CWI News – July 14, 2023
Spotlight
This year’s eight CWI INBRE Scholars are immersing themselves in scientific research working with Assistant Professor of Biology, Suzanne Oppenheimer, as part of the Idaho INBRE Research Program.
They are diving deeply into their research project and carefully investigating a research question. They will then analyze, interpret the results, and design a scientific poster to present at the INBRE Research Conference in Moscow, Idaho.
Bold Appreciation
Enter for your chance to win two tickets to the upcoming Michael Franti and Spearhead concert!
The Idaho Center has partnered with CWI this summer to support our Food Pantries and community garden via their Concert Cares program. In addition to creating opportunities for concert-goers to donate food and funds to CWI, they have gifted us with tickets to the Michael Franti and Spearhead show Saturday, August 12.
Enter to win by selecting a number between 1 and 500 via the link below. The employee closest to the number, chosen at random, will receive two tickets to the concert. Entries must be received by noon on Wednesday, July 19. Winners will be announced the afternoon of Wednesday, July 19. Tickets must be picked up by noon on Friday, July 21 or they will be given to the next eligible winner who is closest to the chosen number.
Members of President’s Cabinet, the Executive Operations Team, and Work Study students are not eligible. Limit one entry per CWI employee.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact hr@cwi.edu.
News Highlights
Getting a Head Start on His Dreams Through CWI
College of Western Idaho (CWI) graduate, Rigdon Reddish, has always known he wanted to have a career in Law Enforcement.
“Growing up with family in Law Enforcement was very inspiring and sparked a desire,” Reddish said. “I remember being in a situation where I got to see Law Enforcement officers in action and right then it clicked, and I knew it was what I wanted to do.”
Pursuing his dream career as soon as he could is what brought the 20-year-old to CWI and enroll in the College’s Law Enforcement Program in Fall 2022.
With over 200 years of combined law enforcement experience, CWI’s instructors prepare students to make a difference in their community and reach their career goals using state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on training.
“My expectation of the program is to provide the best training possible and prepare students to go out and be successful in whatever they do,” said Law Enforcement Program Director, LeRoy Forsman.
CWI’s program offers two areas of study — patrol and detention officer. The program has been approved by the Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council and eliminates the graduates’ need to attend the basic police academy before taking the certification exam.
“We do the training upfront rather than the agencies having to hire students and then pay to send them away for several months to get trained,” Forsman said. “The students get an education, in both patrol and detention, then they can go to work for agencies right away.”
Students in the program must also go through a polygraph test, background check, and other vetting processes as they would if hired at a department.
From having students undergo physical training to bringing in officers to share personal stories of what can go on in the field, the program offers a good idea of this career and how it may be in the real world.
For students under the age of 21, like Reddish, CWI’s Law Enforcement program also allows them to get a head start in their careers.
Most Law Enforcement departments in Idaho require people to be 21 years old to work as an officer who has arresting authority or to even enroll in their academics. CWI’s program allows students as young as 18 to enroll, where, upon completion of the course, they can then work as Detention or Correctional Officers in Idaho jails and prisons or get the training to then begin work as sworn officers as soon as they turn 21.
Because of his training at CWI, Reddish has already been hired for his dream job — before he is even 21. He will begin work as a Patrol Officer for the Caldwell Police Department this September, after his 21st birthday.
“I wanted this career, and I went and got it. I was determined,” Reddish said.
Reddish is one of 11 from his graduating class of 15 who were either hired or in the process of becoming employed with local law enforcement agencies before graduation in May 2023. Others were hired at local agencies, such as Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Department of Corrections, and more.
There are some agencies who still require recruits to go through their own police academy training, but Forsman said students coming from CWI “fly through it.” He added it is more of a refresher course for CWI graduates.
“This is a great program,” said Reddish. “I would recommend to others who know this is the career for them and wish to pursue it, then they come in ready to learn and stay focused. You must work hard for what you want and stay disciplined.”
