot now to be included! This dynamic event is the perfect opportunity to showcase your creativity, connect with other innovators, and take significant steps toward achieving your entrepreneurial dreams.
If you have any questions or need further information, reach out to entrepreneurlab@cwi.edu.
Ordering Promo Items Just Got Easier
College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Marketing department is working to empower departments to reach out directly to vendors for promotional item orders. To help uphold the College's brand, and allow departments to collaborate with vendors more easily, Marketing has created the CWI Logo Usage Guide for Vendors along with a useful list of approved those companies that CWI works with. All this information can be found for ongoing reference under Employee Resources > Communications & Marketing on my.cwi.edu.
PLEASE NOTE:
- As a standard practice, Marketing works directly with vendors regarding the sending and use of CWI logo files and does not share these design files internally.
- Marketing will still need to be involved in the review and approval process for items requested by departments (see more details on the order workflow in the Usage Guide).
- At this time, this guide is exclusive to our Institutional brand. Coming soon will be a supplemental guide for our new mascot, the Otter. If you want to include the Otter before Marketing sends the guide and assets to vendors, you will need provide details about the item (color, imprint size, imprint colors, etc.) to Marketing in order to send the vendor appropriate file(s).
Don't hesitate to reach out to communications@cwi.edu if you have any questions.