CWI News – May 16, 2025
In the Spotlight
College of Western Idaho’s Nampa Campus Academic Building was alive with celebration on Friday, May 9, as graduates and their families gathered for the 2025 Grad Fest. This annual event, dedicated to honoring CWI graduates, offered a vibrant atmosphere filled with fun, food, and memories.
News Highlights
Ceremony Honors 2025 Law Enforcement Graduates
Class 14 of College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Law Enforcement program was honored during a ceremony Monday, May 12, at the Nampa Civic Center.
Program Director, Stacy Mowry, began the evening by welcoming in Nampa Police Department Pipes and Drums and graduates into the ceremony and leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Mowry then shared his appreciation to program leadership, staff, and instructors, past and present, for making the program such a success.
Following Mowry’s welcome, graduates and guests heard from CWI Provost Denise Aberle-Cannata, who applauded the students’ dedication, hard work, and commitment that got them to this moment, but also offered timely advice for continued growth. “Never forget the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and always strive to better yourselves for the benefit of those you serve as well as yourself and your family members. You'll be better for it.”
Following Aberle-Cannata, graduates heard from Doug Hart, chief deputy of the Canyon County Sherrif’s Office, who reframed this critical step for the new officers and put it into context for their career journey. “Today as I look out at you, this is more than a completion of a training academy, it's the beginning of a commitment that each of you are making. This is so much more than a job. It’s a calling; a calling that requires good character, a strong heart, staunch discipline, and above all, integrity.”
Graduates were presented with completion certificates, challenge coins, and awards for top achievements:
- Top Shooter – Easton Hobson
- Top Driver – Kaylynn Carreira
- Top Academic – Abigail Gerosin
Gary Cooper, Sr. Coordinator of the then led the graduates through the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, which ensures that all peace officers are fully aware of their individual responsibilities to maintain their own integrity, and that of their agency.
Batter Up! CWI Night at Boise Hawks is June 4
Enjoy an evening at Memorial Stadium and support students at an upcoming CWI Night!
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is proud to partner with the Boise Hawks to SCORE Big for scholarships as the Hawks take on the Ogden Raptors Wednesday, June 4. Students, alumni, employees, family, and friends of the CWI community are invited to attend and hit it out of the park!
CWI Night — Boise Hawks vs. Ogden Raptors
Wednesday, June 4
7 p.m.
Memorial Stadium
Your $15 ticket to the game includes a shaded seat in the CWI section on the third-base line. Five dollars of each CWI group ticket purchased goes directly back to the SCORE Big Scholarship fund.
Visit the CWI table just inside the gate for your chance to win a $1,000 SCORE Big scholarship or a CWI-branded baseball jersey — both will be awarded that night! Those sitting in the CWI section will also have a chance to take home CWI t-shirts and backpacks full of the College's awesome swag!
Celebrating Success at CWI’s 2025 Grad Fest
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) was alive with celebration on Friday, May 9, as graduates and their families gathered for the 2025 Grad Fest. This annual event, dedicated to honoring CWI graduates, offered a vibrant atmosphere filled with fun, food, and memories.
The party featured food from BIG Daddy’s Barbeque, photo opportunities courtesy of Alpha-Lit, cap decorating courtesy of CWI Foundation, giant yard games and an inflatable obstacle course, balloons by Magic Man Brad, music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll, merchandise from the CWI Bookstore, giveaways, grand prize drawings, and more.
There was even more to celebrate at this year’s Grad Fest as CWI’s Workforce Development hosted Certificate Celebrations for their Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Apprenticeship graduates.
Each of the three apprenticeship programs had its certificate celebration where over 334 apprentices received their certificate of completion from their respective four-year program.
- HVAC – 92 apprentices
- Electrical – 163 apprentices
- Plumbing – 79 apprentices
Apprentices in these programs completed at least 576 hours of classroom instruction, delivered either in-person or online, and aimed to gain 8,000 hours of on-the-job training over four years. These milestones prepare students to sit for Idaho’s Occupational and Professional License exam to become licensed Journeymen.
