College of Western Idaho

The College of Western Idaho started with 1,000 students in January of 2009 and has grown to serve over 30,000 students this past year. This series of stories tells the past, present and future through the voices of those who started the college and those who work for and benefit from it today. The series includes a glance at the numbers: the demographics, the programs, the classes, the costs and the timeline.

The inception of the College of Western Idaho: A community-driven project

It took a two-thirds referendum approval, seed money from the governor, an advocacy campaign and local grants to launch what today serves 30,000 students.

Balancing expansion and the evolution of higher education

One of the College of Western Idaho's main goals is to connect students seeking employment with businesses in need of workers. 

Nichelle Boyce, a single parent in surgical technology

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized […]

Jory Skidmore, a 35-year-old welding student

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized […]

Amani and Allan Kindarara, GED students in adult education

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized […]

Audrie Reyes, a female welding student

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized […]

Alex Todd, an engineering student who intends to transfer

CWI: The students From high school dual-credit students to single parents searching for a new career, the College of Western Idaho serves 30,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Some look to save on tuition, while others pursue vocational training or come to learn English and build community. Here are the stories of six students who utilized […]