CWI News – Oct. 03, 2025
News Highlights
CWI’s Ninth Semester of Growth: Student Success Reaches New Heights
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is celebrating its ninth consecutive semester of enrollment growth, marking a 7.6% increase in headcount and an 8.1% rise in credits taken for the fall semester. This trajectory not only highlights CWI’s expanding impact as Idaho’s largest community college but also reflects the dedication and determination of students, faculty, and staff across the College.
This fall, 962 Idaho LAUNCH participants are enrolled in CWI classes, further demonstrating the College’s role in supporting Idaho’s workforce and education goals.
Additionally, CWI has reached a historic milestone by achieving its highest-ever Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 150% graduation rate of 36%, surpassing the national average of 34% for community colleges. This marks a 9% increase in the graduation rate over the past two years, underscoring the effectiveness of CWI’s institution-wide strategies to champion student completion and propel learners toward their goals.
“We are proud to achieve another semester of enrollment growth at CWI, reflecting the trust students and our community place in us to transform lives through education,” said President Gordon Jones. “It is also inspiring to see a 9% increase in our graduation rates. These accomplishments belong to the entire CWI community, whose dedication and innovation are making a lasting difference for our students and for Idaho.”
Opening Doors Event Raises $243K for Students
Community spirit shined bright as supporters came together for the College of Western Idaho (CWI) Foundation’s Opening Doors Scholarship Event, raising funds to help students achieve a brighter future. The 12th-annual Opening Doors Scholarship Event and online auction, Sept. 15 – 28, raised $243,544* benefiting student scholarships.
The live event, hosted Friday, Sept. 26 in the QUAD area in front of the new Nampa Campus Health and Science Building (NCHS), brought together CWI leaders, community members, and supporters for an evening filled with student success stories and spirited bidding. Guests also heard remarks from CWI Vice President of Advancement, Mark Arstein; CWI Foundation Board President, Mike Peña; and CWI President, Gordon Jones.
Students and alumni who have received scholarships were also part of the evening, sharing their stories and connecting with guests to show firsthand the impact of community support. Throughout the event, attendees watched video testimonials from faculty and students, highlighting how donor generosity continues to strengthen the College and expand opportunities for students.
“The amount of support that CWI receives is amazing,” said Horticulture Technology student, Jessica Conley. “Being a nontraditional student, I support myself. There were semesters when I could only take a few classes because of the financial strain. Because of the scholarships I’ve received, I can now attend full time and pursue my dreams. Without this support, it would not be possible.”
Guests at the in-person event were able to interact with a variety of students and faculty representing diverse programs from Collision Repair to Fire Service Technology and bid on silent auction items. The evening concluded with a paddle raise led by auctioneer Kevin Seward, where supporters pledged donations, some as high as $10,000, to benefit the CWI Foundation.
Auction highlights included a one-of-a-kind firepit created by a CWI Welding student, a handcrafted chess board with custom pieces designed by CWI Bookstore Manager, Stephanie Walker, and her father, Dennis Walker, along with experience packages, sporting event tickets, and more – with a three-month-old Labradoodle puppy becoming one of the stars of the evening.
“I’m once again inspired by the incredible generosity of CWI’s donors and friends,” said Arstein. “The success of Opening Doors is a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to our mission and vision, and the life-changing impact this support has on our students.”
It is never too late to give the gift of education. Visit the CWI Foundation online to learn more and donate today.
Contact the Foundation at 208.562.3100 or foundation@cwi.edu for more information and ways to get involved.
*The numbers are an early estimate before finalized expenses.
Give a 'Thank You' During National Tutor Week
They are there when you need a hand understanding course materials, breaking down content, or preparing for exams — it’s our College of Western Idaho (CWI) Tutoring Services team! CWI is proud to recognize the efforts of our tutors during National Tutor Week, Oct. 6 – 10.
Each semester, CWI employs 60 – 70 tutors who bring knowledge and skills across a wide variety of subjects, including science, technology, engineering, math, business, Career Technical Education, and more.
Tutoring Services is here to support CWI students’ success in college and beyond. Students have free access to drop-in tutoring and one-on-one appointments, either online or on campus, as well as on-demand help through Upswing in Canvas.
While each tutor comes with an area of expertise, they also complete specialized training to ensure students receive the best support possible. This training equips tutors with tools to help identify challenges, assess areas of struggle, and create personalized plans for success.
This week, join us in showing gratitude to our amazing tutors! Stop by Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Room 209 and Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Room 1304 to leave a note of appreciation on the Tutor Services bulletin boards.
Students, faculty, and staff can also share a message of thanks by emailing tutoring@cwi.edu.
Learn more about some of the incredible tutors making a difference at CWI and the impact they are having in our classrooms and beyond!
Health & Wellness Screenings Arrive at CWI This October
Life moves fast, and finding time for medical appointments can be a real challenge, especially when juggling classes, work, and your personal life. Counseling and Wellness Services at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is thrilled to announce the first-ever Mobile Health Fair.
In partnership with Full Circle Health, Saint Alphonsus Mobile Mammography, and Saint Alphonsus Mobile Medical Unit, CWI’s case managers are bringing essential health services directly to you. Stop by when it works for you, or schedule ahead if you prefer by calling 208.367.4482.
