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College of Education | Vol. 6 | Spring 2026

Grounded in a history of impact, we continue to grow through collaboration, innovation, and a bold path forward together within the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences.

Table of Contents 4

Welcoming New Faculty and Staff

The Bengal Education Review magazine is an annual publication that highlights the people and programs that define our educational community. As the final edition published under the College of Education, this issue marks an important transition to the School of Education within the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences (CHESS). We hope this publication helps you learn more about our school, celebrate our successes, and stay connected with our community.

Serving Local Schools

Continuing a Legacy of Service

AI in the Age of Learning

Making Classrooms ROAR

The Bengal Education Review magazine is distributed to 13,000 alumni, friends, and donors nationwide.

12 Hear Her Story

10 Highlighting Impact 11 Great Ideas in Teaching

14 Outstanding Achievements 15 A Step into Rural Schools

Magazine Leadership Team Esther Ntuli, Interim Dean

16 A Prestigious Accomplishment

John Curry, Interim Associate Dean

17 Learning in Motion

Emma Wood, Assistant Dean for Educator Preparation

18 Celebrating Excellence

Tabatha Butler, Assistant Vice President of Development

20 Kole-McGuffey Award Recipient

Nicole Doucette, Communications Associate

21 Program Updates 22 College of Education Scholarships

Magazine Contributors A special thanks to the following contributors to this edition of the Bengal Education Review magazine: Cory Bennett, Kiana Blacker, Amanda Eller, Sheldon Harris, Mona Heern, Alyssa St. John, and Laura McRae.

CELEBRATING

125 YEARS

isu.edu/125years 2

23 A New Beginning

MESSAGE FROM THE INTERIM DEAN

igher education is experiencing a significant transformation, and with each change comes an opportunity to reflect on who we are, where we have been, and where we are headed. While new directions and evolving priorities continue to shape our work, our legacy remains an essential foundation for the future we are building. The history, relationships, and accomplishments that have defined the College of Education continue to guide us as we embrace new possibilities and prepare for the next chapter of growth and innovation. This issue of the Bengal Education Review represents a defining moment in our history. It is the final publication of the College of Education as it has been known and marks the transition to the School of Education within the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences (CHESS). Rather than an ending, this is a new beginning that builds upon a strong foundation of excellence in educator preparation, scholarship, and service. As we navigate this institutional transformation, we remain guided by a clear purpose: to act with integrity, make evidence-based decisions, and prioritize student success and community impact. Aligned with Idaho State University’s Bold Path Forward Together, this transition strengthens retention, expands academic and research opportunities, deepens community partnerships, and supports long-

term sustainability. Although change can bring uncertainty, these efforts are designed to enhance collaboration and opportunity while preserving our programs, accreditation, and dedication to students. Within this issue, you will find highlights of the many achievements that define our community. Programs such as the Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher (PaCT) pathway and the Ph.D. in Instructional Design and Technology continue to grow and make an impact. Faculty have secured more than $5.5 million in external funding, supporting initiatives in areas such as STEM teacher preparation and youth mental health. You will also read about innovative efforts exploring artificial intelligence in K-12 education and studentled projects that inspire learning and engagement. These stories represent only a small portion of the meaningful work taking place every day. As we honor our legacy, we do so with pride in the generations of educators, counselors, leaders, and scholars who have shaped our identity. As we look ahead, we are confident that the School of Education within CHESS will continue to build on that legacy—expanding interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing student support, and preparing professionals to meet the challenges of a complex and evolving world. This moment calls for unity and

shared purpose. While transitions can create uncertainty, our strength lies in our collective mission and the relationships that define our community. Together, we can move forward with confidence, ensuring that our work continues to uplift students and communities across Idaho and beyond. I invite you to view this transition not only as change, but as possibility. The legacy of the College of Education will continue through our work, and the future of CHESS will be shaped by our commitment, collaboration, and vision.

Esther Ntuli, Ed.D. Interim Dean College of Education

WELCOMING NEW FACULTY AND STAFF Yi-Chih Chiang, Assistant Professor Yi-Chih Chiang, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of P-12 educational administration at Idaho State University. Her research uses an equity lens to examine educational change, focusing on policy implementation, school improvement and educator professional learning. Her work investigates teacher leaders’ career trajectories in the educator labor market and their roles in fostering organizational improvement and effective policy implementation, as well as how policy implementation is shaped by discourse and stakeholder engagement, with a particular emphasis on addressing systemic inequities in education. Her dissertation explores a human resources analysis of instructional coaches in Michigan, examining their distribution patterns, teaching expertise, and career pathways. Chiang holds a doctorate in K-12 educational administration from Michigan State University.

Sean Dahlin, Associate Professor and Program Director Sean Dahlin, Ph.D., is an associate professor and program director of athletic administration at Idaho State. Before ISU, he was a professor at Central Washington University for six and a half years and at the University of WisconsinParkside for two years. He earned a doctorate in sport management from Ohio State University and has more than 10 years of experience in athletic administration

and coaching at the intercollegiate and high school levels. His research focuses on leadership in sport, including servant and inclusive leadership, organizational culture, positive organizational behavior, and coaching effectiveness, particularly within intercollegiate athletics.

Nicole Doucette, Communications Associate Nicole Doucette is the communications associate for the new College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences and the School of the Arts at Idaho State University. She earned her degree in marketing and management from Idaho State University and began her career in marketing and communications as a career path intern at ISU’s College of Business. She has combined experience working in marketing and management for small businesses, customer service, and higher education. Now, as the communications associate, Nicole leads communication efforts that strengthen engagement and connect students with impactful programs.

