CWI News – May 2, 2025
News Highlights
Annual CWI Horticulture Plant Sale – May 7
Spruce up your yard and garden this spring with plants grown and cared for by College of Western Idaho (CWI) Horticulture Technology students. The entire CWI community is invited to attend the program's annual plant sale to purchase annuals, perennials, floral hanging baskets, vegetables, herbs, and more.
CWI HORTICULTURE PLANT SALE
Wednesday, May 7
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
CWI Horticulture (HORT), East greenhouses next to the Idaho Firewise Garden in Boise
Offerings include, but are not limited to:
- Flowering annuals for beds, containers, hanging baskets, and cut flowers
- Vegetables – variety of tomatoes, peppers, eggplants
- Herbs – perennial varieties
Bring your own box or container to bring your plants home in. A limited amount of boxes will be available. Cashiers will accept cash, card, or check. Parking is limited.
Questions? Contact Agricultural Sciences Department Chair, Andrea Schumaker, at andreaschumaker@cwi.edu.
Finish Out Spring 2025 with Crunch Week
As we inch closer to the end of the Spring 2025 semester and final exams, College of Western Idaho (CWI) is here to support you! Student Engagement and the Library are hosting Crunch Week, a week-long event dedicated to helping students, faculty, and staff prepare, relax, and have some fun as we head into the final stretch of the semester.
Flapjacks for Finals
CWI Library staff will be flippin' some flapjacks to help fuel students as they prepare for finals.
Monday, May 5
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
Thursday, May 8
10 – 11:30 a.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
Pizza with Tutors
Grab a slice of pizza and study for finals with tutors available to help.
Tuesday, May 6
12 – 7:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Room 209, Tutoring
Study Kits with the Writing Center
Writing & AI Literacy Center will be handing out kits for extra study support before finals.
Wednesday, May 7
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
Final Beam Raised for CWI’s New Student Success Center
College of Western Idaho (CWI) marked a major construction milestone with a topping-off ceremony on April 30, celebrating the completion of the steel framework for the new CapEd Student Success Center on the Nampa Campus. The ceremony, held at the site of the future facility, brought together college leadership, trustees, CapEd Credit Union representatives, faculty, staff, and students.
The CapEd Student Success Center is one of three new buildings included in the CWI Nampa Campus expansion. Once complete, the 35,000-square-foot facility will serve as a central hub for student support, housing services such as tutoring, a library and learning commons, the bookstore, and One Stop Student Services. The building is made possible in part by CapEd Credit Union, whose naming partnership supports the College’s mission to expand access to affordable education.
CWI President Gordon Jones spoke at the event, emphasizing the building’s significance in enhancing the student experience and consolidating vital resources. “It’s exciting to see our Student Success Center take shape, signifying the progress we’re making on behalf of students. This is strategic progress that makes sense for a community college like ours and I hope you're as excited as I am,” said Jones.
Board of Trustees Vice Chair Nicole Bradshaw echoed that enthusiasm. “It’s really amazing for us to see the expansion and growth that’s happening with CWI as it grows to meet the needs of our community,” said Bradshaw. “This is a proud moment for us all.”
CapEd Credit Union Chief Marketing Officer Todd Christensen reflected on the vision and impact of the project. “The CapEd Student Success Center is an example of our community coming together to provide affordable and accessible education. Working together is what made this a reality and, as we continue to collaborate, it will enable future growth for CWI and students,” said Christensen. “It’s awesome to see this final beam go up to help elevate education in our community and power the Treasure Valley”
The building is expected to open in the Fall of 2026, serving as a cornerstone of student engagement and success on CWI’s Nampa Campus.
Innovation at the Entrepreneur Lab Spring Showcase
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab partnered with the Connections Project for the 2025 Spring Showcase and Competition on April 24. Students and community members brought their best ideas forward in a vibrant, high-energy event featuring innovative, thought-provoking, and even humorous concepts.
Participants wowed a panel of judges and a live audience with creative exhibits and compelling short pitches. From brilliant business plans to tasty treats, the energy and ingenuity on display showcased the innovative drive in the CWI community.
