CWI News – May 3, 2024
President's Message
Dear CWI Community,
As the spring semester draws to a close, I am grateful for your steadfast dedication and tireless efforts. It's amazing to think that Commencement is just around the corner on May 10.
I am thrilled to invite you all to join us in celebrating our students' accomplishments at Grad Fest – later today, May 3, at 4 p.m. at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB). It's a wonderful opportunity to honor our graduates with a barbecue and activities, all in recognition of their hard work and your invaluable support throughout their educational journey at CWI.
In addition to our end-of-semester celebrations, I am proud to share two monumental achievements for our college. After a rigorous seven-year evaluation, CWI has received the official approval letter of reaccreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This is a testament to our collective commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence.
Also, we have received the green light to offer a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree from NWCCU, marking a major advancement in expanding our academic offerings and providing greater career opportunities for our students. We will now work with the Department of Education as we continue along the path to delivering a BAS degree.
Thank you once again for your outstanding contributions and for helping create an environment where our students can excel and achieve their dreams.
Warm regards,
CWI in the News
The White House: FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces up to $6.1 Billion Preliminary Agreement with Micron under the CHIPS and Science Act
Idaho News 6: CWI tops out new health and science building, expanding the Nampa Campus
CBS 2: College of Western Idaho celebrates Health and Science Building construction process
BVA: BVA Boardroom Podcast (Interview with President Jones)
Idaho Ed News: CWI celebrates start of new building projects
Capital Press: Agriculture complex part of College of Western Idaho expansion
News Highlights
Looking Back at Community College Month
April is Community College Month across America — a time when schools including College of Western Idaho (CWI) are recognized for the value they provide to students, families, and the economies. On April 1, President Gordon Jones and other community college presidents from Idaho joined Gov. Brad Little at the Capitol as he signed a ceremonial proclamation, underscoring the vital role that CWI and others play in offering accessible, high-quality education, fostering workforce development, and building stronger communities.
Community College Month at CWI was jam-packed with events and news, providing a glimpse into the momentum behind the College.
26 Medals! CWI Shines at SkillsUSA Idaho Competition
College of Western Idaho brought home 26 medals from the 2024 SkillsUSA Idaho State Leadership and Skills Conference.
Nagel Foundation Scholarship Fund Tops $1M in Donations After 6 Years Supporting CWI Students
After a $224,000 donation on April 8, The Nagel Foundation has now invested over $1M to support successful student outcomes at CWI.
CWI Celebrates New Chapter of Campus Expansion with Bridge Signing Ceremony
CWI celebrated campus development with a ceremonial bridge signing, showcasing the College’s dynamic future.
Connections Project Showcases Student Excellence
The College community came together for the ninth-annual Connections Project, which celebrates and showcases the hard work and accomplishments of CWI’s students.
Trading Up: Scholarships at CWI Receive a $100,000 Boost from Teens 2 Trades
CWI received a $100,000 gift from the Teens 2 Trades program to fund scholarships for plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and welding students.
Student Leadership Award Winners Recognized at Annual Banquet
Students at CWI were recognized and celebrated for their leadership on campus and in the community at the Student Leadership Banquet Friday, April 26.
New Health and Sciences Building Topped Off at Nampa Campus
A ceremony was held on April 26 to celebrate the completion of the structural framework of the new Health and Sciences Building.
NWCCU Approves CWI To Pursue Offering Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) approved CWI to offer a Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Administration. This decision followed the Idaho State Board of Education's approval for CWI to pursue this new offering.
2024 Grad Fest – Let’s Celebrate Our Grads!
Congratulations, 2024 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) 2024 Commencement Ceremony with Grad Fest, Friday, May 3.
Grad Fest
Friday, May 3
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!
CWI’s Workforce Development will also host a ceremony for Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing apprenticeship graduates, where there will be guest speakers and students will be presented with their certificates of completion. The certificate ceremonies will be held at Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) in room 102E.
Electrical Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
HVAC Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Plumbing Certificate Ceremony
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 102E
5:00 – 5:30 p.m.
GED Completion
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 105
6 – 7 p.m.
Nuestra Celebración
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), room 122
5:30 – 6:45 p.m.
We can’t wait to celebrate you and look forward to 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 2024 Commencement Ceremony.
See You at Commencement!