Donald Hastings, Assistant Professor Donald S. Hastings, Ed.D., is an assistant professor of educational leadership at Idaho State University, specializing in leadership, trust, motivation, and effective instruction. He teaches graduate-level courses and guides dissertation research, drawing on more than 30 years of experience as a K-12 teacher, principal, and district administrator. He has received the Texas Monthly Top Schools Award

and was named Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District Site Administrator of the Year. He earned a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in applied psychology and education administration.

Ph.D. student at the University of Idaho, she has been recognized with the Distinguished Service Award from both the Idaho Business Education Association and Business Professionals of America.

Camille Long, Clinical Instructor

Weijian Yan, Assistant Professor

Camille Long, MPA-AA, was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho, and attended and graduated from Highland High School. She got a scholarship to run track at Montana State University as a sprinter, where she competed for three years before transferring to Idaho State University to finish her degree and the last two years of athletic eligibility. After graduating, she got a job teaching at Highland High School, where she spent seven years teaching English language arts and four years teaching physical education. She made a career transition in the fall of 2025 to a clinical instructor at Idaho State University. She has also been the head track and field coach at Highland for the last 10 years and involved in coaching track for 18 total years. She is passionate about impacting the lives of others through education and positive coaching relationships!

Dona Orr, Clinical Lecturer Dona Orr, MATC, is a faculty member in the College of Education at Idaho State University, where she teaches in business education, family and consumer sciences, and career and technical education (CTE). With more than 30 years of postsecondary teaching experience, she has been instrumental in shaping CTE education across Idaho. Orr has served as both director of secondary programs and director of professional development and new teacher training at the Idaho Division of Career Technical Education, where she created the state’s noncredit training and mentorship program for new CTE teachers. A published author, frequent presenter, and current

Weijian Yan, Ph.D., is an assistant professor at ISU. She earned a doctorate in learning design and technology from Purdue University, where she also completed a graduate certificate in quantitative research, assessment, and evaluation. Her research focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence and extended reality in language education, online learning, and instructional design. Yan has published in journals such as Virtual Reality, TechTrends, and Education Sciences, and her work has been recognized with awards from the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) and Purdue University. She has extensive teaching experience in instructional design and assessment and has led workshops on extended reality integration and cross-cultural learning.

Nai-Jiin Yang, EMPWRing Grant Coordinator Nai-Jiin (Jiin) Yang, Ph.D., is a school psychologist and researcher committed to improving youth mental health, particularly in rural and underserved communities. She earned her doctorate from Utah State University and completed her predoctoral internship at the American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited Northwest Neurobehavioral Health in Meridian, Idaho. Nai-Jiin currently serves as the EMPWRing grant coordinator at Idaho State University, where she partners with local educational agencies, community organizations, and state leaders to expand training programs, strengthen the school psychology workforce, and advance culturally responsive, evidence-based practices that build lasting systems of support for children and adolescents.

Education Club members and College of Education staff host a STEM night with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Idaho.

SERVING LOCAL SCHOOLS

STUDENT EDUCATION CLUB SUPPORTS LOCAL SCHOOLS WITH SERVICE PROJECTS By Alyssa St. John

he College of Education Office of Field Experience with the student Education Club hosted a STEM Day with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Idaho at Syringa Elementary School in Pocatello. Learners were introduced to engineering concepts while club members enjoyed fun, hands-on activities. Members of the ISU club prepared themselves for this event by taking home STEM activities and mastering them. They then presented them to the other club members and Interim Dean Esther Ntuli. “Before we could teach the kids how to do any of the activities, we needed to teach ourselves,” said Emily Willoughby, a club member. “We talked about what activities we did, what problems we ran into, and what questions we could ask the kids based on that activity.” This kind of community outreach is at the heart of the Education Club. Not only

does it help prepare them to be teachers in practical ways, but it helps them connect with the community on a deeper, more personal level. The event proved to be beneficial for Pocatello learners and ISU students alike. “I got to remember how much I love working with kids and how excited they get when they learn something new,” said McKenzie Leckie, a member of the club. “The excitement in their faces was undeniable.” “One of the kids kept having me come back because he wanted to show off the helicopter toothbrush he was making,” said Silas Smith, president of the Education Club. “It was very sweet and heartwarming, and showed how much kids just want to be seen and given quality time and attention. As future educators, it really should spark this inner desire to invest more Club President Silas Smith helps Boys and Girls Club member with a 3D pen.

because these kids want to be invested in.” The Education Club was organized to provide leadership, networking, and community opportunities to students who are interested in becoming future educators. The Office of Field Experience and the Education Club have plans to continue hosting more events like this one, ensuring that they are connected to the community and making a difference in the lives of learners all across Pocatello.

