CWI News – Oct. 20, 2023
Spotlight
College of Western Idaho had a great showing at the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) College Fair this week!
Our incredible Enrollment Counselors and representatives from Career & Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit team interacted with high school juniors and seniors from around the Treasure Valley and introduced them to the different programs and services CWI has to offer. Prospective students got the chance to learn about the different options they have for colleges, as different institutions from around the world came to Boise to participate in the Fair.
News Highlights
Construction Updates
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Nampa Campus is kicking off a new phase of expansion. We are excited to share that infrastructure work for the new Agricultural Science and Horticulture Building will start the week of Oct. 23.
Overview of the work during this phase:
- A new bridge is being built over the Phyllis Canal, connecting our current campus to the new buildings. Starting on Oct. 23 and continuing through March 2024, the Phyllis Canal pathway, roadway, and the Purdam Gulch ditch bank will be closed for bridge construction.
- Piers for the bridge will be driven into the ground around the canal area, leading to significant noise levels during the week of Oct. 23. Students, faculty, and staff in the Nampa Campus Willows Buildings – as well as residents in surrounding neighborhoods should expect to hear noise during this portion of construction.
- The project will include extending a sewer line from East Terra Linda Way to Cherry Lane. A detour on East Terra Linda Way will be in place to ensure the road remains accessible.
The Agricultural Science and Horticulture Building, as well as the Health and Science Building will open in Fall 2025. For the most up-to-date project information, please visit CWI's Campus Development.
Our CWI community's continued patience and understanding during this initial phase of construction are greatly appreciated. Together, we are shaping the future of CWI, and your support is integral to our growth.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our project team at facilities@cwi.edu.
Farm to Fork Dinner Raises $5,000 for the Campus Garden
From the savory embrace of squash soup and sourdough bread to the mouthwatering delight of pumpkin pie ice cream, College of Western Idaho's (CWI) annual Farm to Fork dinner was a culinary adventure through a variety of delightful flavors and tastes! Eighty people from across the College and around the Treasure Valley devoured a tasty, five-course meal at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) Friday, Oct. 6, to support CWI's Campus Garden.
The 2023 Farm to Fork dinner raised more than $5,000 for the garden, which provides CWI students access to fresh produce and supports agriculture coursework. Hosted by Agricultural Sciences faculty and students, showcases an authentic farm-to-fork meal featuring ingredients harvested from CWI's Campus Garden and specialties sourced from local partners in the Treasure Valley.
"It’s great to facilitate an event that supports the campus garden, highlights our local community, and brings people together to share a wonderful meal," said Department Chair and Assistant Professor of Agricultural Sciences, Andrea Schumaker.
The evening commenced with Schumaker leading guests, and volunteers on a tour of the Campus Garden located east of the NCAB parking lot. People were able to see where much of the night’s meal came from.
The meal started with a zucchini garlic fritter and a cheese sauce, from the Campus Garden and Eden Creamery, prepared by Schumaker, the Tower Grill Chef, Nate Lindskoog, and 10 Barrel Brewing Chef, Keith Moreno. This course was paired with Par Terre’s Albarino white wine. Following was a salad greens, pears, tomatoes, and cukes from the CWI Campus Garden, a culinary creation by Moreno. This was paired with Sunny Tom Mint Kombucha from Idaho Kombucha.
A warm and tasty soup followed made from a variety of squashes from the Garden, prepared by Lindskoog and served with sourdough bread from Hudson Bakery Co. paired with 10 Barrel Brewing's Witching Hour beer. The main course was delicious tri-tip from Hoagland Meats, with a delicious side of sautéed mushrooms from Ferg's Fabulous Fungi, mashed taters, and beans paired with Chicken Dinner Red Wine from Huston Vineyards.
Guests then wrapped up their meal with a sweet treat — pumpkin pie ice cream from Stella’s Ice Cream made from pumpkin puree created by Schumaker from pie pumpkins grown in the Campus Garden. Several also enjoyed pairing their dessert with Apple Cider Whiskey Smash from Centerfire Distillery in partnership with Craft Lounge.
This year's event was extra special as Schumaker, Tower Grill employees, and Farm to Fork guests were able to spotlight and recognize the event's longstanding chef, Lindskoog. Lindskoog has been a major supporter of the annual Farm to Fork event and has a deep appreciation for supporting and spotlighting his local community.
