College of Western Idaho (CWI) celebrated its first CWI Night [2] of the 2024 season alongside thousands of hockey fans on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at Idaho Central Arena. The Idaho Steelheads went up against Rapid City Rush and, despite a 2-5 loss, everyone including students, staff, faculty, alumni, and fans were cheering for CWI scholarships.

Throughout the game, there were noticeable signs CWI was in the arena — from advertisements on the scoreboard to Steelheads’ mascot, Blue, sporting some CWI swag. Notably, River the Otter, CWI’s new mascot, made its hockey debut on screens, apparel, and more, and was greeted with enthusiasm.

The College’s Enrollment Team was also set up with a booth at the Arena to meet and engage with prospective students — signing several future and current students up for a chance to win the SCORE Big Scholarship and a new CWI hockey jersey.

Claiming the big check was Vandon Foss, a junior from Owyhee High School with plans to attend the CWI Fire Service Technology [3] program, who was randomly chosen as the $1,000 SCORE Big Scholarship recipient for the night. Foss was awarded the scholarship by CWI President Gordon Jones and other dignitaries on the ice during the game’s second intermission. Over 250 group tickets were sold, each yielding $5 for CWI, raising $1,250 for the SCORE Big Scholarship fund. 

Those interested in getting their hands on a CWI- or otter-branded jersey of their own still have the chance! The CWI Bookstore [4] is fully stocked with jerseys, offering a great selection of various sizes.

Don’t miss out on the second CWI Night on Dec. 11 [2] when the Steelheads take on the Tulsa Oilers at Idaho Central Arena.

Explore CWI Nights [2]