The Winners
$1,000 — Tiller Farm Matchmaking took home the top prize for their unique concept: a dating app-inspired platform for farm animals
$500 (2) — The Modern Post and Gerald Turner Brewery.
Four additional presenters each earned $250 prizes for their fantastic contributions.
Special thanks to Osito’s Food, The Hobby Farm, and Fire Storm Productions for bringing their ideas to the table, and the delicious homemade tamales courtesy of Monic Ortiz.
Stay tuned for more events from the CWI Entrepreneur Lab.
Celebrating National Testing Professionals Week at College of Western Idaho
As students at College of Western Idaho (CWI) prepare for final exams, the team behind the scenes at CWI's Testing Services is working just as diligently. With spring finals week beginning May 12, Testing Services will serve nearly 1,000 students across two testing locations — highlighting the critical role they play in helping students reach their goals.
This year, the week leading up to finals takes on added significance as Testing Services joins colleges across the country in recognizing National Testing Professionals Week, celebrated May 5 – 9. Sponsored by the National College Testing Association (NCTA), this annual recognition honors the work of testing professionals who ensure every exam experience is secure, accessible, and supportive.
“As proud members of the NCTA, we are committed to promoting honesty, integrity, and fairness in all aspects of testing,” said Witney Davis, Assistant Director of Testing Services. “It’s a rewarding area of the College to serve. We see students and community members during pivotal moments — when they’re nervous, determined, or celebrating a major achievement. It’s an honor to support them during these milestones and witness the resilience that defines their journey.”
CWI’s Testing Services is designated as an NCTA Certified Test Center. Staff members complete extensive training and credentialing to administer a wide range of exams across programs such as Nursing, Cybersecurity, Automotive Technology, and Business. The department also plays a vital role in offering professional certification exams for the community, including the GED, CLEP for Dual Credit, Idaho Real Estate Licensing, and even pre-employment testing for federal agencies like the FBI and TSA.
A critical part of Testing Services’ mission is ensuring access for all students. In collaboration with Student Disability Services, the team implements accommodations aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), helping to reduce barriers for individuals with disabilities. Staff are trained to apply these accommodations with care and compassion, while upholding rigorous security standards and exam integrity.
Throughout National Testing Professionals Week, CWI's Testing Services is celebrating with themed activities, treats, and moments of recognition for the team that makes it all possible. For many on the team, the most rewarding part of their work is witnessing the success of those they serve.
“Seeing students’ and candidates’ big smiles when we say ‘Congratulations!’ and knowing they are succeeding — it’s the best part of the job,” said Geni Draghici, Testing Specialist.
Katie Woods, Senior Testing Specialist, added, “It’s meaningful to be even a small part of very big moments in people’s lives.”
“Greeting testers with an upbeat attitude helps ease nerves,” said Laura Richard, Testing Specialist. “I love being able to celebrate their success with them.”
From exam-day encouragement to behind-the-scenes precision, the work of CWI's Testing Services reflects the College’s larger mission to empower students to succeed.
CWI Students Tour Local News Station, Explore Journalism Careers
College of Western Idaho (CWI) students got a behind-the-scenes look at the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism during a recent tour of Boise’s KTVB News Channel 7.
Assistant Professor Anna Daly’s News Writing and Reporting class visited the station recently to explore the many roles available in local journalism and get a taste of what life is like inside a working newsroom.
“I was already considering a career in journalism, and getting to tour KTVB definitely made me even more interested,” said General Studies student, Ani Staigle. “This was especially so, because I got to see the many jobs that make up the news. It would be fun to explore different avenues related to journalism to see which one I like best. The KTVB tour was a really great and inspiring opportunity.”
While some students already had their sights set on careers in journalism, others said the visit opened their eyes to new possibilities.
“Touring KTVB made me consider for the first time working at a news station, maybe as a producer or something more on the technical side of news production,” said Media Arts student, Adrian Spencer. “I was also really impressed by the professionalism and discipline they showed in order to produce a successful newscast.”
Not only did students observe the preparation it takes to produce a newscast during a day with breaking news, they watched the News at Six in the KTVB studio live and had a Q&A session with people working in a variety of roles at the station.