College of Western Idaho (CWI) will celebrate its 2024 graduating class in a commencement ceremony Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m. The ceremony, held at ExtraMile Arena in Boise, will recognize degree, certificate, GED, and Workforce Development apprenticeship graduates. In addition to in-person attendance, the ceremony will also be streamed on the College’s website - cwi.edu/live.
Graduates are encouraged to check their student email account, the CWI newsroom, the College’s social media channels, and the Graduation page regularly for announcements and up-to-date information. Please email registrar@cwi.edu with any questions.
Congratulations to all our 2024 graduates! You made it!
2024 Commencement Seeking Volunteers
The 2024 Commencement for College of Western Idaho (CWI) is right around the corner! The ceremony, held at ExtraMile Arena in Boise, will take place on Friday, May 10, at 7 p.m. Employees are encouraged to share in the success of CWI students by volunteering to help staff the event.
Time slots are based on assignment and volunteers are welcome to stay for the entire ceremony or leave when duties are complete. The available shifts are:
- 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
- 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
To volunteer, email registrar@cwi.edu by Monday, April 22, at 5 p.m. and indicate the shift you would like to work. While volunteer times cannot be guaranteed, preferences will be taken into consideration.
Thank you to all who are willing and able to help at this event. Commencement would not be possible with you!
Connections Project Showcases Student Excellence
Throughout College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) Thursday, April 18, students around the College community came together for the ninth-annual Connections Project. The event celebrates and showcases the hard work and accomplishments of CWI’s students.
Winners of this year’s Connections Excellence Awards were presented at the Connections Project reception and at CWI’s Student Leadership Banquet. Finalists were determined by a panel of judges, and each received $100 and $150 prizes.
Connections Excellence Award Winners
Posters
Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) Category
- First Place – Erica Kreczkowski, Jessica Tisch, How Cognitive Distortions can Influence Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Attachment Styles, and Emotional Well-Being of College Students
- Second Place – Kiana Woodruff, Access to Mental Health Services
- Third Place – Jose Mendoza, Ali German, Angel Carrera, Whitney chase, Yasmeen Ramirez, Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE)s on Early Adulthood
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category
- First Place – Elliot Johnson, Comparing Biodiversity Between Canyon County Irrigation Canal and Boise River
- Second Place – Kate Helmer, Gateway Arch for College Algebra and Trigonometry Signature Assignment
- Third Place – Cheylee Corle, Macroinvertebrate Population Variety in Urban Creeks Compared to Rural Creeks In the Treasure Valley
Recorded Mini-Talk
Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) Category
- First Place – Clinton Florian, Psychology Capstone Project
- Second Place – Jessica Tisch, Confronting Imposter Syndrome
- Third Place – Cassie Peery, Hannah Lange, Charlotte Gullickson, and Claire Westergard, The Ripple Effects of Childhood Trauma: Implications for Adult Relationships
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category
- First Place – Jacob Leuzinger, Organic Compound Signature Assignment
Live Mini-Talk
Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) Category
- First Place – Lorraine Draper, Trauma-Informed Yoga Workshop
- Second Place – Tia Maliqi, Minds in Focus: The Essential Role Psychiatry Plays
- Third Place – Jakob Stevens & Jared Kartel, How Belonging and Loneliness are Impacted by Academic Factors
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Category
- First Place – Scarlett Waski, Mathematically Modeling the Human Heart
- Second Place – Emmie Bevan, The Math and Science Behind the Beer-Lambert Law
Other Cool Stuff
- First Place – Tarah Townsell, What About the Kids That Fall Through the Cracks of Homelessness (a policy brief)
- Second Place – Maia Abiador, Rock & Roll by EDEN (without Music) (a music video scrubbed and re-sounded)
- Third Place – Ryan Everett Heffelfinger, The Peacockatrice’s Trail Magazine (27 page magazine)
Clubs
- Biology Club – Boise River ReWild: Working with Golden Eagle Audubon Society, removing invasive species from the Boise River banks and replanting with native plants
Enrichment Groups
- Speech and Debate – Interpreter’s Theatre of “Puffs” by Matt Cox.
As part of this year’s Phi Rho Pi National Tournament, held in early April in Reno, Nevada, the team competed in the Interpreter’s Theatre event. For this event schools may enter a team of 3-14 students who will present a 25-minute piece that interprets literature for an audience through dramatic performance. This year, CWI Speech & Debate students presented an Interpeter’s Theatre piece entitled “Puffs” by author Matt Cox, which they will share live with Connections Day attendees.