Applications for Fall 2023 are being accepted through Friday, July 28. For those interested in applying or in need of more information, please visit the Law Enforcement program page or contact LeRoy Forsman at leroyforsman@cwi.edu.
Wilson Named WICHE Academy for Leaders in Humanities Fellow
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Assistant Professor of Integrated Studies and General Education Coordinator, Greg Wilson, who was named one of eight fellows in the inaugural cohort of Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education’s (WICHE) Academy for Leaders in Humanities. The fellowship prepares future academic leaders in management, communication, and leadership skills as they work closely alongside higher education Presidents, Provosts, Deans, and other leaders around campuses over the next two years.
“I was honored and a little surprised when I found out I was selected to be a part of this fellowship,” said Wilson. “Looking at the other fellows, I know I will be learning a lot from them and from our mentors at WICHE. I feel humbled and ready for this opportunity.”
In addition to Wilson’s excellence in teaching, he has also collaborated with and led CWI faculty in delivering effective General Education courses and programs to students for the last five years as part of his role as Coordinator. Wilson has also been instrumental in kick-starting and leading the College’s Z-Degree Classes, which lowers textbook costs for students to provide greater access to learning materials.
The WICHE fellowship provides funding to CWI which will allow Wilson to serve as Assistant Dean for General Education and focus on institutional projects to advance the effectiveness of General Education courses and Z-Degree classes. These projects will center on equity, justice, and intercultural communication to ensure students from all backgrounds succeed at CWI.
“WICHE is committed to helping all the fellows learn more about what it means to practice leadership and learn project management skills,” Wilson said. “Each fellow completes a project that complements their school’s institutional goals. For CWI, our core themes of Student Success and Inclusive Excellence will be at the center of the project I hope to complete, ensuring greater access for every student that decides to attend school here. I’m excited about the possibilities ahead!”
“The goal of the WICHE Academy for Leaders in the Humanities is to allow institutions in the region to grow their own leadership and diversify their academic administration by preparing their humanities faculty to effectively and confidently take on and succeed in leadership roles,” said Camelia Naranjo, Interim Assistant Director of Academic Partnerships, Learning, and Development in the WICHE Programs and Services unit. “There is a need for promoting humanities faculty into upper-level leadership roles at higher education institutions, and this program will bridge that gap.”
Fellows will attend a professional development seminar this fall at WICHE’s headquarters in Boulder, Colorado, and receive ongoing professional development throughout the two-year term. Each fellow will also assume an administrative role at their institution, reporting to a senior leader in academic affairs, and completing an extended project that advances an important institutional priority to practice leadership skills.
Additionally, each fellow will have two mentors: an institutional mentor who will serve as their supervisor and the primary liaison between the institution and WICHE, and an external mentor or advisor. CWI Dean of Arts and Humanities, Justin Vance, Ed.D., will serve as Wilson’s institutional mentor.
“I am glad to see Greg recognized — his goals have always been to support all students at CWI, reduce barriers to students' educational progress, and make a positive difference,” Vance said. “As a mentor, I look forward to helping give Greg perspective, tools, and support to make an even bigger difference at CWI and in our community.”
CWI Partners With Snake River Stampede
The Snake River Stampede is a long-standing tradition for the Nampa community. The rodeo started in the early 1900’s and has evolved into one of the top ten rodeos in the nation. It is recognized as the biggest, wildest, and fastest major professional sports event in Idaho and College of Western Idaho (CWI) is excited to join together in the spirit of community and education.
“CWI is proud to sponsor the Youth Rodeo 101 Clinic at one of the top rodeos in the nation,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “Education and the spirit of the rodeo go hand in hand – both foster individual determination, discovery, and empowerment in developing the confidence to tackle the unknown. Participants can use these skills and experiences for the rest of their life.”
