CWI News – May 5, 2023
Bold Appreciation
Thank you faculty and staff for all of your work this academic year. In appreciation of all that you have contributed, the President's Cabinet would like to treat everyone to a coffee and gather to celebrate a successful graduation.
Join us as the Double Decker Coffee Bus visits our campus locations at the following times (please note, Monday, May 15 and Tuesday, May 16 have updated locations):
- Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN) — Monday, May 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) — Tuesday, May 16, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Canyon County Center (CYNC) — Thursday, May 18, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Nampa Campus Administration Building (NADM) — Friday, May 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
CWI in the News
News Highlights
Grad Fest Brings Graduates Together to Celebrate Big
It was a packed house Wednesday, May 3, as College of Western Idaho (CWI) graduates, their family, friends, and support system took over the Nampa Campus Academic Building for Grad Fest! The annual party helps kick-off graduation events around the College by bringing together the mighty CWI community with activities, food, and lots of celebrations.
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, music and a DJ provided by Rocky Mountain Roll, merchandise from the CWI Bookstore, giveaways, grand prize drawings, and more.
Graduates were also able to reflect on their time at CWI through the College’s Marketing and Communication photo booth table. Signs with different prompts allowed students and community members to give shout-outs, share a favorite memory from their time at the College, announce what is next for them in life, and more!
“Because of CWI, my dreams are now achievable dreams,” wrote Elliot Johnson.
“A moment I’ll never forget is being the first in my family to graduate,” signed Sky Tarrant.
“To my first-semester self, you took a step and went a mile,” said Jamie Christensen.
There was even more to celebrate at this year’s Grad Fest as CWI’s Workforce Development hosted Certificate Ceremonies for their Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Apprenticeship graduates.
Each of the three apprenticeship programs had its own certificate ceremony where nearly 230 Workforce Development Apprentices received their certificate of completion from their respective four-year program.
- HVAC — 65 apprentices
- Electrical — 115 apprentices
- Plumbing — 46 apprentices
All student apprentices are required to have a minimum of 576 hours of classroom (in-person or online) training to complete a four-year program. Workforce Development also aims to have students earn 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience throughout their four years to be able to take Idaho’s Occupational and Professional License exam to become a licensed Journeymen.
The ceremonies included guest speakers from industry leaders around the Treasure Valley, including UMC, Inc. Project Executive, Less Bassard, Rundle Electric’s Bill Stokes, and Fox Heating and Cooling’s Dennis Fox.
“It was so exciting to see families and friends celebrate the success of their graduates,” said Director of CWI's Work-Based Learning Center, John Russ. “It was also a great opportunity to celebrate the families that had to sacrifice time with their loved ones to achieve this goal. It was truly a family celebration of four years of studies and hard work.”
With hundreds in attendance and a good time had by all, 2023 Grad Fest was a success!
Next up is CWI’s 14th Commencement Ceremony, 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 12.
For those with questions or in need of more information, visit the Commencement page.
Working Hard to Achieve Her Dreams
To say College of Western Idaho (CWI) Registered Nursing (RN) student, Sara Alton, had an eventful two years in the program may be an understatement.
When Alton entered the program in Fall 2021, she was six months pregnant with her youngest.
She was inspired to attend college because she has always wanted to further her education and use that knowledge to serve the community she lives in.
Having a fascination with working in medicine, Alton chose to pursue nursing after discovering this path would allow her to further her knowledge, exercise precise skills, and have the most interactions with patients. The decision to attend CWI to receive that education was an easy one for the wife and, now, mother of two.
“There was a more well-round application process for nursing, it was affordable, and allowed me to still prioritize my family,” Alton said.
Alton’s experience in the program solidified her decision to come to CWI for her training and schooling was the correct one. She says the RN program has provided her and her classmates with real-world experiences —whether it is learning the fundamentals in a lab with mannequins, experiencing simulations to have a safe place to learn and practice clinical judgment, or getting the opportunity to go through real-life clinicals to implement their knowledge.
She also credits the program’s instructors to being instrumental in her success.
“They afford the opportunity to ask questions, receive feedback, and improve on your knowledge and take it to the next level. When I started in the program and was pregnant, the professors met with me regularly and supported me to be successful in the program.”
This support remained true when Alton’s son was born six weeks prematurely and prompted her to a NICU stay in the middle of the semester.
But even through those unexpected events, Alton’s education never faltered. She earned a 4.0 GPA that semester and was even elected as CWI’s Student Nurses Association President and an Emerging Scholar for the following academic year.