Connections Logo Contest
- Winner – Quinn Forman
Juried Art Exhibition
- Winner – Christina Borrowman, "Eye of the Beholder"
President’s Writing Awards
Creative Nonfiction
- First Place – Rebecca Young for “Graveyard Shelf” written for Carl Della Badia’s English 191 class
- Second Place – Aspen Rice for “Looking Out” written for Maura Brantley’s dual credit English 101 class
- Third Place – Alexandra Murphy for “Ketchup” written for Carl Della Badia’s English 191 class
Critical Analysis
- First Place – Peyton MacDonald for “Tet Offensive During the Vietnam War: Change in American Sentiment” written for Reggie Jayne’s History 190 class
- Second Place – Breanna Perkins for “Salem Village: Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire” written for Reggie Jayne’s History 190 class
- Third Place – Rye Johnson for “Prison Structures and Subservience” written for Lynne Tucker’s English 190 class
Fiction
- First Place – Rebecca Young for “Redemption” written for Carl Della Badia’s English 191 class
- Second Place – Alexandra Murphy for “Salvation Knoll” written for Carl Della Badia’s English 191 class
- Third Place – Mak Gilley for “Late Night” written for Dave Nicholas’ English 242 class
First-Year Writing
- First Place – David Barnard for “Harvesting the Fields of My Voice” written for Dzevad Vrabac English 101 class
- Second Place – Natalia Patkowski for “Don't Dream It's Over” written for Dave Nicholas’ English 101 class
- Third Place – Shannon Javanbakht for “From Punishment to Progress: Why Recovery Homes Matter” written for Liza Long’s English 102 class
Literature Based Research
- First Place – Jessica Tisch, Sunny Smart, Amanda Pieroni, Kerry Draper, and Garrett French for “Social Media Use and Narcissism: Examining how Self-Perception, Socialization, Culture, and Socio-Emotional Connections Relate to Vulnerable, Grandiose, and Communal Narcissism and Social Media Use” written for Heather Schoenherr’s Psychology 190 class
- Second Place – Sarah Garrett for “Addressing the Need of Mental Health Education: Effect on Children's Academic and Personal Development” written for Emily Bergstrom’s Psychology 201 class
- Third Place – Taylor Hubbard for “Labor in the American Civil War: Causes of the New York Strikes of Late 1863” written for Reginald Jayne’s History 190 class
Original Research
- First Place – Jessica Tisch for “Cognitive Distortions: A Survey About Thinking Strategies and Their Relationship to Social Anxiety, Perfectionism, and Attachment” written for Jana McCurdy and Heather Schoenherr’s Psychology 250 and 251 classes
- Second Place – Jakob Stevens for “Cognitive Distortions: A Survey Analyzing Thinking Strategies and Their Relationship to Emotional Reasoning, Perfectionism, and Academic Success” written for Jana McCurdy and Heather Schoenherr’s Psychology 250 and 251 classes
- Third Place – Sarah Garrett for “Nature Connectedness and Well-Being: Self-Reported Effect of Time Spent Outdoors on an Individual's Overall Health” written for Jana McCurdy and Heather Schoenherr’s Psychology 250 and 251 classes
Poetry
- First Place – Kassandra Kolbet for “Weight of the World” written for Joshua Rippy’s Theater 101 class
- Second Place – Sam Hazard for “Dead Men Smoking” written for Abby Wolford’s English 241 class
- Third Place – Adilene Ambriz for “Mangos” written for Collin Hughes’ English 215 class
Workplace Writing
- First Place – Ashlynn Banning for “Communication is a Human Right” written for Shelly Conley-Durkin’s Sociology 290 class
- Second Place – Mietta Sibert for “Emergency Response and Preparedness” written for Stephanie Barham’s Administrative Specialist 231 class
- Third Place – Sarah Garrett for “The Impact of Independence” written for Heather Schoenherr’s Sociology 290 class
Thank you to the judges, instructors, and participants of this year’s Connection Project, and congratulations, again, to the winners!
Student Leadership Award Winners Recognized at Annual Banquet
Students at College of Western Idaho (CWI) were recognized and celebrated for their leadership on campus and in the community at the Student Leadership Awards Banquet on Friday, April 26, at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) in Boise.