New this year to the week-long event will be Stampede Western Fest, which brings together shopping, food trucks, and daily events for all ages. Through CWI’s involvement, a Youth Rodeo 101 Clinic will be held Friday, July 21, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kids from the Boys and Girls Club of Nampa will be participating, and CWI employees’ children are welcome to participate too.
Youth Rodeo 101 will feature champion cowboys, cowgirls, and queens leading stations representing many of the professional rodeo events, including bareback, saddle bronc, and bull riding, as well as roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bullfighting. Campers will also learn how the superstar animal athletes are chosen, cared for, and the importance of both. In addition to all that they will see and learn, participants will also have a chance to try their ability at each event on training devices.
"The Stampede exists to benefit the community," said Snake River Stampede Director, Claudia Weathermon. "We're so happy to partner with CWI and help our youngest citizens learn firsthand about farm and ranching life."
For those interested in getting involved with the Snake River Stampede, there is a volunteer opportunity. About 5-10 volunteers are invited to help on Friday, July 21. Please email communications@cwi.edu and include your shirt size to help represent CWI at this awesome community event.
Jump Into the World of Cybersecurity through Raspberry Pi Summer Camp
Calling all high school students! Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of computing and cybersecurity? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Cyber Defense Center is hosting Raspberry Pi Summer Camp, a five-day program designed to introduce high school students to the growing field of cybersecurity through hands-on activities.
Campers will receive their own Raspberry Pi and learn the basics of programming, circuit design, and cyber-physical systems through knowledgeable instructors. Students will also get to interact with peers and mentors and explore the possibilities of a challenging and rewarding career path.
The weeks’ worth of learning and activities leads up to the final day of camp, where campers will put their new skills to the test to solve challenging puzzles and participate in a “capture the flag” cybersecurity activity facilitated by the Idaho National Laboratory.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
Register for Raspberry Pi Summer Camp
The cost to enroll in the exciting five-day camp is $150, which covers the cost of supplies and lunch each day. Students may be able to qualify for a scholarship. For those interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities, please contact sarahoyt@cwi.edu.
No prior knowledge or skills are required to enroll.
Learn more about CWI’s Cyber Defense Center and Cybersecurity opportunities by visiting the program’s page.
Learn About In-Demand Careers at Apprenticeship Open House
Explore in-demand careers and training available through College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Workforce Development (WD) Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Apprenticeship programs! WD is inviting the community to visit and learn more about the programs through information sessions at its Apprenticeship Open House Monday, Aug. 14.
Canyon County Center (CYNC), Room 152
Apprenticeship Programs through CWI WD allow students to earn a living while completing training in their desired careers. Classes are taught online and in-person, providing flexibility as students learn the skills that will make them in demand in today’s workforce. Once students complete their apprenticeship program, there are multiple areas of focus that they may choose in each industry.
The four-year Apprenticeship programs prepare students for the journeyman test to become a licensed Electrician, HVAC Technician, or Plumber. Students will learn and work with industry experts inside and outside the classroom for on-the-job training.
Instructors, students, and employers will be at the open house to talk with attendees and answer any questions they may have about getting into one of these in-demand careers.
CWI Apprenticeship Programs, both online and in person:
For those with questions or in need of more information about the Open House or Apprenticeship programs, please contact 208.562.2700 or wd@cwi.edu.
Hernandez Named June 2023 Staff of The Month
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Senior Transition Coordinator for Dual Credit Program, Oster Hernandez, who was named Staff of the Month for June 2023.
Part of Hernandez’s role at the College is to help promote the Dual Credit program and Career Technical Education (CTE) courses, whether that is giving tours on campus, visiting and presenting to local area high schools, or sharing information about the programs through the Pop-the-Trunk initiative. He also helps recruit and hire new Dual Credit and CTE teachers to the College and runs the Spanish Language College Level Examination Program (CLEP) initiative through the Dual Credit Office.