CONTINUING A LEGACY OF SERVICE ALUMNI BONNIE AND ALAN FRANTZ ESTABLISH SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT By Nicole Doucette

ith deep Bengal roots and a lifelong commitment to education and service, ISU alumni Bonnie and Alan Frantz have established a new scholarship endowment at Idaho State University, continuing their legacy of giving back to the campus where they first met. Bonnie Frantz joined ISU in 1987 as assistant director of the Pond Student Union. Over her 24-year career, she guided facility and budget management, advised ASISU, and played a key role in campus expansions, including the Bennion Student Union in Idaho Falls, the Student Activities annex and the Student Union portion of the Rendezvous Building. She also launched programs such as the ISU Reading Project and Human Rights Celebration, and in 2011 Left to right: Bonnie and Alan Frantz.

received the City of Pocatello’s Outstanding Service in Human Relations Award. Alan Frantz, a third-generation Bengal, paused his studies when he was a student at Idaho State to serve in the U.S. Army as a woodwind specialist in Germany. He returned to ISU in 1987 after earning a master’s degree in German from Indiana University and teaching high school. He later completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from the University of Denver and served in leadership roles at ISU, including assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, director of teacher education, university registrar, Faculty Senate chair, and assistant vice president for academic affairs. He retired in 2020 and remains active in supporting the university.

Bonnie and Alan met when Bonnie chaired the ASISU Student Organization Committee and Alan served as faculty representative, laying the foundation for a partnership that has since shaped their careers, their service to students, and now their scholarship endowment. “When we were college students, we were the beneficiaries of scholarship funds, so we know how important they are for students to persevere,” Alan said. “We spent most of our careers working with students and are now retired—this is a means to continue our involvement with students.” The scholarship will support students in the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences who are involved in student government or the University Honors Program, with preference for students majoring in art or foreign language. The criteria reflect Bonnie and Alan’s own academic backgrounds and careers at ISU, which combined education, the arts, languages, and student engagement.

To contribute to the Bonnie and Alan Frantz Scholarship, visit isu.edu/give. Select “give now,” then “other fund,” and input “Bonnie and Alan Frantz Scholarship” into the designated field.

AI IN THE AGE OF LEARNING K-12 STUDENTS INTRODUCED TO AI AND CODING By Alyssa St. John

-12 students across southern Idaho explored the world of artificial intelligence in December. Faculty from the College of Education brought Code.org’s Hour of AI to local classrooms in partnership with the Idaho STEM Action Center. The Hour of AI, formerly known as Hour of Code, is part of Computer Science Education Week. This yearly event is designed to raise awareness of educational and career opportunities in computer science through accessible, hands-on activities. Wendy Ruchti, Ph.D., associate professor of STEM and science

education, worked with third graders at Ellis, Chubbuck, and Tendoy Elementary schools in the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Ruchti was able to support classrooms by bringing in Micro:Bits purchased through a Dean’s Excellence Grant. Micro:Bits are pocketsized, programmable computers designed to teach coding and physical computing. “The local district really embraced the Hour of Code/AI,” Ruchti said. “Some classes are experts and some are just beginning.” Ruchti also introduced students to AI activities while helping preservice teachers learn coding skills they can use in future classrooms.

Kaywin Cottle, clinical instructor, brought the Hour of AI to fifth graders at Heyburn Elementary School in the Minidoka School District, where students explored AI concepts through Lego-based activities. “By participating, I hope to demystify AI for students and show them that these concepts are accessible and relevant to their futures,” Cottle said. Teachers and students alike responded with enthusiasm and curiosity while educators explored ways to teach the responsible use of AI in K-12 classrooms.

PROFESSOR LAUNCHES BLOG FOCUSED ON THE HUMAN IMPACT OF AI By Nicole Doucette

s artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, Idaho State University professor Rob Lion is focusing on how AI changes human behavior, workplace systems, and organizational success. Lion, a professor at Idaho State University, launched a weekly blog on Substack called “The Friction Prophet.” With a background focused on human behavior and organizational success, Lion’s inspiration for the blog is rooted in 8 his academic work and

consulting experience through his firm, which he co-founded with his wife, Angie. Their work focuses on helping organizations succeed with an understanding of the variability in human behavior. “The blog focuses on AI-human integration, examining how people interact with AI on a psychological level,” Lion said. Some topics include higher education’s role in preparing students for AI-integrated work, psychological safety in AI adoption, and the gap between technical deployment and human integration.

“AI is going to be the most significant technological shift of our time,” Lion said. “The organizations succeeding aren’t the ones deploying fastest. They’re the ones designing for human integration deliberately.” Looking ahead, Lion wants to continue examining the human side of AI integration to provide people with useful frameworks to tackle leadership and success obstacles.

MAKING CLASSROOMS ROAR

CAMPAIGN GIFTS BENGAL PRIDE TO 300 EDUCATORS By Nicole Doucette

olorful pennants, striking posters, Benny the Bengal, and a whole lot of school spirit— the annual Make Your Classroom ROAR campaign turned P-12 classrooms into vibrant Bengal wonderlands for 300 educators across the state. In collaboration with the ISU Alumni Association, Graduate School, College of Arts and Letters, and College of Technology, the initiative invited educators across Idaho to sign up for a complimentary gift bag filled with ISU swag to decorate their classrooms or office spaces. This year’s packages featured items generously donated by partner colleges and units, alongside College of Education swag, including stickers, pins, window clings, booklets, pens, posters, pennants, shirts, and a stuffed Benny the Bengal.

“For students in P-12 classrooms, the colleges and universities they come to know are often the ones they see every day,” said Interim Dean Esther Ntuli. “When ISU banners hang on classroom walls, when Benny the Bengal sits on a shelf, and when Bengal pride becomes part of the learning environment, we are planting seeds of possibility.” With the support of the College of Education’s Office of Field Experience, principals helped spread the word to faculty and staff, prompting an enthusiastic response for a race to fill an entry. All 300 spots were claimed in approximately four hours, proving the success and popularity of the campaign. Representatives from Idaho State and its satellite campuses handdelivered gift bags to educators in the Pocatello, Chubbuck, Twin Falls, Buhl, Xavier Charter,

Campaign volunteers hand out gift bags to teachers at Pocatello High School.

