ISU logo
Photo of Jennifer Vidalez in graduation cap and gown sitting on a brick paver in front of the Idaho State University sign

News

Idaho State and Direct Communications Announce Gift to Create New Esports Arena

Cast of the musical perform onstage in costumes and dancing poses

A major gift from Direct Communications will establish the new Direct Communications Esports Arena on the ISU campus.

ISU Bands: The Soundtrack of Campus Life

Luke Strother with ISU hat and trombone

ISU has a new Director of Bands and we’re excited for the community to get to know him better!

Partnering for Wildfire Disaster Resilience

photo of a field and trees on fire

ISU’s new FEMA-funded initiative is helping Southeast Idaho build resilience with advanced mapping, stronger planning, and a whole-community approach.

From Caldwell to Capitol Hill: Jennifer Vidales Selected for Prestigious CHCI Internship

Headshot of Jennifer standing in front of the ISU pillars

Jennifer Vidales (’25, Political Science) has been selected for the prestigious Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Internship, where she will represent Idaho while gaining hands-on experience with the legislative process in Washington, D.C.

ISU Choirs Experience Music, Culture, and Connection in Costa Rica

A group of people standing in an ornate opulent interior with decorative lighting and architecture.

ISU’s Chamber Choir and Pocatello’s Camerata Singers spent nine days in Costa Rica performing, connecting with local choirs, and sharing music in renowned venues.

Idaho State University School of Performing Arts Announces Inspiring 2025–26 Season

Graphic image of 2025-2026 season shows

The School of Performing Arts proudly announces its 2025–26 season, a dynamic year of music and theatre that reflects the vibrancy and creativity of our students, faculty, and regional community.

ROAR 1101 Launches Scholarship Essay Writing Focus

Two ISU students studying together

The course now includes a focus on scholarship essay writing to help first-year students confidently navigate the ISU scholarship process and stand out as applicants.

Deason and Mawlam holding awards

Connecting with our Online Students

To celebrate our fully online Spanish master's program students, we sent Bengal gear to help them show their ISU pride in their own communities. No matter the distance, our students are an important part of the Bengal family.

Group photo of conference attendees

Dr. Villalobos Graillet Represents ISU at International Conference

Dr. José Eduardo Villalobos Graillet presented research on the Mexican adaptation of La Celestina and its cultural impact.

Maya posing with an award

ISU History Alumna Publishes Award-Winning Article on Fur Trade History

ISU alumna Maya Peters-Greño transformed a class paper into an award-winning publication.

Request for Proposals – 2025-2026 Undergraduate Student Travel

The College of Arts and Letters (CAL) seeks proposals for travel funds from full-time undergraduate students declared as a major in a CAL program. Proposals will be accepted until funds are expended. Proposals must be submitted prior to the dates of travel. Funds for travel MUST be expended by May 8, 2026, and all paperwork completed by June 20, 2026.

Internship Opportunities

The College of Arts and Letters is teaming up with CampusReel to create fun, student-made videos about life at ISU and we need students! No experience needed — just your smartphone, school spirit, and a willingness to share your ISU experience. Selected students will earn $250 for a short-term content internship. Don't miss this chance to build your resume and represent ISU!


Meet the CampusReel team at the Part-Time Job Fair

Thursday, August 28 | 10 AM–1 PM

Pond Student Union Ballroom

For more information contact Elisabeth Curtis at elisabethcurtis@isu.edu

Get Ready for the 5th Annual Bengal Welcome Week Party and Cornhole Tournament!

We’re excited to announce that our College of Arts and Letters Bengal Welcome Week Party and Cornhole Tournament is back for its 5th year, bringing students, faculty, and staff together for an afternoon of friendly competition, and campus spirit. 


This year’s event is made possible by the continued generosity of our sponsors. We are especially grateful to Galo Medina, who has committed $7,500 annually for the next five years to support the tournament’s growth and success. Longtime sponsor Lookout Credit Union is also returning with their annual $1,200 sponsorship, along with in-kind donations from Ridley’s, The Popcorn Shop, and other community partners. Their support ensures that this beloved tradition remains a highlight of Bengal Welcome Week, complete with t-shirts, prizes, and a lively campus atmosphere.


Teams are highly encouraged to pre-register.

Events

A group of people eating at a table

Late Nights with the Graduate School in Meridian

Tuesday, August 19 | 7-9 p.m.

Payette Brewing Company | 733 S Pioneer St, Boise, ID 83702

The first Late Nights of the new school year will be in Meridian! Join us for a laid-back night of networking. Food will be provided by the Graduate School. We can't wait to see our Meridian campus Grad Bengals and faculty!

Graphic with text that says Neurodivergent Social Support Group

Neurodivergent Social Support Group Meeting

Monday, August 25 | 6–8 p.m.

Garrison Hall, Room 501 | 1400 East Terry, Pocatello, ID

This support group offers a welcoming space for neurodivergent adults (18+) to connect, share experiences, and build community. Meetings focus on collaboration, understanding, and mutual support.Free and open to all neurodivergent individuals in the Pocatello community.

Benny the Tiger stands in front of the marching band with outstretched arms. Text says You're invited. 25 year reunion

Clinical Psychology 25 Year Reunion

October 23-25 | ISU Pocatello Campus

Calling all Clinical Psychology Ph.D. alumni! Join us this fall to celebrate 25 years of impact, connection, and legacy. Alumni are encouraged to visit the registration page to secure their spot and join the celebration.


More info: Reunion Details and Registration

Explore Our Calendars

Donations to the College of Arts and Letters directly support student scholarships and experiential learning opportunities. Please visit our Giving page to make a difference today.

Connect with us. We'd love to hear from you!

208-282-3204 | cal@isu.edu

Facebook  Instagram