Hernandez has been part of the College for nearly 10 years, where he has worked in the Dual Credit Program for five of those years. Prior to being a Senior Transition Coordinator, Hernandez also worked at the College’s Testing Center, as an Enrollment Counselor, and as a CTE Transition Coordinator for Dual Credit.
“As I continued to work here, I found my passion for helping others achieve academic and career success,” Hernandez said. “CWI cares for their community and offers opportunities that no other college offers. I love my job and want to continue to be part of this amazing organization.”
One of Hernandez’s favorite memories since joining the institution was creating and launching the Pop-the-Trunk initiative, which involves teaching trunks that include lesson plans, program-specific materials and equipment, software, tools, and other information to help alternative high school students explore and learn about CTE. Introduced in the 2021-2022 academic year by Hernandez and Dual Credit and CTE Transition Coordinator, Jessica Concie, the initiative has since reached hundreds of students and was even recognized by the House and Senate Education Committees at the Idaho State Capitol.
“That was one of the best days of my career at CWI.”
Hernandez has also been invited to speak at national conferences to present to school leaders around the country about the initiative. Many around campus applaud Hernandez for his hard work and how well he is able to showcase the impacts the College has on the community.
“Oster represents CWI in the community with integrity and professionalism,” said Dean of Arts and Humanities, Justin Vance. “I am proud to call him a colleague. In addition, he is caring and respectful of his fellow employees.”
Hernandez is grateful to be part of the CWI community and work alongside a team of individuals whose main priority is to help students succeed.
“I love CWI because it provides a safe environment to learn, it is really affordable for the students that I work with, we have the best CTE programs, and, best of all, my co-workers and team,” he said.
Hernandez is a father to three children and a grandfather to four, with another on the way. Outside of the College, he enjoys listening to music and working as a DJ.
NMEC Closures Continue For Upgrades
As construction projects at Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC) continue, including the replacement of the HVAC equipment on the roof, College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Facilities Management will partially close the building on Tuesday, Aug. 15. Occupancy of NMEC is limited to specific areas of the building during partial closures. Scheduled classes, events, and services affected have been relocated or rescheduled.
Administrative Offices, CWI Bookstore, One Stop Student Service, Testing Center, Tutoring Services, and select classrooms and labs will remain open and operational during the partial closure (please see floor plan).
Please note that the planned partial closure on Wednesday, Aug. 16, has been canceled, and NMEC will operate as normal.
Those with questions or in need of more information are asked to contact Brian Dunaway at briandunaway@cwi.edu.
Global Data Breach Potentially Affects Higher Education Institutions in Idaho
A recent worldwide data breach involving the MOVEit Transfer tool has affected the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC), as well as other businesses and organizations. Additionally, the Teachers Insurance Annuity Association of America (TIAA), and Corebridge Financial were involved. This data breach may have impacts to Idaho higher education institutions, including College of Western Idaho (CWI).
CWI is taking the issue seriously and is actively monitoring the situation and will promptly share any pertinent updates received from the companies. It is important to note that CWI's own IT systems remain unaffected by this data security event.
The College was notified that unauthorized access to student data occurred during a breach of NSC's file transfer system. NSC utilizes this tool for accepting data transfers, which includes financial aid compliance data from numerous colleges across the country, including CWI and other higher education institutions in the state. Personally identifiable information such as dates of birth and social security numbers may have been accessed. However, NSC has yet to determine the sensitive information that was compromised, and the company stated it could take a few weeks to determine which students may have potentially been affected by the breach.
To learn more about the data breach and Clearinghouse's response, visit their website. Students are encouraged to monitor the website regularly for further information from the Clearinghouse.
In addition, both of CWI’s Optional Retirement Plan providers, TIAA and Corebridge Financial have been impacted by the MOVEit breach. The personal information of institution employees may have been compromised. CWI’s Human Resource Department will communicate with employees who participate in TIAA and Corebridge Financial.
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.