"He embraces what Farm to Fork is all about," said Schumaker.
Farm to Fork feature: Tower Grill's Nate LindskoogFarm to Fork feature: Hannah Wilson
Thank you to all who made this year's event a success!
Paving Her Path to Success
Have you ever wondered where a dream can take you? For College of Western Idaho (CWI) student, Kendra Zirschky, it all began in a high school class about parenting and child development. Her fascination with the human body and a desire to make a difference inspired her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) while still in high school.
Zirschky took CNA courses at Skyview High School in Nampa, while completing her skills and written exams through CWI.
After graduating high school and earning her CNA certification in 2020, Zirschky began working at a long-term care and rehabilitation facility. Here, she discovered her passion for caring for those in need, which deepened her desire to become a nurse.
When Kendra decided to advance her education and pursue a nursing career, she researched various schools in the Treasure Valley. She was drawn to CWI's Practical Nursing (PN) program because of its one-year course duration and cost-effectiveness compared to other institutions in the area.
“Since I have been a CNA in long-term care facilities for the last three years, I have worked with many amazing LPNs,” Zirschky said. “I have always respected their role in patient care and when I saw CWI had a PN program, I was interested in starting my nursing career here.”
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) play a crucial role in healthcare. They provide patient care, education, and emotional support, not only to the patients but also to their loved ones. They also collaborate with providers and other healthcare team members to record patient health histories and symptoms, assist with diagnostic tests, operate medical equipment, administer medications and treatments, and ensure patient follow-up. Their compassionate presence is a source of comfort during challenging times.
According to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Employment of LPNs is projected to grow five percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. About 54,400 openings for the occupation are projected each year, faster than average, over the next decade.
“Another benefit of the PN program is that when I am finished, I can immediately apply my nursing skills and knowledge and earn increased wages – it also allows for an easy transition into Registered Nursing if and when I decide to move forward.”
Another aspect that attracted Zirschky to CWI was the PN program's impressive skills laboratories, simulation rooms, and in-depth curriculum. With a combination of theory, laboratory instruction, and hands-on clinical experience, the PN certificate will equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become an LPN.
Now in her third semester of the program, Zirschky can attest to how the program's resources and learning experiences help prepare students for a successful future career.
“The advanced technology and resources provided to the PN program allow us to practice hands-on skills and practice real-life simulations without the pressure of a grade or making mistakes that harm patient care. From my mom’s outside perspective, she says that she has been surprised and impressed with the amount of growth and learning that CWI has given me in such an accelerated time.”
While the workload can be demanding at times, Zirschky also attributes her success in the program to the instructors who have guided her and her fellow students over the past year. She feels the instructors are genuinely supportive and great resources to help students master the knowledge to become LPNs.
“Instructor, Melanie Gier, has exceeded my expectations as she has been such a great role model for me as a Practical Nursing student. She portrays many of the essential characteristics of a great nurse. She checks up on us often, always has a positive attitude and therapeutic presence, and is very professional. She plays a huge role in helping us to achieve our dreams of being the best nurses we can be.”
As she prepares for program completion in December, Zirschky feels confident and ready to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become an LPN. Through CWI, she has been given her the platform to explore her potential and find the motivation to achieve her dreams.
“I truly believe that nursing is my calling, and I am so grateful to CWI for giving me the chance to showcase what I’m capable of. The PN program is not only a great stepping stone into nursing but also a great ending place for a lifelong career as an LPN.”
The application period for CWI’s PN program’s Spring 2024 cohort is open through Wednesday, Nov. 1. The program requires a supplemental application process in addition to applying for admission to CWI. Details on the application process and program requirements are available on the Practical Nursing program page.
The program is approved by the Idaho State Board of Nursing, and upon satisfactory completion of the program, NCLEX-PN exam to become an LPN.
For questions about applying to the Practical Nursing program, contact your Student Success Advisor or instructors within the Practical Nursing program.
Speech and Debate Team Secures Victory at Steve Hunt Classic
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Speech and Debate team returned triumphant from the Steve Hunt Classic at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, on Oct. 14 and 15, after securing a tournament championship. This victory was a remarkable repeat performance for the CWI team, despite having only a two-week gap between the last tournament competition to make adjustments and enhance their pieces.