Blackfoot, Idaho Falls, and American Falls school districts, strengthening connections between the University and local schools with in-person meetand-greets. The Pocatello/ Chubbuck area had the most participants, with a total of 151, followed by Twin Falls with 74. Pocatello High School emerged as the school with the highest level of engagement, with 23 educators participating. “Pocatello High School’s connection with ISU runs deep,” said Principal Heidi Graham. “Several of our educators began their journey at ISU, and being able to showcase that pride in their classrooms reminds students that great teaching starts with great teachers.” Hawthorne Middle School followed closely behind with 22 participating educators. “Thanks, ISU, and the College of Education, for supporting our teachers, staff and most of all our middle school learners,” said Hawthorne Middle School Principal Heidi Kessler. Through continued collaboration across ISU, the College of Education plans to continue growing the Make Your Classroom ROAR campaign and hopes to partner with other colleges and units across Idaho State University.

School administrators, retired faculty and College of Education faculty and staff do a meet and greet to highlight the educational leadership program’s current initiatives and discuss the vision for continued growth.

HIGHLIGHTING IMPACT

MEET AND GREET BRINGS TOGETHER RETIRED FACULTY, LOCAL SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS, AND NEW PROGRAM FACULTY By Mona Heern

he College of Education leadership team hosted a “Partnering for Progress: Educational Administration Program Meet and Greet” that brought together retired faculty, local school administrators, and new program faculty. The event highlighted the program’s legacy, its current initiatives, and its vision for continued growth. Emeritus professor Mark Neill and retired professor Patti Mortensen were recognized for their contributions to program excellence and their enduring partnerships across Idaho State University’s service regions 4, 5, and 6. In their remarks, they reflected on the program’s successes, emphasized the importance of cultivating strong regional partnership 10 collaborations, and offered

guidance to incoming faculty. “For me, the most meaningful part was simply having the chance to sit down with people— emeritus faculty, administrators, and colleagues—and hear their perspectives,” said Donald Hastings, new assistant professor in the Department of School Psychology and Educational Leadership. “I loved learning about the strong history of the region and realizing how connected we really are in this work. It felt less like an event and more like a gathering of people who genuinely want to lift each other up.” Yi-Chih Chiang, assistant professor, said, “As a new faculty in the department, meeting emeritus faculty and local administrators and listening to their conversation helped me learn more about the program’s

history and contributions to the local community.” Local administrators also shared perspectives from the field. Director of Elementary Education at Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25, A. J. Watson, commended the program for consistently producing highly qualified candidates, affirming the impact of rigorous preparation established by retired faculty and now entrusted to the new faculty cohort. The agenda included updates on enrollment trends, program growth, and accreditation status, alongside discussions of challenges in school leadership and desired competencies for graduates. These conversations affirmed the program’s commitment to aligning curriculum with the evolving needs of schools.

In appreciation of the gathering, Director of Clinical Experiences and a graduate of the educational administration program Mona Heern remarked, “These school leaders serve as key thought partners for the College of Education. Through our ongoing partnership efforts, each of these educators has been actively engaged in conversations that shape our teacher and administrator preparation programs, while keeping us connected to the needs of schools at the grassroots level.” The educational administration faculty will continue outreach across all service regions to strengthen existing partnerships, develop new collaborations, and incorporate stakeholder feedback into program improvement and accreditation processes.

GREAT IDEAS IN TEACHING

CONFERENCE BRINGS TOGETHER ISU TEACHING COMMUNITY By Nicole Doucette

osted by the College of Education, the Center for Learning and Instructional Excellence, and the Graduate School, the Great Ideas in Teaching Mini Conference brought faculty, staff, and graduate students together to share innovative teaching practices in higher education. The conference featured short interactive sessions focused on creative classroom strategies, instructional research, and emerging educational tools. Keynote speaker Liza Long, academic technology program manager for the Idaho State Board of Education, presented “Cyborgs, Centaurs, and Resistors: Teaching and Learning in the Age of Generative AI Intelligence,” a session examining how generative AI is reshaping teaching and learning in higher education. Long discussed the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the classroom, including assessment design, academic integrity, and the development of human-centered skills. Long previously served as an associate professor at the College of Western Idaho and is currently pursuing a doctorate in English at Idaho State University, where her research focuses on artificial intelligence and writing instruction.

Left: Keynote speaker Liza Long visits with conference participants. Right: Education faculty Allison Roxburgh (left) and Kaywin Cottle (right) present their research.

HEAR HER STORY

CELEBRATING GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORTS By Kiana Blacker

uring February, the College of Education celebrated National Girls and Women in Sports Day by highlighting four women who have shaped girls’ and women’s sports in the Pocatello community. The celebration featured a new podcast, “Hear Her Story,” and recognition awards honoring their contributions. Proclaimed by Congress since 1987, National Girls and Women in Sports Day is celebrated annually during the first week

of February to recognize the achievements and influence of women in sports. “Hear Her Story” was created and hosted by graduate students Laney Forsmann and Zoie Armstrong, who wanted to give local women a platform to share their experiences. Forsmann led the project and conducted the interviews, while Armstrong filmed and edited the video components. “The vision behind the podcast was to bring light to the work of local females in sport,” Forsmann explained. “I wanted to give them an area in which they can share their successes, joys, and wins.”