Alton is now set to graduate and earn her Associate of Science degree from CWI’s RN program at the end of Spring 2023, where she then will finish up her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Lewis-Clark State College, which she is currently in the bridge program for. After that, Alton will begin work as an RN at St. Luke’s Health System in their telemetry and cardiac step-down units.
As she gets ready for the next path in her life, Alton reflects on what she’s been able to accomplish over the last two years. This experience through the program has shown Alton she can do difficult things and succeed in whatever she puts her mind to.
“Because of CWI, I have the opportunity to succeed in my dreams and be an example to those who want to do the same.”
She encourages others going through or about to start the program to stay motivated.
“It's hard work, but completely doable. You have every resource available to succeed!”
Applications for CWI’s Registered Nursing program are open through Friday, May 19. For more information on the application process and requirements, please visit the Registered Nursing page, or contact Allison Baker at allisonbaker2@cwi.edu or 208.562.2307.
Using His ‘Why’ To Find Success
As you pass through the halls at College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Ada County Center Pintail Building, you’ll often find Business student, Kilawusi Gato, studying and utilizing the College’s Tutoring Services. Gato has big goals for himself for the future and knows if he wants to someday achieve them — he must put in the work.
“I want to get into real estate and real estate investing,” said Gato. “I enjoy working with people. I’ve already been in contact with people who are in those careers.”
Gato is finishing up his third semester at CWI, where he plans to graduate in Spring 2024 and transfer to Boise State University to study International Business and Marketing.
He chose to attend CWI because he felt its affordability and class sizes would allow him to thrive in school.
“It just felt right. I didn’t want to join a class that had hundreds of students because it would be really hard to concentrate and focus. At CWI, the classes are smaller and I feel like I get more support.”
That feeling of support at school is something very important to Gato.
Originally from Uganda, Gato moved to Idaho in 2016 and always dreamed of attending college in the United States. But being a refugee student, he struggled with a language barrier.
“When I first got to CWI, one of the first classes I stepped into I was like, ‘Wow, it’s kind of hard.’ Because the English comprehension level was really high, I dropped out in my first semester. I also didn’t have books or a working computer which made things even harder.”
However, that setback was not enough for Gato to give up on his dreams of going to school. The following semester he reenrolled at the College and spoke with CWI Advisors to help get a better start this time around.
Through his support system, Gato was able to register for CWI’s Bridge to English 101 course. It is a class through the Adult Education program that prepares students for English 101 (ENGL-101) with help in academic writing, critical reading, digital skills, and finding college resources for additional help to achieve success in school, like CWI Tutoring Services.
Gato said these tools at the College helped him feel a lot more confident in his abilities.
“I came back more prepared because I had dreams I wanted to achieve and plans for the future. I was able to knock it out of the park.”
A few semesters later, Gato is still “knocking it out of the park” in his classes and still regularly visits Tutoring Services for additional support. With his newfound confidence at school, he is also not afraid to approach his instructors and professors when he needs some extra guidance and help on course material.
Gato says his goal of being successful in a career post-college to help support those he loves is his motivation to keep going and work hard.
“For others who may be struggling in school or with a language barrier, you have to find your biggest ‘Why’ you want to go to school. Mine is because I want to show my family and others in my generation what I can accomplish. I want to be there for my family, whose first language is also not English. They are my ‘Why.’”
He also encourages others to not be afraid to talk to people and find help if they are struggling — just like he did.
For those interested in learning more about the Bridge Program, contact Adult Education Supervisor, Trevi Hardy, at trevihardy@cwi.edu. Those in need of more information about CWI’s Tutoring Services are asked to contact tutoring@cwi.edu.
Welker Honored with ACBSP Teaching Excellence Award
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Associate Professor of Accounting, Joe Welker, who received a regional 2023 Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Teaching Excellence Award. Each year, ACBSP recognizes educators who exemplify teaching excellence in the classroom.
ACBSP is a business education organization that offers accreditation to all levels of collegiate business education degree programs from associate to doctoral. CWI’s Business department has been accredited through ACBSP since 2018. The organization is the only specialized body for business schools that present awards for recognizing excellence in teaching, which is open to all members to apply.
“It is more important than ever for business programs to produce graduates who are ready to enter the global marketplace,” said ACBSP President and CEO, Jeffrey Alderman. “ACBSP has a mission to develop, promote and recognize best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education. Recognition of teaching excellence is one way we achieve this goal.”