The Steve Hunt Classic at Lewis and Clark College is the inaugural designated tournament of the year, distinguishing itself as a significantly larger competition with a larger number of participating schools and formidable teams. The level of competitiveness at this event is nothing short of intense.
Speech events:
- Novice Impromptu
- First place – Orion Logan
- Junior Impromptu
- Sixth place – Will Guererro
- After Dinner Speaking
- Fourth place – Noelle White
- Novice Informative
- Fourth place – Trace Van Sickle
- Novice Persuade
- Sixth place – Asha Muhingi
- Junior Extemporaneous
- Sixth place – Kennedy Karr
Debate events:
- Junior International Public Debate Association (IPDA) Division Debate
- Quarterfinalist – Noelle White
- Octofinalist winner – Alex Norris
- Junior Speaker Points Division
- Third place – Alex Norris
- Novice IPDA Division Debate
- Quarterfinalist – Josephine Beasley
- Octofinalist – Orion Logan
- Octofinalist winners – Jared Kartel and Kyle Morgan
- Novice Speaker Points Division
- Second place – Orion Logan
- Third place – Asha Muhingi
- Division III Debate Sweepstakes
- First place – College of Western Idaho
Overall Sweepstakes
- Division III
- First place – College of Western Idaho
“I am beyond impressed with this team’s dedication and performance. It’s hard to explain to people who don’t compete in this arena how much work goes into getting ready for a competition, and it’s borderline impossible to explain what is required of the students to earn an award," said CWI Assistant Professor and Director of Forensics, Luke Yeates. "Community colleges are always fighting uphill against teams that have four years to work and hone their craft. For our team to be able to compete and even win against such talented competition speaks to their tenacity, intelligence, and drive. Every single member of this team deserves CWI’s respect.”
For those with questions, or in need of more information about CWI’s Speech and Debate team, contact Luke Yeates at lukeyeates@cwi.edu.
CWI's Biology Club Takes Flight at World Center for Birds of Prey's Fall Event
College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Biology Club recently explored the world of raptors at the World Center for Birds of Prey's popular Fall Flight event on Saturday, Oct. 14. Students, and Biology Instructor, Gary Heller, got the opportunity to witness awe-inspiring birds of prey in action and gain insights into vital conservation efforts.
Fall Flight Days, hosted by the World Center for Birds of Prey, is a popular annual event that celebrates the various species of birds of prey. During the event, these magnificent birds are allowed to take to the skies, captivating the audience with their aerial prowess. It's not just a spectacle, it's an educational experience. The event's hosts provide valuable information about the birds, their history, the challenges they face, and how the World Center for Birds of Prey contributes to their conservation.
The World Center for Birds of Prey is unique in that it doesn't limit its collection to native species and houses birds from various countries, including the impressive Harpy Eagle.
"For biology enthusiasts, like the members of CWI's Biology Club, understanding how human actions impact these birds is vital for devising strategies to protect and conserve them,” said Biology Club President, Elliot Johnson.
“I think the most beneficial thing about this event is the education about these birds,” said Biology Club Secretary, Cheylee Corle. “Those of us in Biology Club do care about all things biology, and knowing how humans have affected these birds can help with knowing how to protect and save them in the future.”
“Idaho is home to so many amazing raptors that are vital to our ecosystem, as well as most ecosystems around the world,” said Biology Club Vice President, Sierra Lee. “By doing outreach events like these, Birds of Prey are able to educate the public about how important the birds are and ways we preserve them whether it is by eliminating the use of pesticides or using lead-free ammunition.
This outing to the Fall Flight event marked a memorable experience for the Biology Club members. The event provided a unique educational experience, fostering a deeper understanding of the magnificent birds of prey and the need to protect them. This outing for the Club was not only about learning but also about building a stronger sense of community among biology enthusiasts. With plans for more events soon, the club is ready to promote education and conservation in the field of biology.
For more information about CWI's Biology Club, contact Gary Heller at garyheller@cwi.edu.
Take Part in the 2023 Trunk-or-Treat
Associated Students of College of Western Idaho’s (ASCWI) annual Trunk-or-Treat is back and better than ever! Join us on Thursday, Oct. 26, at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) east parking lot for a fun and family-friendly evening of trick-or-treating, games, and more.