WATCH THE PODCAST

The podcast features stories from Anne Butler, Camille Long, Chelsey Stucki, and Tonya Wilkes, highlighting their impact on women’s sports in the Pocatello community. Butler, Long, and Wilkes each received certificates of recognition for their dedication to advancing women in sport. Chelsey Stucki received this year’s Sandra Dee Noakes Trailblazer Award, which honors a woman affiliated with Idaho State University who demonstrates leadership and mentorship for women

Top to bottom: Tonya Wilkes; Anne Butler; Camille Long receive certificates of recognition. Chelsey Stucki receives the Sandra Dee Noakes Trailblazer Award during half time at ISU women’s basketball.

in sports. Stucki is an adjunct professor at ISU, the director of Hoops Academy, a nonprofit youth basketball organization, and the varsity assistant girls basketball coach at Highland High School. As a teacher, coach, wife, and mother to four, Stucki champions opportunities for female athletes and advocates for equal access in sports. “None of these women waited around for opportunities to be given to them,” Armstrong said. “They earned everything they accomplished, and they did it with class.” Through “Hear Her Story,” Forsmann and Armstrong hope listeners gain a deeper appreciation for these women and their careers. By sharing their experiences, the podcast aims to inspire others to support and advance women’s sports.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS 2026 OUTSTANDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Grace Tigue Grace Tigue is an exceptional educator whose academic excellence, professionalism, and commitment to student success exemplify Idaho State University’s mission. Graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a minor in history, Tigue earned a 3.95 GPA and completed all state-required teaching certification exams. She graduated in December 2025 with endorsements in all subjects K-8 and middle school history. Tigue’s clinical preparation and classroom impact are outstanding. She completed extensive fieldwork across multiple grade levels, including service as an America Reads tutor supporting kindergarten literacy at a Title I school, before completing a twelve-week student teaching internship at Sawtooth Elementary School. Her performance was so exemplary that she was immediately hired as a firstgrade teacher upon completion of her internship. Praised by supervisors for her preparedness, classroom management, and calm, compassionate approach, Tigue brings creativity, warmth, and high standards to every learning environment. She is also a recipient of multiple scholarships and a dedicated student-athlete.

FALL 2025 OUTSTANDING COOPERATING TEACHER AWARD Kelsey Bischoff Kelsey Bischoff, a science teacher at Skyline High School, received the Fall 2025 Outstanding Cooperating Teacher Award from the College of Education. The award honors an outstanding cooperating teacher at the conclusion of each semester, based on nominations submitted by student teaching candidates. Bischoff was nominated for the award by Drew Chapman, a College of Education student. The nomination carried special significance as Chapman was once a student in Bischoff’s high school science classroom. Returning years later as a student teaching candidate, Chapman described the experience as a “full-circle moment.” This time, she learned alongside Bischoff as a mentor who helped guide her development into a science teacher.

SPRING 2026 OUTSTANDING COOPERATING TEACHER AWARD Rachel Guymon Rachel Guymon, a fourth-grade teacher at Kershaw Intermediate School in the Sugar-Salem School District, received the Spring 2026 Outstanding Cooperating Teacher Award from the College of Education. Guymon was nominated by her student teacher, Kylie Clinger, who described her as a phenomenal, thoughtful, and passionate educator who truly cares about her students and served as an exceptional mentor teacher.

Left: Students have a discussion with district leadership and Legislative District 27 State Representative Doug Pickett. Right: Students and faculty visit the City of Rocks National Reserve.

A STEP INTO RURAL SCHOOLS TRAIL EXPERIENCE LIGHTS THE PATH FOR RURAL TEACHING CAREERS By Nicole Doucette

ix students stepped off the beaten path and into Idaho’s rural classrooms through the Teaching in Rural Areas Immersion Learning (TRAIL) Experience. Funded by a Dean’s Excellence Grant and led by ISU Teaching and Educational Studies faculty Amanda Eller and Suzanne Beasterfield, TRAIL provides teacher candidates with a weeklong immersion in a ruralremote school and community, giving students firsthand experience with teaching and living in those settings. During the 2025 school year, ISU students Mya Ariwite, McKenzie Garcia, Hawley Hennen, Kailey Marler, Rindy Sutherland, and Paul Sweeney traveled to the Cassia County School District in Oakley, Idaho, where they spent a week in elementary and secondary education classrooms.

Oakley, a historic town of roughly 800 residents, offered students a glimpse into the opportunities and challenges unique to rural education.

local attractions and community life. On the final day, the group visited the City of Rocks National Reserve to explore the area’s natural landscape.

“Sometimes rural schools aren’t on students’ radar, and they might have a naive view of what it means to be a rural school teacher,” Beasterfield said. “It is important that we give students a more nuanced picture of the many amazing possibilities that are part of teaching in a rural school.”

“TRAIL gave me a strong insight into the benefits of teaching in a small town,” Sweeney said. “TRAIL showed me a very positive side of these schools.”

Each day after school, students reflected on their experiences, participated in discussions, and connected with educational leaders, including the Cassia County School District superintendent, local principals, and Legislative District 27 State Representative Doug Pickett, chair of the House Education Committee. TRAIL also introduced students to

Participants described the experience as both inspiring and transformative, leaving with a stronger understanding of rural communities and education. “This experience helped me realize what I want from a school I teach at,” said Sutherland. Filling teaching positions in rural and remote communities remains an ongoing challenge, and programs like TRAIL help future educators gain meaningful insight into rural education.