With hundreds of guests in attendance, Grad Fest 2025 was a memorable and meaningful sendoff for students as they prepare for Commencement.
Next up is CWI’s Commencement, which will bring together and recognize this year's degree, certificate, GED, and apprenticeship graduates as they walk across the ExtraMile Arena stage on Friday, May 16.
For those with questions or in need of more information, visit the Commencement page.
More Than a Degree: Karter Stuckey’s Path to Purpose at CWI
Graduating from College of Western Idaho (CWI) represents a powerful personal triumph for Karter Stuckey after years of uncertainty and growth. Stuckey completed high school in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing a senior year without the rites of passage many take for granted — no prom, no ceremony, and ultimately feeling left behind.
“Late into my senior year, my siblings suffered some health challenges, and my mom moved with them to Idaho,” said Stuckey. “I stayed behind in Oregon with my dad to graduate with my friends, but the reality of the pandemic left me feeling lonely and isolated. It was incredibly difficult.”
After taking a gap year to focus on his mental health, Stuckey relocated to Idaho and enrolled at CWI. He wasn’t sure what to expect. What he found was a college that would not only support his academic growth but would help him rediscover his confidence and passion.
Now in his second year at CWI, Stuckey is preparing to graduate in Spring 2025 with an Associate of Arts degree in Psychology.
“I chose this program because I care about the world around me deeply,” he said. “I want to be a light for those who are struggling, especially for children experiencing difficult circumstances. They deserve to know that the world hasn’t given up on them and that people care.”
While navigating his studies, Stuckey also coached a competitive soccer team, winning multiple tournaments and traveling often. Balancing academics, coaching, and his personal life posed challenges, but he credits the understanding and communication with his instructors for helping him stay grounded.
“Communication with all my professors made it possible. They were so understanding,” said Stuckey. “One of my professors, Kelsey Bobroski, really supported me when I was struggling. She helped with due dates and was genuinely compassionate. Emily Bergstrom was also influential in creating an amazing classroom environment. They helped me build not just academic skills, but life skills.”
Stuckey’s hard work paid off. In 2023, he joined PSI Beta, the national honor society for psychology students, and made the Dean’s List — an achievement that surprised him given his past struggles with academics.
“My professors provided so much support and helped me achieve my goals,” said Stuckey. “They helped me find an even deeper passion for psychology.”
Reflecting on his experience, Stuckey encourages new students to make connections early and seek out help when needed.
“Reach out to your teachers! Every single professor I’ve had at CWI has been so understanding and willing to help.”
Now looking ahead to a future dedicated to helping others, Stuckey sees his time at CWI as foundational — not just for his career, but for his personal growth. He will continue his path in psychology when he starts at Idaho State University in the fall.
“CWI is more than just a school. It’s a place where you make friends and develop lasting connections,” he said. “My time here truly helped me become a better person. I love this school, the environment, and the faculty.”
Discover how you can turn your passion for helping others into a meaningful career — explore the Psychology program at CWI.
CWI to Host 2025 Idaho Indian Education Summit
College of Western Idaho (CWI), in proud partnership with the Idaho Department of Education and the Idaho Indian Education Committee, will host the 2025 Idaho Indian Education Summit on June 12 – 13, at CWI’s Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB). This year’s summit centers around the theme “United Voices Through Indian Education,” reflecting a continued commitment to collaborative efforts that support student learning and honor the history and contributions of Idaho’s five Tribal Nations.
The summit will welcome K–20 educators, school administrators, tribal education leaders, and advocates from across the state and surrounding regions. This two-day event will feature plenary sessions and a wide array of concurrent breakout workshops designed to equip attendees with practical strategies, cultural insights, and classroom-ready tools.
Participants will engage in in-depth conversations about student achievement, Tribal sovereignty, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge and history into Idaho’s education system. Tribal representatives from the Coeur d’Alene, Kootenai, Nez Perce, Shoshone-Bannock, and Shoshone-Paiute Tribes will play a central role in shaping and leading discussions.
