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College of Idaho

Every student carries a story with them. Together, we have the power to change that story – not just for them, but for all of Idaho.

The College of Idaho's ‘Changing the Story’ campaign is a shared calling to expand our impact in service to students and the State of Idaho. Our students arrive with dreams that extend far beyond what they thought possible. They come from small towns and big cities, from families who haven't experienced college and those with generations of college traditions. They bring curiosity, determination, and the drive to create something meaningful with their lives. They don't just want to learn - they want to lead, innovate, compete, and make a difference in the world around them. That's why we are embarking on The College of Idaho's most ambitious fundraising campaign to date.

"Changing the Story" isn't just about raising funds – it's about amplifying the narrative of what's possible for students and their futures, right here in Idaho.

Every scholarship creates a pathway for a student. Every research partnership connects classroom learning to real-world solutions for Idaho businesses. Every graduate who chooses to build their career here becomes a catalyst for growth and development in our communities. When we invest in education, we're creating a cycle of opportunity that will benefit generations to come.

Join us in pursuing our highest goal yet.

Changing the Story

The College of Idaho’s Changing the Story campaign is rallying alumni, friends, and partners to strengthen student support, elevate academic excellence, and invest in campus spaces that inspire success. This is more than a fundraising effort, it’s a movement to ensure every student’s story is filled with possibility. 

Join Our Campaign: We're Changing the Story Together

Bolstered by the grit, integrity, and pioneering spirit that define us as Yotes, it's time to build on The College of Idaho's historic strengths. Through the Changing the Story Campaign, we invite our exceptional community of alumni, family, and friends to help the College answer its calling with action and impact. Join us in pursuing our highest goal yet.

$150M

Goal to change the story for College of Idaho students.

100+

Giving opportunities to support our community.

Speak With a Development Officer

$129M

Raised to date.

Our Campaign Priorities

academic

Academic Excellence & Enriching Experiences

We're committed to advancing academic programs, student-faculty research, and experiential learning that will inspire students to choose The College of Idaho and prepare them not just for their first job, but for a lifetime of meaningful contribution and leadership.

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Access Idaho Scholarships

By expanding and endowing our Access Idaho Fund, we're removing one of the barriers between exceptional Idaho students and their dreams - opening our doors wider with greater financial support for our talented, motivated, and deserving students.

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Endowment & Planned Giving

A strong endowment fund helps a college both survive and thrive. With the challenges of the recent pandemic fresh in mind, as well as the new opportunities ahead of us, the College is committed to strengthening its endowed resources as a gift to the future.

Why Your Support Matters

The Heritage Scholarship made my college experience possible. Without the funding, I would not have been able to pursue the liberal arts experience I had so longed for. Perhaps more importantly, the Heritage Scholarship has helped me to uncover many of my future aspirations as well. In Summer 2024, I was able to attend the Gull Island Institute and work with leaders and historians to explore climate-based pedagogies. This inspired me to pursue environmental education projects in Boise and pursue a JD/PhD in environmental law.
Nathan Badger ‘26 B.A. in History with minors in Art & Design and Scientific Computing.

Hear More About Nathan's Experience at the Gull Island Institute

Without scholarships, I would not have been able to grow as a person, a scholar, or a world citizen at The College of Idaho. I am able to focus on my studies and stay passionate for learning without the added burden of working a full-time job. Classes that are not a part of my graduation requirements would not have been taken if my energy was directed solely at graduating as fast as possible.
Cassandra Brewer ‘26 B.A. in Biomedical Science with minors in Anthropology/Sociology and Art & Design.

I chose to attend The College of Idaho because I wanted a well-rounded and rigorous liberal arts education and classes taught by dedicated and highly qualified professors. My education prepared me for my career success by helping me develop critical thinking skills, further igniting my passion for learning, and pushing me to have high standards for myself in everything I do.
Christian Benischek ‘26 B.A. in Environmental Studies with minors in History and Philosophy and specializations in Business and Geoscience & Geography.

Without scholarships, I wouldn't have this amazing opportunity to study here and make the most of everything the College has to offer. They've not only lifted the financial stress off my shoulders, but also let me dive headfirst into campus life. Thanks to these scholarships, I've been able to focus on academics, take on leadership roles, and fully enjoy being a part of this incredible community. Honestly, they've made my College of Idaho experience possible - and unforgettable!
Asta Sharma ‘26 B.A. in Computer Science with minors in Literature & Creative Writing and Psychology.

My scholarships have made my academic aspirations possible. Without them, the challenge of affording college would have prevented me from reaching my full potential. Between the chance to perform successful biomedical research, the ability to form meaningful relationships with faculty, unique internship opportunities, and the valuable career guidance I have received, the College exceeded my expectations and given me the possibility to do even more.
Colton Troxel ‘26 B.A. in Biomedical Science with minors in History, Psychology and Spanish.

Being from rural Idaho, with a class of 15 students, I was accustomed to close knit community. I chose The College of Idaho because, from my very first visit, the school felt like home. Scholarships made it possible for me to not only attend the College, but to also take full advantage of everything it offers. They have allowed me to explore new opportunities, gain valuable experiences, and evolve academically and personally. Without the support of scholarships, these transformative experiences would have been out of reach.
Sara Vanderwyk ‘26 B.A. in Environmental Studies and Marketing & Digital Media with a minor in Religious Studies.

We Appreciate You

Thank you for supporting the College and our students. Your contribution makes a significant impact on our campus community and helps current and future students thrive academically and professionally.

Student speaking to donors