Left to right: Theresea Huff; Catherine Leavitt; Beth Willoughby.

A PRESTIGIOUS ACCOMPLISHMENT THREE DOCTORAL STUDENTS EARN INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIPS IN INSTRUCTIONAL DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

By Nicole Doucette

hree Idaho State University doctoral students earned recognition through the highly competitive Addie Kinsinger Leadership Development Internship Program with the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), highlighting the university’s growing impact in instructional design and technology. Doctoral students Catherine Leavitt and Theresa Huff were selected for the internationally recognized program as part of the 2024-25 cohort. More recently, instructional design and technology doctoral student Beth Willoughby was selected for the 2025-26 class. AECT is a leading academic organization focused on instructional design and the improvement of learning. The internship program identifies emerging leaders and 16 provides mentorship,

collaborative research opportunities, and professional development experiences. During their internship, Leavitt and Huff worked on projects aimed at improving access and representation for AECT’s international community and enhancing professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers. “Working with seven other interns was rewarding,” Huff said. “Each one of us has a completely different background. It was enriching to work with others who have different viewpoints.” Both Leavitt and Huff said the shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired them to pursue advanced studies in instructional design and technology. “When schools closed due to COVID-19, I recognized the need for additional education to support my ideas on how online and in-person education could be

effectively implemented for K-12 students,” Leavitt said. Willoughby joins the next cohort with more than 25 years of experience as a school librarian in Dunellen, New Jersey. She also helped develop New Jersey’s upcoming information literacy standards, expected to be released in 2027. As part of her internship, Willoughby and her cohort are researching practitioner engagement within AECT to help the organization better recruit, support, and retain members. “Idaho State gave me the confidence to realize that I am qualified to be an intern,” Willoughby said. “I was honored to represent Idaho State University and felt it showed that you can be an intern at any age and with any ability.”

LEARNING IN MOTION

PROFESSOR, STUDENTS, AND CAMPUS RECREATION LAUNCH NEW EXERCISE FACILITIES ON CAMPUS By Nicole Doucette

hanks to a $160,000 grant through the Dean’s Excellence Fund, the College of Education, in collaboration with ISU Campus Recreation, finalized an exciting project that brought new recreational facilities to campus. The project included brand-new pickleball courts and a fleet of exercise bikes at Reed Gym. It began three years ago in response to a nationwide craze of pickleball with no courts dedicated to the public in Pocatello at the time. Led by Caroline “Smitty” Faure, professor at the College of Education, the initiative uniquely engaged her sports management class in conducting a real-life feasibility study to guide the development and implementation of these facilities. The feasibility study began with students researching the growing interest and need for pickleball across the nation and in Southeast Idaho. From there, the project evolved into

identifying potential locations on campus, considering factors such as cost, space dimensions, surface type, and overall suitability for long-term recreational use. Students compiled their findings into a formal proposal, which was then presented to leaders in ISU Campus Recreation, Facilities, and Operations. “I’m big on experiential learning with my students,” said Faure. “They took great interest in what they were doing and knew that their work was going to leave a lasting legacy.” The final decision for the courts was to redesign the already existing tennis courts outside of Reed Gym to include portable nets that slide into place, turning them into pickleball courts and making it a quick and easy switch between the two sports. Since the project did not require building entirely new courts, leftover funds from the grant became available. Faure proposed using those remaining funds

Left: Pickleball court outside Reed Gym. Right: ROAR Cycle exercise room.

to launch a second initiative. Reed Gym’s spinning room was renovated by replacing its outdated equipment, which was over 25 years old, with new exercise bikes and upgraded room features. The space was named ROAR Cycle. Lowell Richards, associate vice president for student affairs, who oversees Campus Recreation, played a key role in helping Faure and her students bring the project to fruition. “We’ve seen more activity in that spin room than we’ve had in years. The new renovations have generated more enthusiasm about spinning again on campus.” “For me, being a part of these projects was quite special,” said Sabrina Northrup, a previous student involved in the project. “They have stretched my abilities, and it was challenging, yet I gained so many practical skills and experiences. ISU has given me many opportunities and allowed me to grow as a professional. I hope that my contributions are a way to say thank you and give something back.”

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE T

he annual Celebrating Excellence award ceremony was held at the ICCU Bengal Alumni Center on April 23, 2026. Awardees were recognized for their achievements in their designated categories below.

Mahlet Asfaw | Staff Excellence

Kolby Cordingley | Faculty Excellence

Mahlet Asfaw was an administrative assistant for the Office of Field Experience and the Kent Center for Student Success. With a background in customer service and insurance management, she specialized in administrative coordination and effective communication and provided support to students, staff and partners with professionalism and efficiency. Her experience has enabled her to develop strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a service-oriented approach, contributing to a welcoming and well-managed academic environment.

Kolby Cordingley is a professor of practice at Idaho State University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s degree in physical education with an emphasis in athletic administration. Cordingley has taught at ISU for the last 24 years and has taught a wide variety of courses. While teaching at ISU, he also coached wrestling for more than 20 years, including 12 years as the head coach at Highland High School, where he was twice named the 5A Idaho Coach of the Year and earned seven 5th/6th District Coach of the year awards.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in management from Unity University and an associate’s degree in insurance from the Ethiopian Institute of Banking and Insurance. Outside of work, she enjoys roasting coffee and preparing traditional Ethiopian foods for her family.

