All roads lead to college cooperation

Guest Opinion

Road projects rarely garner smiles, but for the last month we've been grinning ear-to-ear as the critical infrastructure work (under budget!) on the education corridor nears completion. And, we're smiling because of your patience with traffic and delays. Thank you.

It's an exciting time for higher education in North Idaho - not just because of dirt being moved and roads being paved. We're also thrilled because North Idaho College, Lewis-Clark State College, University of Idaho, Boise State University and Idaho State University are already working together to make sure students are able to build their own roads to personal success.

Collaboration is happening right now - every day. We are working together as a team to offer the best possible education and training opportunities to our community. We offer many options for students seeking higher education in North Idaho, from certificates and associate's degrees through graduate studies. Beginning students can start at NIC and then seamlessly transfer to one of our other institutions. Advanced students can move right into a four-year degree or graduate school. Here's a snapshot of just some of things we're able to accomplish together right here in Coeur d'Alene.

We are able to meet the needs of students by pooling our resources and helping them with testing, writing, financial aid, and disability and career services.

University of Idaho's science and education programs work hand-in-hand with North Idaho College to help students save time and money.

Boise State University in Coeur d'Alene has 52 students who started at NIC.

Nearly one third of enrolled LC-CDA students transferred from North Idaho College.

During the past year more than 80 students have enrolled in Idaho State University programs from North Idaho College.

We've had 550 high school and adult residents attend our IdahoGoes College Information Nights the last two years.

Almost 1,000 eighth-graders in the region have learned about post-secondary school options through IdahoGoes/NIC Dual Credit presentations.

Governor Butch Otter supports IdahoGoes, a collaborative effort to promote education in the region. In a recent video, Otter said, "Higher education plays a vital role in helping achieve our goal of improving Idaho's economy and creating more career opportunities for Idahoans.

"The IdahoGoes team and all northern Idaho educators can provide the necessary instruction and training for people to achieve their dreams and for businesses to build the workforce they need."

With that in mind, we want people to know that higher education is serving the community. We're here. We're listening. We're working together.

ERIK ANDERSON, Director of Academic Programs University of Idaho Coeur d'Alene

DR. CYNDIE HAMMOND, Executive Director of Lewis-Clark State College Coeur d'Alene

DR. PRISCILLA BELL, President of North Idaho College

MARK WHEELER, Dean for Extended Learning Boise State University

SHELDON NORD, Vice President for Student Services North Idaho College

DR. LAURA WOODWORTH-NEY, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Idaho State University