2023-2024 Award Winners
Community Service Program of the Year
Biology Club for their partnership with the Boise River ReWild Project, which is a two-year commitment to restore degraded habitat near the Boise River by removing invasive plants and planting native flora.
The Community Service Program of the Year award honors a program that has engaged students in service while encouraging students to selflessly serve beyond this one experience.
Social Program of the Year
Student Veterans of America for their VA Suicide Awareness Workshop, which informed staff, faculty, and students on recognizing suicide risk factors, intervention strategies, and local mental health resources – all critical to supporting student veterans transitioning to civilian life.
This award recognizes a program that has contributed to the sense of community on campus by encouraging students to come together and meaningfully engage with one another and/or the Ada County/Canyon County communities.
Student Organization of the Year
Biology Club for exceling in community engagement, collaboration, inclusivity, and leadership development, inspiring both academic excellence and community spirit.
This award is presented to an organization that demonstrates excellence in all areas of community engagement, collaboration, diversity, and inclusion, and leadership development.
Student Organization Advisor of the Year
Heather Schoenherr from the Psychology Club for her dedication to ensuring the club thrived amidst a pandemic and fostering club success through research opportunities, mentorship, and career connections.
The Student Organization Advisor Award honors an advisor who has excelled in providing support and assistance to a club/organization. The recipient has devoted time and service that has played a key role in the organization’s success.
Outstanding Officer of the Year
Ramon Murguia from the Psychology Club for his curiosity, networking and tireless dedication as a leader which has transformed the Psychology Club at CWI into a thriving and welcoming environment.
The Outstanding Officer/Representative of the Year Award honors a student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout their term of office and has enhanced participation and involvement within their organization, the campus, and the community as a whole.
Quiet Influence Award
Emily Anderson from the ASL Club for promoting understanding of the deaf community and fostering a more inclusive campus environment.
This award honors an individual student who has contributed to their organization and campus community in a meaningful yet behind-the-scenes way.
Rising Leader Award
Ramon Murguia from the Psychology Club for demonstrating professionalism, inclusivity, and strong work ethic as he spearheaded the club’s growth in various roles.
This award honors a student who does not need a title in order to fill a leadership role. This student has shown throughout the year a newfound commitment to serve the Ada and Canyon County campuses and communities side-by-side with the elected student leaders and administration of the campus. This student can be found helping to complete any task needed while helping to model the core values and mission of the College.
Trailblazing Leadership Award
Elliot Johnson from the Biology Club for bridging campus life and the Treasure Valley community through his impactful leadership and innovative projects.
This prestigious award honors a second-year or graduating student leader who has engaged themselves in a significant leadership role on campus. The Trailblazing Leadership Award includes those students who have come to CWI with leadership experience or have developed leadership skills through the many opportunities the campus offers. Through their involvement, recipients of the Trailblazing Leadership Award have shown ambitions to improve campus life and strengthen the Ada and Canyon County communities.
Thank you, and congratulations to all our student leaders, clubs, advisors, staff, and faculty who have helped make the 2023-2024 academic year a success!
New Health and Sciences Building Topped Off at Nampa Campus
Friday, April 26 proved a historic day for the College of Western Idaho (CWI) as it celebrated the completion of the structural framework for its new Health and Science Building. This prominent milestone was marked with a unique “topping off” ceremony, casting a spotlight on the future of healthcare education.
The jubilation extended beyond the boundaries of CWI, with trustees, students, faculty, and Idaho State Legislature members cheering on as the final beam was placed. Getting to this important construction phase was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the CWI community and a generous $10 million contribution from the state.
“Today’s topping off ceremony marks a pivotal moment for our institution,” said CWI president Gordon Jones. “The Health and Science Building is not just a structure but a beacon of our commitment to innovation as well as delivering accessible and affordable education that leads to employment.”
Vice Chair of the CWI Board of Trustees, Cherie Buckner-Webb, added, “This ceremony is a celebration of progress, collaboration, and the future of the College of Western Idaho. We are building more than just a building; we are creating opportunities that will impact our community for generations to come.”
The cutting-edge Health and Science Building is set to feature advanced laboratories, cutting-edge technology, and flexible learning spaces, creating an interactive environment that fosters innovation.
Learn more about campus expansion projects on our website.