“I really enjoyed seeing the excitement from all the students as they watched everything that was going on around them during what was a bit of a chaotic afternoon,” said Danielle Allsop, KTVB Special Projects Producer. “It was a true reflection of what working in the media is like and I’m so glad they were able to see it as it happened.”
KTVB staff say they welcome the opportunity to connect with students and support the next generation of journalists.
“KTVB is always excited to open the doors to students who are eager and passionate to learn more about broadcast journalism,” Allsop said. “Oftentimes, stepping through the studio doors for the first time is the beginning of a future career in media, whether it’s in front of or behind the camera.”
In their reflections on the tour, students not only shared what they learned but also said they left the experience with a renewed sense of direction and possibility for a career in journalism.
Honors Students Volunteer at Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
Members of College of Western Idaho's Beta Sigma Pi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) demonstrated their commitment to environmental stewardship with a pre-Earth Day cleanup event at Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, April 19. Nine CWI students, accompanied by chapter co-advisor Liza Long, spent the morning collecting trash from the lower dam beach area of Lake Lowell.
The service project marks the first time the honor society has organized this type of environmental cleanup event. The initiative was spearheaded by Adrielle Cizmich, Beta Sigma Pi’s Vice President of Service, who coordinated the efforts to help preserve one of Idaho's oldest wildlife refuges.
"Volunteering at the refuge for over a decade has taught me to respect the environment while helping others and benefiting my community. I wanted to share this positive service experience with others," said Cizmich. “Volunteering as a group with PTK was valuable because it allowed us to apply teamwork and enthusiasm as we removed litter from around the refuge, making it cleaner and safer for visitors and wildlife in our community.”
Established in 1909 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge protects diverse wildlife habitats including the open waters and wetland edges of Lake Lowell, sagebrush uplands, and surrounding natural areas. The refuge serves as a critical resting and wintering area for birds migrating along the Pacific Flyway.
While Phi Theta Kappa doesn't mandate service requirements for its members, the organization strongly emphasizes service and leadership as core values. These principles are integral to PTK's four hallmarks: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Fellowship.
"Community service projects like this give our members practical leadership experience," explained Michal Yadlin, CWI’s Honors Program coordinator and Beta Sigma Pi senior advisor. "It's rewarding to see students apply PTK's values beyond the classroom."
The Beta Sigma Pi chapter has been recognized as one of the top PTK chapters nationally, consistently achieving five-star status — the highest rank for chapters in the honor society. This service event adds to their record of community engagement and leadership development.
Additionally, the chapter hosted the Rocky Mountain regional PTK conference at CWI’s Nampa Campus on April 25-26. The conference brought together PTK members from across the region to participate in leadership development, networking, and educational opportunities. Long gave a presentation on what students should know about academic integrity and artificial intelligence.
For more information about Beta Sigma Pi and future service opportunities, contact the chapter at ptk@cwi.edu.
CWI’s Big Gaming Battle
Join College of Western Idaho (CWI) on Saturday, May 3, from 6 – 9 p.m., for an electrifying evening of esports fun hosted by the Gaming Club at CWI. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting started, this event is open to everyone. You only need to register to participate. Competitors must be 18 years or older.
Gaming Club Tournament
Saturday, May 3
6 – 9 p.m.
Ada County Campus Pintail Building (APIN) in Boise (near the corner of Maple Grove Road and Overland Road)
What’s in store?
- Battle it out in Rocket League, the fast-paced vehicular soccer game loved by many.
- Challenge yourself in the buzzworthy Marvel Rivals, an exciting new team-based game.
- Get engaged leading up to the event with special Pokémon GO community engagements.
Unable to join in person?
Catch all the action live on CWI’s official Twitch channel.
This tournament is about more than just gaming. It is also about growing engagement in the esports community at CWI and connecting with Boise’s tech and coding enthusiasts. Don’t miss this chance to game, compete, and connect. Register now to play, or come cheer on participants live!
Unlock New Skills at CWI’s 2025 Summer Camps
This summer, College of Western Idaho (CWI) is offering engaging and educational summer camps designed to provide high school students with hands-on learning experiences in technology, cybersecurity and more. With opportunities to build skills, connect with peers, and even earn college credit, these camps are a perfect way to make the most of the summer break.
