IDAHO STATE’S LEADERSHIP AND GROWTH

PILLARS OF PRIDE: A RED HILL LEGACY

“The three pillars connected under the lintel represent the individuals within the group or the students, while the single pillar represents the alumnus who has left the student group and is standing alone.”

— Bill Ryan, Idaho State’s First Alumni Director

 

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All alumni stand as proof that the Bengal spirit still burns strong, pioneering, building, and inspiring generations to come.

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BENGALS WHO ROAR

For over a century, Idaho State University’s students, alumni and faculty have moved forward with courage, vision, and heart. From early student movements shaping Red Hill traditions, to pioneering alumni and faculty transforming science and society, Idaho State’s legacy is one of determination and discovery. Each Bengal, past, present, and future, carries forward the spirit that turns ambition into impact and pride into progress.

Marked History

Helen K. Whittlesey Ferrer: First Graduate, 1904

When the Academy of Idaho opened its doors in 1902, women were welcomed as equals, a rarity for the time. In 1904, Helen K. Whittlesey Ferrer became the Academy’s first graduate, setting a precedent for generations of women scholars who would follow. Her achievement reflected the Academy’s progressive vision and helped establish Idaho State as a place where opportunity has no boundaries.

A 30-year Pursuit for Change

Student activism has long shaped Idaho State’s history. For over three decades, students and locals rallied for four-year degree status, even transforming Red Hill’s “T” (for Idaho Tech) into a “4” to symbolize their determination.

At last, perseverance triumphed. On March 3, 1947, Governor Charles Armington (C.A.) Robins signed the bill creating Idaho State College, and the letter on Red Hill was permanently changed to an “I” for Idaho, a lasting emblem of victory and progress. The new college was officially accredited in December 1948. The “I” was rebuilt later in 2019.

Great Day: The Roar of a New Era

Great Day (celebrated from 1948-1950), marked the triumphant moment Idaho State College became a four-year degree granting institution. It gave students a proud occasion to celebrate their identity, and its final celebration gifted ISC one of its most enduring symbols of spirit: the fight song.

Dorothy Wagoner: A Woman Ahead of Her Time

In 1952, Wagoner made history as Idaho State’s first female student body president and the only woman in the nation to hold such a role at the time. Her leadership marked a turning point for women in higher education and embodied the Bengal spirit of courage, equality, and innovation that continues to inspire students today.

The Birth of the Bronze Bengal

In 1953, a papier-mâché on a wire frame tiger was made for a Phi Sigma Kappa homecoming float. The tiger was so liked that it was preserved and added as a permanent fixture outside of Reed’s Gym on campus for decades. It was taken down in 2013. In October 2012, the bronze bengal outside the SUB was revealed and a new tradition started where students give the statue a high-five for good luck.

Jack Johnson: Voice of Vision, 1961

Student body president Jack Johnson gave voice to the Bengal determination when legislators doubted the institution’s readiness to become a full University. Johnson declared a powerful statement that instilled confidence, unity, and hope among his fellow students carrying Idaho State’s determination forward. Two years later, on July 1, 1963, that vision was fulfilled. Idaho State College proudly became Idaho State University.

“Honor, glory, tradition, and respect are not endowed by acts of legislatures… It is we who work, study, and learn here now, and those who follow us, who will give birth to Idaho State University.”
— Jack Johnson, Student Body President, 1961

Moments of Perseverance

Idaho State has faced repeated global challenges with resilience and innovation. From World War I and the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, through World War II and the Great Depression, the 2008 Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic, Idaho State’s leaders adapted, expanded, and served their communities—proving the University’s enduring strength and perseverance through every era of crisis.

Idaho State University: A Multi-Level Miracle

For more than a century, Idaho State has faced challenges that tested its very existence, debates over its founding, global conflicts, economic hardship, and public health crises. Through resilience, adaptation, and community resolve, Idaho State University not only survived but thrived. Its continued presence stands as a multi-level miracle, built with courage, guided by purpose, and sustained by generations who refused to let it fade.

1901–1902: The Fight to Begin

Fierce debate erupted over where the school would be built, famously known as the “Battle of the Blocks.” Turner’s vision prevailed, and the Academy rose in Pocatello.

1914–1918: World War I

Nearly 90% of faculty and staff left to serve. The U.S. Navy transformed Graveley Hall—built like a submarine—into a training site, turning the campus into a temporary “Navy school.”

1918: The Spanish Flu Pandemic

The flu pandemic forced the school to close early, echoing a challenge Idaho State would face again more than a century later in 2020.