Welker will be honored at the 2023 ACBSP Conference in Chicago, Illinois, June 29 – July 2, where he will also receive a crystal medallion and a $500 check. As a regional recipient, Welker is now a candidate for the International Teaching Excellence Award for an associate degree institution which will be announced and awarded during the conference.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized as a recipient of the 2023 ACBSP Teaching Excellence Award,” Welker said. “Being acknowledged by my peers for my commitment to teaching and passion for education is truly humbling. Coming from a background in military special operations, I know firsthand that peer recognition is the highest form of recognition one can receive. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication that I have put into my teaching career, and I am grateful to have earned the respect and admiration of my fellow educators.”
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to CWI for providing me with the platform and support to be successful in my role as a teacher. Their commitment to student success and dedication to academic excellence has been instrumental in my growth and development as an educator, and I am proud to be a member of such an outstanding institution.”
Be First with ‘I’m First’
A team of students from College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Principles of Promotion (MRKT 203) class are teaming up with Counselor, Yanet Nunez, to promote the College’s new first-generation support group, I’m First.
I’m First is a support group on campus that aims to give the tools and resources to help first-generation and new students navigate college. Being a part of this group can provide practical advice on financial aid, class planning, course loads, studying tips, Blackboard, and more. It can also be a place for emotional support from like-minded people experiencing similar things as you.
Nunez was inspired to create the group because of her own experiences in college.
"I am a first-generation college graduate, the first in my immediate and external family to go to college to get a bachelor’s and master’s degree," Nunez said. "I didn't think that going to a four-year university was something I could do. I needed to do something, though."
Little did Nunez know she would go on to do something huge, and now she wants to help first-generation students, just like her, achieve that significant career opportunity as well.
Nunez believes the help and advice the I'm First support group can give to first-generation students can make the college experience a lot more fun and make one feel like they are guided instead of overwhelmed and on their own.
"My dream is they feel supported, they feel like they belong, and they are capable of doing what they want to do,” Nunez said.
The partnership between I’m First and the Principles of Promotion class was sparked by an assignment given by Marketing and Communications Instructor, Dan Garrity. Each semester Garrity, presents eager Marketing students with opportunities to get practical experience in the world of promotion, while also making a difference in their local community.
“I've always loved challenging students with real-world experiences, but this one is extra special,” said Garrity. “This group took on this assignment, made it their own, then took off running. They've come up with so many creative, unique ideas to apply to their work — ideas that I certainly didn't give them and that didn't come out of a book. They're extra happy to be applying their hard work toward a worthwhile effort. This talented, motivated group of CWI Marketing students is proving what I want the whole community to know about our program: our students are creative, courageous, and ready to go to work no matter what challenges they come across.”
The students selected I’m First because many are first-generation students themselves and understand the struggles of starting a new journey with little practical advice from family.
“We all resonated with the importance of recognizing different stories and journeys in a college experience and helping to make every voice heard,” said team member and student, Micah Schaufele.
For those who are first-generation college students and need guidance, help, or even just want to connect, and would like to connect with I'm First, contact Nunez at yanetnunez@cwi.edu or 208.562.2451.
Thomas Named February 2023 Staff of the Month
Congratulations to College of Western Idaho (CWI) Dual Credit Academic Advisor, Emily Thomas, who was selected as Staff of the Month for February 2023!
Thomas’ role is to help Dual Credit students who are pursuing a degree or certificate at CWI while still in high school. She often meets with students, parents, teachers, and counselors to walk through CWI’s Dual Credit program, creates degree plans for students interested in earning a degree or certificate, and is a resource for students to turn to while they take classes and prepare for the future.
Prior to her current position, Thomas was the Dual Credit Administrative Assistant and Coordinator. She has also served as a representative and Secretary for the College’s Staff Senate and was a member of College Council.
Thomas joined CWI after moving to Idaho in the summer of 2018. She was drawn to the College after hearing and seeing its impacts all around the community — she knew she wanted to be part of it!
“I love how involved CWI is in its community and has the atmosphere of a small town, but really offers so much and serves so many students, especially working in Dual Credit,” said Thomas. “I think Dual Credit is an incredible opportunity for our high school students and being the largest Dual Credit provider in the state of Idaho, CWI really shines in our high school community as well.”
Nearly five years later, Thomas continues to see the positive impacts the College has on the lives around the community. She is thrilled she is able to work with people every day who share the same desire to help and empower students.
“I love my team — they're like my mini family. Even though we have a LOT of fun and enjoy the flexibility that allows a healthy work-life balance, we still work so hard for our students and help over 15,000 high school students statewide earn college credit while in high school. I think that's pretty rewarding, and I am so happy to be a part of this team.”