CYBER SUMMER CAMP
Dive into the world of computing and cybersecurity at CWI’s Cyber Summer Camp. This week-long camp introduces students, grades 7 – 10, to computer hardware, operating systems, and the fundamentals of cybersecurity through interactive activities. Attendees will explore gamified cybersecurity education, learn about hackers and cybersecurity threats, and gain valuable hands-on experience.
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)
Registration: Register by Wednesday, June 18
SUMMER BRIDGE CAMP
CWI’s Summer Bridge Camp is a week-long enrichment and skills development program designed for current 11th-grade students interested in exploring careers in Computer Science/Engineering, Automotive/Manufacturing, and Health Sciences. Participants will engage in two classes each day, leadership development workshops, and off-campus industry tours tailored to their chosen field. The program also includes career preparation sessions, guest speaker presentations, and an empowerment workshop. Students will have the opportunity to connect with CWI faculty, staff, and peers through interactive activities and icebreakers. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation for off-campus visits will be provided.
Date: July 7 – 11
Time: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Nampa Campus Micron Education Center (NMEC)
Cost: FREE
Registration: Register by Friday, May 16
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.
2025 Grad Fest – Let’s Celebrate Our Grads!
Congratulations, 2025 graduates! The time has come to celebrate your accomplishments and prepare to graduate! Gather your friends, family, and classmates, and plan to join us for a good time and good food as we kick off the countdown to College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) 2025 Commencement Ceremony with Grad Fest, Friday, May 9.
GRAD FEST
Friday, May 9
4:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
The event will feature:
- Food from BIG Daddy’s Barbeque
- Photo ops courtesy of Alpha-Lit
- Caps, gowns, and CWI swag for purchase from the CWI Bookstore
- Cap decorating
- Giveaways and grand prize drawings
- Giant yard games
- Inflatable obstacle course
- Caricature artists & face paintings
- Music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll
- and more!
In addition to all the fun, CWI’s Workforce Development will also be hosting ceremonies for Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing apprenticeship graduates. There will be guest speakers and students will be presented with their certificates of completion.
APPRENTICESHIP CERTIFICATE CEREMONIES
Friday, May 9
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Room 102E
- Plumbing | 5:00 – 5:30 p.m.
- Electrical | 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
- HVAC | 7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
We look forward to celebrating you and seeing you there with your friends, family, and support system!
The event is free and open to the entire CWI community.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact Amber Eubanks at ambereubanks@cwi.edu. Visit CWI's graduation page for more information about the 2025 Commencement Ceremony.
Countdown to Commencement: Get Your Regalia
Spring graduates, your moment is almost here! As you gear up for College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) 2025 Commencement Ceremony, be sure to take care of one essential detail — your regalia. Now is the time to order everything you need to walk with pride.
Regalia is officially available to purchase at the CWI Bookstore March 31 through May 9, in store during regular store hours or online.
- Full regalia (cap, gown, tassel) – $32.50
- Gown – $21.75
- Cap – $6.00
- Tassel (Associate or GED) – $4.25
- Honor Cord – $11.15
- CWI Stole – $23.70
Grab your gear early while supplies last. This is your time to shine — let’s make sure you look the part.
If you have questions or need help with your order, the CWI Bookstore team can help. Contact them at bookstore@cwi.edu or 208.562.2402.
Congratulations, grads — let the countdown to Commencement begin!
2025 Commencement Seeking Volunteers
The 2025 CWI Commencement Ceremony is fast approaching, and we are looking for volunteers to help staff the event and celebrate this important moment with our students!
What Volunteer Help is Needed?
Volunteer shifts vary based on the role assigned. Some positions are busiest during graduate check-in and lineup, while others are more active during the name-reading portion of the ceremony and the recessional.
How Do I Sign Up?
Click below and choose a slot that works best for you. The deadline for selections is April 25.
Additional Information:
Training: We will provide training during the first week of May via Zoom.
Paid Time: While you will be volunteering, this will count as paid time. Please coordinate with your supervisor to adjust your work hours accordingly.
Meals: We’ll provide dinner during your shift.
We are deeply grateful to everyone willing and able to assist with this event. Your support is vital to making the ceremony a success!