Dr. Justin Vance, CWI’s representative on the Idaho Indian Education Committee remarked, “We are honored to welcome educators, Tribal leaders, and community members from across Idaho and beyond to the 2025 Idaho Indian Education Summit here at the College of Western Idaho. This summit is an opportunity to listen, learn, and collaborate as we work together to uplift students and amplify Indigenous voices in education. We’re proud to be part of this meaningful gathering that celebrates culture, builds understanding, and supports a stronger future for all learners.”
Event Details
Event: 2025 Idaho Indian Education Summit
Theme: United Voices Through Indian Education
Dates: June 12 – 13
Location: College of Western Idaho, Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Cost: $100 per participant
Registration: Indian Education Summit
CWI point of contact: Justin Vance, Ed.D. justinvance@cwi.edu
Teacher-In-Service: Credit for the Summit is also available!
Social Exhibition Dances
In addition to the daytime programming, a Social Exhibition Dances event is scheduled for Thursday evening at 6 p.m. on the back lawn of NCAB. This event is open to the community and will showcase traditional dances and cultural expression, offering all participants a meaningful opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Tribal communities firsthand.
Visit the Indian Education Summit / Events / Idaho Department of Education for further updates and detailed programming information.
Celebrating Excellence: Student Leadership Award Winners Announced
The atmosphere was vibrant at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) in Boise on Friday, May 2, as the community gathered to celebrate the outstanding achievements of student leaders at the annual College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Student Leadership Awards Banquet. The evening was dedicated to recognizing the hard work, dedication, and significant impact these students have made on campus and beyond, highlighting their invaluable contributions.
Student Club Award Winners for 2024-2025
Community Service Program of the Year
Through STEM Night at Roosevelt Elementary, Chemistry Club demonstrates their commitment to community service and science education by providing engaging, hands-on chemistry demonstrations. Members regularly volunteer their expertise to address the need for hands-on science experiences, promote science literacy, and foster a service-oriented mindset.
Social Program of the Year
Night of the Living Moles, hosted by Chemistry Club united the CWI community with a unique blend of science, Halloween fun, and camaraderie, featuring interactive experiments, science trivia, a costume contest, and festive decorations that made science accessible and exciting.
Student Organization of the Year
Exercise is Medicine Club has significantly impacted campus and local community through diverse health-focused initiatives, including collaborative events, partnerships with counseling and local organizations, and consistent delivery of high-quality events that foster a healthier, more active community.
Student Organization Advisor of the Year
Rick Del Vecchio from the Gaming Club for his exceptional dedication and support by volunteering countless hours, offering invaluable guidance and technical expertise, and cultivating a positive environment that empowers students, strengthens community, and provides lasting opportunities for growth.
Outstanding Officer of the Year
Daniel Strilets from Chemistry Club for significantly improving the club through proactive engagement, enhanced communication, community building, and spearheading a large community STEM outreach event that engaged over 200 students.
Quiet Influence Award
Madelyn Miller from Chemistry Club for her instrumental behind-the-scenes effort, including her reliability in coordinating event logistics, her calm, solution-focused approach to challenges, and her proactive nature in improving club systems and mentoring members. A key foundation of Chemistry Club’s success.
Trailblazing Leadership Award
Caleb Ball from the Astronomy Club has positively impacted students by creating a safe haven dedicated to astronomy, science, and creativity, securing a Unistellar telescope, actively uplifting others, and demonstrating adaptability and innovation through resourceful problem-solving and championing CWI core values.
Thank you, and congratulations to all our student leaders, clubs, advisors, staff, and faculty who have helped make the 2024-2025 academic year a success!
To learn more about the club award categories, visit Club Awards.
Rock On! Volunteer at Summer Concerts for the CWI Food Bank
CWI Staff, want to experience the thrill of live music for free this summer while making a real difference in the lives of College of Western Idaho (CWI) students? Here's your chance!
The Ford Idaho Center and CWI have teamed up to support the vital CWI Food Pantry Program throughout the summer concert series! From May 20 through October 11, concertgoers will have the opportunity to make monetary donations to help students facing food insecurity.
We're looking for enthusiastic staff and faculty volunteers to be the face of this incredible initiative!
As a Concert Cares Volunteer, you'll:
- Staff a dedicated CWI booth or tent at the Ford Idaho Center.