This unique event will provide a variety of vital health services free of charge for students and staff, including:
- Basic Health Testing (blood pressure, glucose, etc.)
- HIV Testing
- Social Needs (e.g., help with housing, food insecurities, utilities, etc.)
Additionally, mammograms will be available with proof of insurance and if certain qualifications are met, including specific history and age.
Mobile Health Fair
- Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), east side of the building
In tandem with the Mobile Health Fair, Counseling and Wellness Services will be hosting a two-day mental health wellness event. It’s Okay Not to Be Okay , will offer free mental health screenings and provide resources to support suicide prevention, assistance with intimate partner violence, and nicotine cessation.
Free Mental Health Screenings
- Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN)
- Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Student Lounge, Room 122
Contact Juan Sanchez at juansanchez1@cwi.edu with questions.
Honoring the First-Gen Journey
Are you a first-generation college student? Join us for the First-Generation Awareness Day Event, celebrating students who are the first in their families to attend college, where neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree. This event is open to everyone, whether you identify as first-generation or not.
Come hear the stories of current students, graduates, faculty, and staff as they share their experiences, challenges, and achievements as a first-generation student. Enjoy food, connect with others, and discover resources to support your own journey to success. Why celebrate in November?
Thursday, Nov. 6
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Nampa Campus in the Academic Building (NCAB), Student Lounge – Room 122
CWI Employees: Get Your FREE First-Gen Shirt!
In conjunction with the Nov. 6 event, CWI employees have the opportunity to get a free First-Gen shirt to wear Nov. 4 – 6 at your place of work. Help CWI raise awareness and celebrate First-Generation college students this year.
Click here to learn more and request a shirt while supplies last.
Speech and Debate Kicks Off 2025 Season at Fran Tanner Open
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Speech and Debate team launched the 2025-2026 season with a successful showing at the Fran Tanner Open, hosted Sept. 26 and 27 at College of Southern Idaho. The annual fall tournament welcomed programs from across the region and served as the official kickoff to the collegiate forensics season.
Led by Director of Forensics, Julia Bennett, and Assistant Director, Johnny Rowing, CWI competitors, a mix of returning veterans and first-time competitors, made their mark in both speech and debate events.
In the Novice International Public Debate Association (IPDA) division, newcomers Brayden Wilkerson and Thane Eddington dominated the field, closing out the division to claim gold and silver respectfully. In speech events, Marlee Novak and McKay Steffler teamed up in Duo Interpretation, where they earned bronze.
The tournament also marked a special return for Rowing, one of the program’s founding coaches. After helping launch the team and leading it until 2017, Rowing rejoined the forensics coaching staff this fall.
“Returning to my first tournament after so many years has felt a bit like coming home,” Rowing said. “Rather than seeing familiar streets and storefronts I returned to students facing fears, researching topics, supporting one another, and finding a way to achieve excellence. What a thing, a magical thing.”
CWI Speech and Debate will continue its season at the Mahaffey Memorial Tournament, hosted at Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon, Nov. 14 – 16.
For more information about CWI’s Speech and Debate team, contact Julia Bennett at juliabennett@cwi.edu.
Fall 2025 Transfer Fair
Thinking about continuing your education after CWI? Don’t miss the Fall 2025 Transfer Fair! Representatives from colleges and universities across the region will be on campus to share information about programs, majors, and transfer requirements to help you plan your next step.
Tuesday, Oct. 7
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Nampa Campus in the Academic Building (NCAB), first-floor lobby
Learn more about transferring from CWI and explore the full list of colleges and universities that will be present.
For questions, please contact Madi Avila at madyavila@cwi.edu or Chewy Alvarez chewyalvarez@cwi.edu in Student Advising and Success.
Central Receiving & Mail Services Launching Soon
College of Western Idaho (CWI) is implementing a new central receiving and mail services system designed to improve efficiency and ensure timely delivery of mail and packages across all campuses. The new system will centralize how mail, packages, and freight are received and distributed. The transition begins Oct. 1, 2025, with full implementation expected by Jan. 2, 2026.
Key changes include:
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Mailing Address Update (effective Oct. 1, 2025): Campus mail will now be processed at 5500 E. Opportunity Dr., Nampa, ID 83687. The current P.O. Box address will remain valid until Oct. 1, 2026.
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Central Receiving Launch (Jan. 2, 2026): All incoming deliveries of parcels and freight will be received at 5725 E. Franklin Rd., Nampa, ID 83687.
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Mail Stops: New mail stops will be added and select existing ones will be updated to ensure accurate delivery. For example, Canyon County Center will transition to MS 4000 to give the CWI One Stop its own unique code.
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Outgoing Shipments: Departments can request pickup for outgoing mail and packages by emailing centralreceiving@cwi.edu.
Departments across the College are asked to update business cards, stationery, email signatures, and websites with the new addresses. Marketing and Communications will provide updated brand templates ahead of the transition.
“This move reflects CWI’s commitment to supporting our growing community with reliable and efficient services, we appreciate everyone’s cooperation to make this transition smooth,” said Jeff Flynn, Executive Director, Facilities Planning and Management
With these changes, CWI is preparing for a more efficient future in handling mail and deliveries. Faculty and staff are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated processes and are responsible for communicating these updates to external business partners.
For more details, view this PDF or contact centralreceiving@cwi.edu.