His proudest accomplishment while serving as the head coach of Highland was receiving nine 5A State Academic championships, which is awarded to the team with the highest cumulative GPA. Cordingley believes that his greatest achievements in his coaching and teaching career have been creating meaningful relationships where athletes and students feel safe and valued.

Rachelle Gilbert | Alumni Teaching Excellence

Ashley Schaffner | Alumni Leadership Excellence

After completing her bachelor’s degree in secondary education at ISU, Rachelle Gilbert has taught English classes for 18 years at Marsh Valley High School, where she also serves as both the high school’s and district’s librarian. During her time, she has conceptualized a book study group for teachers at her school to collaborate and improve teaching pedagogy.

Ashley Schaffner is a proud Idaho State University alumna, graduating in 2012 with an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education degree. Over the past 14 years, she has built a career defined by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to advancing STEM education across Idaho.

She supports students in a wide range of roles, including mentoring for senior projects, advising the student council, teaching research and online literacy, book recommendations, IDLA site coordination, and as the former director of her school’s German exchange through the Goethe Institute for ten years. In addition to teaching, she coached for 15 years to build the Marsh Valley Girls Soccer team into a consistent state contender. Education has been the unexpected calling of her life.

Ashley began her career as an elementary educator, where she served as a mentor teacher, team lead, and computer science educator, developing curriculum to introduce young learners to coding and technology. She now serves as a regional hub coordinator for the Idaho STEM Ecosystem, leading efforts to connect schools, industry, and community partners to expand STEM opportunities across southeastern Idaho.

Justin Dayley is the director of the Outdoor Adventure Center at Idaho State University, where he leads outdoor recreation programming and student leadership development. His work includes overseeing adventure trips, instructional programs, risk management practices, and experiential learning opportunities for students. With a background in outdoor education and backcountry leadership, he is committed to helping participants build skills, resilience, and confidence through meaningful experiences in the outdoors. He especially values programs that create connection, personal growth, and access to adventure for new participants.

Justin Dayley | Bengal Partner 19

SCOTT SNELL NAMED 2026 KOLEMCGUFFEY AWARD RECIPIENT By Kiana Blacker

cott Snell, Ed.D., M.S.N., R.N., C.N.E., was selected as the recipient of the 2026 KoleMcGuffey Award for Excellence in Educational Research. This prestigious award is given to a graduate student whose research has made an impactful contribution to the field of education. “Receiving the Kole-McGuffey Award is incredibly meaningful to me, both personally and professionally,” Snell said. “Personally, it represents the culmination of years of growth, persistence, and a willingness to step outside of my comfort zone. Earning my doctorate was a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, but having the work itself recognized at this level makes it even more meaningful.” Snell is a certified nurse educator and emerging scholar with over 19 years of experience in higher

education. He recently earned his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Idaho State University, where he also served as a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of School Psychology and Educational Leadership. During his time at ISU, he contributed to graduate education and scholarly work, including serving as an editorial contributor for New Directions for Community Colleges, supporting manuscript review and publication processes. Snell’s professional background is rooted in academic nursing, where he previously served as an associate professor and registered nursing program manager at the College of Southern Idaho. His work has focused on curriculum development, student learning and the integration of high-fidelity simulation in nursing education. He currently serves as simulation clinical lab supervisor at Coastal Alabama Community College and as adjunct faculty in the directentry Master of Science in Nursing

Left: Scott Snell presenting his research at the College of Education’s Celebrating Excellence event. Right: Interim Dean Esther Ntuli; Scott Snell; Professor Rick Wagoner.

program at the University of West Florida, where he teaches simulation-based and graduatelevel courses. His research centers on leadership development and role transition in higher education, with a particular focus on academic nurse administrators. His dissertation explored the lived experiences of nurse faculty transitioning into administrative roles, highlighting the importance of mentorship, leadership preparation, and institutional support in shaping successful transitions. His work aims to inform leadership development practices and strengthen administrative pathways within higher education. “At its core, this study offers reassurance to current and aspiring academic nurse administrators who may feel uncertain or isolated,” Snell explained. “It highlights that their experiences are shared and that peer support, mentorship and collaboration can play a critical role in their success.”

PROGRAM UPDATES

PARA TO CERTIFIED TEACHER (PaCT)

daho State University’s Paraprofessional to Certified Teacher (PaCT) scholarship pathway is entering its fifth year of helping paraprofessionals become certified teachers through ISU’s Online Teacher Education Program. Launched in 2022 with Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25, PaCT has expanded to 24 school districts across eastern Idaho, including 18 rural districts. The program provides scholarship support for paraprofessionals pursuing degrees in elementary or special education, helping address teacher shortages through a “grow-your-own” approach. By investing in educators already serving local schools, PaCT strengthens the teacher workforce and supports student success in communities across the region.

PROJECT EMPWRing GRANT

unded through a $4.5 million U.S. Department of Education grant, ISU’s Project EMPWRing has added a state-of-the-art 270° PRISM simulation lab to help address Idaho’s shortage of school psychologists. The lab allows students to engage in realistic school-based scenarios, interact with touch-screen technology, and receive immediate feedback. “We’ll have realistic scenes in a school classroom,” said Bocanegra. “So students can actually see it in real time, and they can actually practice and we can give them feedback.” With touchpoints leading to video loops and a camera recording the action, students will be able to interact with the scene and then watch themselves afterward to see exactly how they responded to the simulated situations.