Cyber Summer Camp Open for Registration
Do you know a high school student interested in breaking into the cybersecurity industry? Join College of Western Idaho (CWI) for Cyber Summer Camp on July 22 – 26!
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.
Cyber Summer Camp
July 22 – 26
9 a.m – 3 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), room 1425
Cost: $200 per student
Register for Cyber Summer Camp
If you are interested in the scholarship opportunity for this course, please contact Sara via e-mail at SaraHoyt@cwi.edu prior to registration.
CWI Computer Science and Information Technology faculty and students are needed to assist during these week-long camps, held during the summer. To volunteer, please email cyberdefense@cwi.edu.
Learn more about Computer Science and Information Technology from CWI.
Honors Society Inducts New Members at Spring Induction Ceremony
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the National Honor Society, inducted 15 new members on Saturday at the spring Induction Ceremony. Provost Denise Aberle-Cannata and former officer and CWI alum Breanna Upchurch spoke at the event, with inductees learning about the history of Phi Theta Kappa. The ceremony was led by Vice President of Leadership, Andy Del Toro Obeso, Vice President of Scholarship, Keith Castillo, and Vice President of Fellowship, William Soltau.
To be involved in PTK at CWI, students need to have earned 12 credits and have a 3.25 GPA. Members have access to scholarships and have the opportunity to contribute to several projects over the course of the year. To learn more about PTK, visit ptk.org or email ptk@cwi.edu.
Registration for Fall 2024
For those starting out or starting something big — register for classes this fall at College of Western Idaho (CWI)! With a variety of resources, flexible course options, and caring instructors, CWI is here to help you on your pathway to success every step of the way.
Here are the details!
Fall 2024 Registration Dates
- Apr 8 – Priority Registration Opens (continuing students)
- Apr 15 – Open Registration Begins (all students)
- Aug 10 – Admission Deadline
- Aug 19 – Classes Begin
- Aug 21 – Registration Deadline
Continuing Students
Get first pick of the classes, schedule, and instructors you want this fall during priority registration, now open for current students.
- Be sure to meet with your advisor prior to registering. Students can register any time on or after their assigned registration time.
- Registration times are assigned based on cumulative credits earned. Check myCWI and your student email for your assigned time.
- Continuing students are considered those who enrolled and attended classes any semester since Fall 2021.
- Dual credit students will register during open registration.
New Students
Open registration for all students, including new and returning, begins Monday, April 15.
New to CWI? The Fall 2024 admission deadline for 16-week class session is Saturday, Aug. 10. All, new, degree, and non-degree seeking students must apply to CWI prior to registering for classes.
Non-Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once admitted to CWI, new, non-degree seeking students may immediately register for classes.
Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once admitted to CWI, new, degree-seeking students must participate in New Student Orientation and meet with their advisor prior to registering for classes.
Additional Information
- Visit Cost & Aid to learn more about options for students in need of financial assistance including federal financial aid, scholarships, loans, and Work-Study.
- Watch for emails and texts with next steps for the completion of the registration process. Contact One Stop Student Services or your Advisor with any questions or concerns.
- For those interested in learning about other dates and deadlines for Fall 2024 semester, including 8-week class sessions, please visit CWI's academic calendar.
Health Programs Application Deadlines
Are you interested in a career in healthcare? College of Western Idaho (CWI) has a variety of Health Science programs available to prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career in this growing industry.
Applications are now open and must be submitted by their respective deadlines. All programs listed below are competitive entry and require a supplemental application process. Visit individual program pages linked below for information, application instructions specific to each program, and assistance.
PROGRAM APPLICATION PERIODS
Opening Dates
- Surgical First Assistant – Sept. 2
- Practical Nursing – Sept. 27
- Surgical Technology – Nov. 1
- Occupational Therapy Assistant – February 2025
- Physical Therapist Assistant – March 2025
Deadlines
- Registered Nursing – Oct. 25
- Practical Nursing – Nov. 1
- Surgical First Assistant – Dec. 13
Have questions or need help?
- Current students are encouraged to meet with their Advisor to discuss options.
- Visit CWI's Health Sciences page for more information and program contact information.
Healthcare Career Opportunities
Careers in the healthcare field have some of the greatest need as our communities continue to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations; this increase is expected to result in about 2 million new jobs over the decade. In addition to new jobs from growth, opportunities arise from the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently. About 1.9 million openings each year, on average, are projected to come from growth and replacement needs.”
