Three Students, One Scholarship, and the Power of Resiliency

For some, the path to graduation is smooth. For others, it’s a journey of stops, starts, and personal growth. Resilience is the ability to adapt, recover, and grow stronger in the face of challenges, adversity, or stress. It’s what helps people bounce back after setbacks. This is the story of three resilient students who crossed the line to graduation this spring.

Out of Her Shell and Into the World: Claudia Maldonado’s ISU Story

Claudia Maldonado, a first-generation ISU graduate from Blackfoot, Idaho, shares how mentorship, internships, and unexpected opportunities helped her find a new career path beyond law.

From Tennis Coach to History Scholar: An Unexpected Journey to Graduation

At 72, Holger Nickel is earning his second degree from ISU, a master’s in history, after a lifelong career in tennis coaching led him back to the classroom. Discover how a reduced tuition program, a passion for learning, and the encouragement of ISU faculty transformed his life and inspired new academic goals.

Q&A: ISU Alumna Susana Fernández on Returning to Her Hometown to Teach

ISU alumna Susana Fernández shares what it’s like to return to her hometown and teach at her former middle school, reflecting on community, global perspective, and the joys of sixth grade social studies.

Renowned Graphic Novelist Ana Peñas Visits ISU’s MA in Spanish Spring Series

Renowned Spanish graphic novelist Ana Peñas joined ISU’s MA in Spanish students for a powerful conversation on art, memory, and the social impact of tourism.

Back in the Dome with Donell Morgan

In this inspiring episode, ISU Hall of Famer and 2025 alumni commencement speaker Donell Morgan reflects on his journey from standout Bengal athlete to mentor and community leader, sharing how Idaho State shaped his life and purpose.

Digging for Clues: Partnering for Hands-On Forensic Training

Students, faculty, and law enforcement professionals came together in Pocatello for a forensic excavation training led by ISU’s anthropology program, simulating real-world crime scene recovery.

Fighting Hunger at ISU Through Research and Action at Benny’s Pantry

ISU student Rachel Nielsen is leading research on food insecurity at ISU, revealing its impact on academics and well-being. Her work at Benny’s Pantry and in the campus garden is helping create sustainable solutions and support systems for students in need.

Malad High School Celebrates Historic Success

In a remarkable achievement for a small rural school, eight Malad High School students earned associate degrees at graduation, showcasing the power of community, opportunity, and student ambition.

Scholarship Program Sets New Record

The ROAD Scholarship program set a new record in 2025, awarding 97 scholarships to Southeast Idaho high school seniors and building meaningful connections that inspire students and communities to pursue higher education.

Dr. Jennifer McDonald Honored with 2025 Area of Excellence Award for Fostering a Culture of Care

Dr. Jennifer McDonald received the 2025 Area of Excellence Award for her compassionate leadership and unwavering support of students and colleagues in the Department of Psychology during a time of profound loss.

Congratulations to Dr. Matthew Levay

We’re thrilled to share that Dr. Levay has received a Franklin Research Grant from the American Philosophical Society to support his archival research this summer at Cornell University’s Rare Book and Manuscript Library. This prestigious award recognizes the significance of his project and offers valuable support for his continued scholarship.

Levay has also been recognized with ISU's Outstanding Advising Faculty Advisor Award.

Dr. Shin Kue Ryu Represents ISU at Prestigious Council on Foreign Relations Educators Workshop

Dr. Shin Kue Ryu joined top experts and educators at the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations Educators Workshop in New York City, where he explored global issues and international relations teaching.

A new book from ISU’s Dr. Jonathan Fardy examines ideology through the lens of French philosophy.

Opinion: Why the world today needs to remember Demosthenes

In her Honors Comm 1101 class, Lecturer Payton Gibbs challenged students to creatively explore historical rhetoricians. ISU student Michaela Strickland rose to the occasion. Her op-ed connecting Demosthenes to today’s political climate was published in the Idaho State Journal.

Congratulations to Evalynn Dance, ISU intern of the month!

Evalynn, a major in Visual Communications, is truly making her mark during her Career Path Internship at KISU, ISU’s local radio station. Evalynn has gone from behind-the-scenes support to on-air newscaster at KISU, earning praise for her professionalism, talent, and dedication.

Rock Out with “School of Rock” This June!

The ISU Farm Bureau Summer Theatre brings the high-energy musical School of Rock to the Stephens Performing Arts Center June 20–28. Get a sneak peek of the cast at the Portneuf Valley Farmer’s Market on June 7 at 10:30 a.m., and don’t miss the Opening Night Afterglow event on June 20! Visit our website for details.