S3 - E4 - Featuring Patrick Tanner and Luis Caloca - One Student at a Time (Culture)

In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of the College of Western Idaho’s Enrollment & Student Services division as it embraced a unifying mantra: One Student at a Time. When rapid growth left staff searching for clarity, direction, and a deeper connection to their work, new leadership introduced a philosophy that centered on individualized student care, equity, and the belief that every student’s identity and life experience shapes their educational path. We unpack how this mindset reshaped professional development, strengthened staff morale, elevated collaboration, and drove measurable improvements. Through strengths-based training, identity-centered workshops, redesigned service experiences, and a culture that celebrated everyday wins, CWI created a division where staff felt valued and students felt seen. This episode offers a compelling look at why culture and clarity matter, and how an institution can transform itself by focusing on one student, one interaction, one moment at a time.