- Engage with fellow music lovers and share information about the CWI Food Pantry program.
- Hand out flyers and encourage donations to support CWI students in need.
- Facilitate easy donations through a convenient QR code for online giving. (Please note: We will only be collecting online monetary donations.)
But that's not all! As a thank you for your time and support, volunteers will receive:
- FREE admission to enjoy the entire concert after your shift!
- A complimentary food and beverage voucher!
- FREE parking!
Spread the word! Non-CWI friends and family are also welcome to join the fun and volunteer alongside you! Each concert can accommodate a maximum of four volunteers. As a CWI volunteer, you are welcome to sign up one non-CWI guest to volunteer with you.
**Please note, volunteers are only allowed to sign up for one concert.
On the day of your chosen event, a friendly representative from the Ford Idaho Center will greet you upon arrival and provide all the necessary details. More information about your chosen event will be sent directly to you after you sign up.
Don't miss this amazing opportunity to enjoy fantastic live music, support a crucial cause, and have a fun-filled summer!
This is what concert goers (& volunteers) can win with their generous donations (This can also be used as a script when speaking to concert patrons):
“Rock out for a cause and score big! Every donation you make at our summer concerts not only supports the incredible CWI Food Pantry, helping local students thrive, but also enters you for exciting chances to win! At each show, you could snag fantastic prizes, and one lucky donor will walk away with a $1000 Score Big scholarship from CWI at the end of the season! Plus, our generous partners at the Ford Idaho Center are sweetening the deal with a grand prize drawing for 4 tickets to a show of your choice next season (Nov '25 - Apr '26), 2 free parking passes, a $120 food & beverage credit, and a $100 merch item (pending artist merch availability)! Donate today and make a difference while getting the chance to win big!”
Don’t Wait! Register Now for CWI Summer Camps
Do you have a middle or high school student that’s passionate about computing, cybersecurity, and STEM? College of Western Idaho (CWI) has a fun and engaging summer camp that helps kids level up their technology skills, but spots are filling up fast. Here are the details you need to know!
Cyber Summer Camp
Dates: June 23 – 27
Times: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Room 1425
Cost: $200/per student, grades 7 – 12 (scholarships available)
This week-long, daytime event is aimed at teaching high school students the basics of computing, cybersecurity, and information technology through a hands-on, fun, and engaging experience. Students will learn about CWI Dual Credit opportunities, Cyber Blue Teams, operating systems, gamified cybersecurity education, and computer hardware.
For additional information about CWI summer camps, contact Kae Jensen at 208.562.3336 or kaejensen@cwi.edu.
Converging Connections: 2025 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition
Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Studio Art graduates at the exhibit, Converging Connections, on display, beginning Wednesday, April 16, at Boise State University’s Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery.
The 2025 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition celebrates the artistic and academic achievements of these Studio Art graduates: Kaleb Belknap, Thordis Boeker, Chelsea Capps, Alison Colacchio, Wendy Dickinson, Isabel Dominguez, Jessica Fisher, Ari Foy, Jordan Grove, Lakiah Howell, Michelle Jenkins, Mackenzie Macky, Kae Martini, Avery McDonald, Dally McEwen, Shaun Miller, Jacesana Peeples, Emma Prescott, Bryant Varley, and Jordan Wittchow.
The exhibit will run from April 16 – May 12 and can be viewed between 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily. In addition, students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to an opening reception Wednesday, April 16, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
Opening Reception
Wednesday, April 16
4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Boise State University, Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
Converging Connections Exhibition
April 16 – May 12
7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Boise State University, Student Union Building Fine Arts Gallery
CWI’s Studio Art program promotes the development of artistic skills and practice, craftsmanship, and aesthetic discernment. The Associate of Arts degree in Studio Art provides students with a foundational understanding of the history of visual culture, provides opportunities to grow as artists, and prepares students who are interested in transferring to a four–year college or university to complete a bachelor’s degree in Art.
Contact Goran Fazil at goranfazil@cwi.edu to learn more about the College’s Studio Art program or this year’s exhibit.