ROBERT NOYCE STEM TEACHER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

transformation is taking place in STEM education at ISU. The ISU Noyce STEM Teacher Program recently celebrated its first graduates, who are redefining what it means to lead in STEM classrooms.

For mathematics scholar Zoe Tassava, the program was life-changing. Once convinced she wasn’t “smart enough” for a mathematics degree, she found the support of Noyce mentors helped her overcome self-doubt. “If you want to be an amazing, stellar, out-of-this-world STEM teacher, Noyce will give you the confidence to attain that goal,” she said. Physics scholar Elena Goldflower found a supportive community that helped her grow as an educator. “Being surrounded by other people who also share the same passion for teaching and STEM allowed me to really grow into being an educator,” she said. Chemistry scholar Eliana CraigSmith said Noyce provided a strong bridge into the classroom, leaving her better prepared for student teaching and beyond. Project co-leads Cory Bennett, Ph.D., Wendy Ruchti, Ph.D., and Elizabeth Metts, Ph.D., said the graduates demonstrate the program’s success and future impact. “They are unlike any graduates we have seen before,” Bennett said.

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS

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Allen Andersen Family Anika Marie Hoybjerg Anna Robinson-Clark Babe Caccia Barbara and Roger Michener Betty L. and Roy E. Simonds Bill Watkins Billie McNabb Miller and Margaret F. Miller Bonnie and Alan Frantz Brian and Julie Armes Byron M. Skaug Carl Durfee Catherine & Amy Rider Children’s Literacy Foundation Clark Christiansen Clark-Seddon Colleen and William Neel College of Education Intern Della and Reuben Ward Dianne W. Holmes Distinguished Teacher Donald L. and Helen Doering Nielson Dr. Robert W. (Bob) and Mrs. LaVoy V. Riley Myers Dr. T.C. and Cheryl E. Mattocks Edna Dursteler Ethel E. Redfield Evelyn Robinson FMC Math/Science Education Frances E. Satterwhite Francie Wilson Stephens Frank. B. and Phyllis H. Wilson Gates Minority and International Student Gillette Family Gordon and Marjean Waford Family Idaho Falls Retired Teachers James and Wendy Ruchti Jeannette Rowe Jerry J. and Elner C. Bellon Joe and Pauline Kent John Falcone John Gorman John L. Bobell, Jr. Judy B. Sorensen June M. Wilson and Carol M. Rounds Kelly Rae and Pamela Haberman

Lamont Jones Lorraine Peterson Green Wight Margaret S. Klingemann Margaret Somsen Marion A. Toombs Mary Elizabeth “Zibby” Pyle Leeper Nannette and Gail Siemen Nathan R. and Michelle Schroeder National Girls and Women in Sports Day Nisson Family Norma Barnes Paula Rankin Pete and Ronda Black Peter C. and Nancy J. Kole Connie Smith Bowen Peter C. Kole - Donald J. Sampson Peter C. Kole - Dr. Deborah Hedeen Peter C. Kole - Pauline S. Thiros Peter C. Kole - Richard L. Bowen Peter C. Kole – Jay G. Jensen Peter Kole and Eleanor Loscalzo Phillip L. Luckey and Michael E. Nesbitt Richard L. and Donna J. Sagness Robert W. Sherman Roger and Nancy J. Wheeler Ron and Patty Bolinger Family Ruth Robinson Chandler Sharon K. Ostermeier Southeast Idaho Retired Educators Ted Earl Terry L. and Rita D. Haggardt Veeva D. Whitworth Virginia Brinegar W. James and Dr. Karen Johnston Wyman-Skaggs Home Economics Zobell-Albion

A NEW BEGINNING

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES, EDUCATION, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

daho State University’s College of Education and College of Arts and Letters are joining together to become the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences (CHESS), creating new opportunities for collaboration across disciplines that share a commitment to learning, community engagement, and student success. We will build on the strengths of both colleges to enhance student learning and continue our longstanding commitment to preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions in their fields and communities.

COLLEGE LEADERSHIP INTERIM DEAN - KATHERINE REEDY Katherine Reedy is a respected professor of anthropology whose scholarly work focuses heavily on environmental anthropology, human ecology, and the intersection of human societies and marine environments. Her extensive research, particularly regarding fisheries livelihoods and indigenous resource management, demonstrates a commitment to applied, impactful social science. She brings a strong record of academic leadership, grant management, and interdisciplinary collaboration that makes her exceptionally wellsuited to guide the college in its inaugural year.

ASSOCIATE DEAN - ESTHER NTULI Esther Ntuli is a distinguished professor in the Department of Teaching and Educational Studies. Her scholarship and research center on educational technology, instructional design, and early childhood education. With a proven track record of securing significant grant funding and advancing innovative pedagogical approaches, Ntuli has consistently demonstrated her dedication to preparing the next generation of educators. Her forward-thinking approach, her scholarly acumen, her significant tenure in previous academic leadership positions, and her strong sense of integrity will be an incredible asset to the School of Education and the college more broadly.

ASSOCIATE DEAN - JESSICA WINSTON Jessica Winston is an accomplished professor of English and a highly regarded scholar of Renaissance English literature. Her research uniquely explores the intersections of literature, law, and politics in the sixteenth century, with significant contributions to the study of Shakespeare and early English drama. Her deep commitment to the humanities, paired with her extensive experience in faculty leadership and curriculum development, will serve the college and the School of Humanities incredibly well.

College of Education 921 S. 8th Ave., Stop 8059 Pocatello, ID 83209-8059

CELEBRATING 125 YEARS