Those who work alongside Thomas share those same sentiments about her and how diligent and dedicated she is to the students at CWI.
“She goes above and beyond for her students,” said Dual Credit Senior Transition Coordinator, Oster Hernandez. "She is extremely thorough in helping students plan out their academic career. She provides them with useful resources, helps them register for classes, and is always available to meet with students!”
"I have seen Emily go above and beyond for students time and time again, and every time I overhear one of her advising sessions, I am so proud that I get to work with her,” said Dual Credit Advisor, Natasha Montabello. “Emily continues to inspire me to be a better advisor myself, and her sweet demeanor and supportive attitude really goes a long way. I believe her advising style especially supports CWI's core values of integrity, caring, and respect!”
Originally born and raised in Loveland, Colorado, Thomas attended the University of Sioux Falls (USF) in South Dakota where she played on the College’s tennis team while earning her bachelor’s degree in Biology. She also has her Master’s in Human Resource Development from Idaho State University.
While at USF, she met her husband Clint, whom she married in 2018. Together they have one child, Colby Jo, and a Goldendoodle, Bennett.
Outside of the College, Thomas enjoys spending time with her family. She is also a volunteer tennis coach for a local high school and enjoys playing tennis herself when she can. When she’s not on the tennis court, she’s on the basketball court supporting her husband as he coaches a local high school team.
Congratulations, 2023 Graduates!
College of Western Idaho (CWI) will celebrate its 2023 graduating class in a commencement ceremony Friday, May 12, 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 2023 graduates! You made it!
Inclusive Excellence Tid Bits Series: Muslim Cultural Sharing
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Inclusive Excellence Committee is excited to present an opportunity for faculty and staff to learn about the Muslim religion and culture at their upcoming Muslim Cultural Sharing event. The committee’s goal is to promote awareness of Muslim cultures to help collaborate with, support, and show respect for the multicultural CWI community.
Guest speaker, Reshma Kamal, the Education and Outreach Specialist from the Islamic Center of Boise, will offer insight regarding our local Muslim community members. There will be time for question and answer as well as discussion regarding how faculty and staff can work to make CWI’s Muslim students and co-workers feel welcomed and supported at the College.
The Committee invites everyone to join in on the event for an engaging talk and delicious traditional Middle Eastern snacks!
Inclusive Excellence Tid Bits Series: Muslim Cultural Sharing
Thursday, May 11
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Room 1210 or online*
*Link provided with registration
Those interested in attending are asked to please register for the event prior. The event is free and open to all CWI faculty and staff.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact inclusiveexcellence@cwi.edu.
Registration for Fall 2023
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.
Let’s get started!
Important Fall 2023 Dates
- Priority Registration Opens – Monday, April 10
- Open Registration Opens – Monday, April 17
- Admission Deadline for 16-Week Class Session – Saturday, Aug. 12
- Registration Deadline for 16-Week Class Session – Friday, Aug. 18
- First Day of Classes for 16-Week Class Session – Monday, Aug. 21
Continuing Students
Priority registration at CWI for the Fall 2023 semester for 16-week class session begins Monday, April 10. Priority registration allows continuing students a chance to enroll in classes ahead of open registration, helping students stay on track for graduation.
Following are a few tips 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 2020.
- Dual credit students will register during open registration.
New Students
Open registration for all students, including new and returning, begins Monday, April 17.
New to CWI? The Fall 2023 admission deadline for 16-week class session is Saturday, Aug. 12. All, new, degree, and non-degree seeking students must apply to CWI prior to registering for classes. Visit Applying to CWI for a complete list of steps to get started.
Non-Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once accepted to CWI, new, non-degree seeking students may immediately register for classes.
Degree Seeking
- Upon completion of the application process and once accepted to CWI, new, degree-seeking students must participate in New Student Orientation prior to registering for classes.
Course offerings can be viewed in Student Planning for all continuing and returning students.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Contact Financial Aid at financialaid@cwi.edu to learn more about options available for students in need of financial assistance.
The scholarship application period for the 2023-2024 academic year is now open. Apply for a variety of scholarships through a single application. Students interested in applying for scholarships must have the CWI admission application completed, be accepted, and have student account login information.
Students are encouraged to watch for emails and texts with important next steps for the completion of the registration process. Contact One Stop Student Services or your Advisor with any questions or concerns.
Fall registration for the 16-week class session will be open through Friday, Aug. 18, and classes will begin Monday, Aug. 21.
Register for Fall 2023 Classes
For those interested in learning about other dates and deadlines for Fall 2023 semester, including 8-week class session, please visit CWI's academic calendar.