1930s: The Great Depression

During this hard era, students turned hardship into hope, creating a makeshift community at the base of Red Hill known as “Shanty Town,” or “Hooverville.” As jobs were harder to find, they built small homes out of cardboard, supported one another, and even elected their own mayor—a powerful testament to Bengal resilience.

In 1933, the Works Progress Administration put unemployed citizens and students to work at 55¢ per hour to complete the construction of the Spud Bowl, today named Davis Field.

 

1939–1945: World War II

Once again, students and faculty departed for service. The Navy returned, using the campus as a training base for elite officers. Among them was Louis Weertz, who later became a world-famous pianist known as Roger Williams.

Although the Wickiup* yearbook was suspended during the war, a magazine called the Dittybag was published and recounted many stories of military and civilian students joining together in student plays, choral groups, dances, and many other activities.

During the course of the war 2,200 men and 96 women from “the Branch” (University of Idaho–Southern Branch back then), served in the Armed Forces. Of those who served, there were 61 casualties.

*The Wickiup was an annual yearbook published from 1907 to 1981. Copies can be found at the Eli M. Oboler Library Archives. The Bannock County Historical Museum also has an archived collection.

Postwar Era: A Campus Transformed

Fueled by the GI Bill, Idaho State experienced explosive postwar growth, expanding facilities and programs. This era of optimism culminated in University status in 1963, marking a defining leap in academic stature.

2020: The COVID Pandemic

When COVID-19 struck, faculty and students adapted overnight, transforming classrooms into virtual spaces while preserving Idaho State’s values of inclusivity, and continuous learning.

 

THE FUTURE ROARS

Our history has helped define who we are, but it is our students who are both the reason we are here and the key to our future. In research laboratories, clinics, classrooms, and athletic arenas, students are not only gaining essential skills—they are learning how to apply them to make a meaningful difference in their communities and in the world.

Bengals In Action

At Idaho State University, we proudly celebrate students and alumni whose talent, compassion, and dedication create meaningful impact on campus and far beyond.

Lorraine Backstrom (1967), a member of Idaho State’s first bachelor’s degree in nursing class, she was a trailblazer in geriatric nursing. Lorraine championed patient-centered care by eliminating bed restraints for the elderly, reducing inappropriate medication use, and introducing interdisciplinary care teams, setting new standards in long-term care.

Ramon Murillo (1980), an ISU alumnus and renowned artist, has revitalized his career through teaching, mentoring, and creating evocative works that inspire reflection and connection. His art, celebrated for its cultural richness and emotional depth, adorns Idaho State’s campus, including the University House. His work is exhibited in universities and museums worldwide, reflecting the global reach of Bengal creativity and spirit.

Rachel Nielsen (2025), a Political Science MPA and DA student, dedicated to fighting food insecurity both as the student manager of Benny’s Pantry and through leading research into the struggles of food insecurity on college campuses.

Rachel grew Benny’s Pantry in countless ways, from setting up food drives, to creating a volunteer sign-up program and coordinating the partnership between Benny’s Pantry and the Idaho State Campus Garden. She truly embodies what being a Bengal is all about.

Dare to Roar: Idaho State’s Legacy Lives On

At Idaho State University, we proudly celebrate students and alumni whose talent, compassion, and dedication create meaningful impact on campus and far beyond.

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From its earliest days, Idaho State University has been built by dreamers and doers. Each generation transforms challenge into legacy, passing the torch so new Bengals may rise—daring to think outside of the box, and keeping the roar alive.

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“When I came to Idaho State, I didn’t have it all figured out. I had a scholarship, a few suitcases and a dream—like many of you did when you first got here. I thought I knew where I was going. I thought purpose was a destination. But let me tell you what I’ve learned since then. Purpose isn’t something you stumble onto. It’s something you build: one choice, one experience, one relationship at a time.”
— Donnel Morgan, Idaho State Alumnus, standout Bengal athlete, and Executive Director of Elevate Oregon

“You belong here. Our Idaho State University community is better because you are here. So just keep going, keep learning, keep growing, and keep making the world a better place.”
— Professor Maria Claudia Huerta Vera, Department of Anthropology and Languages

The Sound of Idaho State

Idaho State University is home to the state’s only Commercial Music program, where students learn to turn musical talent into a career. To meet that need, City Creek Records was born. This record label features music from students, faculty, and associated artists.

“Passing through [the arch] at graduation reinforces this symbolism and reminds you that wherever the future takes you, you will always be a part of the Bengal family.”
— Brianna Lyn Warth, Psychology alumna, Idaho State University, 2019