If spooky fun is what you're looking for, come join us for this year's trunk or treat. This year, we'll have even more decorated cars, more candy, and more fun! Come dressed in your best costume and trick-or-treat from the trunks of “spook-mobiles!” There will be fun games for all ages, music, and tacos from Tin Roof Tacos!
Come share candy and enjoy the Halloween festivities with your CWI community. We encourage everyone to come out and have a good time!
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), east parking lot
Please remember, masks that cover your full face and full face paint are not allowed due to safety precautions. People are also not allowed to carry any weapons or props that resemble any sort of weapon (gun, knives, swords, bows and arrow, etc.). Any item or prop that is brought onto campus will be asked to be put back in your vehicle, even if it is a part of your costume as these are prohibited by CWI.
CWI clubs and organizations along with CWI departments and offices are invited to host a trunk or table. Sign up to secure your spot!
For more information about Trunk-or-Treat, please contact ASCWI at ascwi@cwi.edu.
Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Flamenco Idaho
Join College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Visiting Artist Series in welcoming the performing group, Flamenco Idaho, to the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) on Friday, Oct. 27, for a performance and a workshop.
Flamenco Idaho is a performing group that draws inspiration from classical guitar, contemporary dance and art performance, cultural music, and the art form of Flamenco. Their focus is on performing new and traditional works that represent the artists that comprise the group. The group comes from varying backgrounds, including classical, cultural, and experimental music, numerous dance forms, visual art, and poetry. Many of its members have studied in Spain and strive to maintain the country's traditional background. In their presentation, you will see and hear their musical style and be introduced to a brief history of Flamenco.
Following a performance from Flamenco Idaho, the group will host a workshop that will allow participants to learn basic rhythmic patterns through the handclapping style of palmas and learn some introductory movements that incorporate signals and sequences used for communication with the musicians.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Room 206
CWI’s Visiting Artist Series is made possible through a grant from the Idaho Commission on the Arts, which is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.
The performance and workshop are both free and open to the public. For those with questions or in need of more information, contact Goran Fazil at goranfazil@cwi.edu.
Dual Credit Connections
Are you a Dual Credit College of Western Idaho (CWI) student wanting to find your place on campus? CWI's Beta Sigma Pi Honor Society, a chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), wants to help! The club will host Dual Credit Connections, a series of workshops geared towards helping Dual Credit students feel more integrated on campus and make the most out of their time while at CWI, on Saturday, Nov. 4.
The half-day event invites students and their parents to attend workshops and information sessions on topics, such as resources on campus, scholarships, transfer opportunities, and more. Students will also have a chance to interact with faculty, staff, and fellow Dual Credit students.
The event is free and open to the public. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB)
RSVP to Dual Credit Connections
For those with questions or in need of more information, contact ptk@cwi.edu.
Mental Health Tidbits: Mental Health First Aid Brown Bag Discussions
Discovering the right techniques to manage stress and prioritize mental health is crucial for maintaining your well-being. Whether it's the demands of school, family, work, finances, or relationships, College of Western Idaho (CWI) understands the overwhelming pressures life can throw your way. Our CWI Mental Health First Aid trainers are offering monthly Mental Health First Aid Brown Bag discussions to all campus community members to help broaden their knowledge on mental health topics.
The second discussion planned for the Fall 2023 semester will be led by Program Manager and Certified Strength Coach, Christie Cremer, and Director of Student Support Services, Heather Grayson. They will host a conversation about using your inborn strengths, gifts, and talents to help strengthen yourself and those around you with Mental Health.
Eleven CWI employees are certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructors. MHFA teaches individuals the skills necessary to help someone who may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. This research and evidence based program promotes mental health literacy to help the public identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness.
The course introduces participants to the MHFA Action Plan, ALGEE, a five-step plan that can be used to provide support to someone in distress. Additionally, participants learn the risk factors and warning signs for mental health or substance abuse, engage in experiential activities to build an understanding of the impact of illness on individuals and families and discuss evidence-supported treatment and self-help strategies.
CWI employees interested in attending MHFA training can visit the Fall 2023 MHFA training article to learn more.
For those with questions or interested in learning more about the MHFA Brown Bag Discussions, please contact Christy Babcock at christybabcock@cwi.edu.
