The Year that Changed My Life
Nick Phelps, Class of 2024 | Master of Business Administration
From Iowa to Idaho's mountains, I found a true sense of belonging at ISU. Through experiences in the Holt Arena (now ICCU Dome) as a football athlete, to hikes up Red Hill, ISU will always have a special place in my heart and be a large part of my life story and journey. Since arriving to pursue my graduate degree, my time on the field and on campus left a meaningful and enduring impact. I loved everything about it.
Today, I remain actively engaged with my alma mater because everything connected to ISU reminds me of a time when I felt happiest, most connected, and most successful. I am truly grateful that I had an opportunity to be part of ISU.
Because Someone Stepped In
Philanthropic support to modernize the Sargent Boardroom
For the Associated Students of Idaho State University (ASISU), the Sargent Boardroom is where student leaders make decisions, host campus partners and represent their fellow Bengals. But prior to philanthropic support from the Sargent Family, some of the room's outdated technology often made that work more difficult. ”The upgrades make it easier to share information, host people remotely and create an efficient setup so that we can focus on what we need to [which is] leading,” said ASISU President Sky Halter.
Through the Shirley Sargent Boardroom Fund, John and Michelle Sargent are honoring the legacy of John's late mother, Shirley—a dedicated Idaho State staff member for more than 30 years—by ensuring the space that bears her name continues to support generations of student leaders.
Bengal Bloodlines
Shawnee Burt, Class of 2008, 2012 | B.S. Health Science, Master's Health Education
In 2003 I became an ISU Bengal and started one of the best seasons of my life! From the wonderful teachers to the beautiful campus, my time at ISU was a new chapter of learning and independence. ISU was big enough to have all the fun traditional college activities while still feeling intimate enough to meet friends and connect with professors. I loved being a part of ASISU, the honors program, attending awesome campus events and being an ambassador!
I met my husband and we had our first child during our grad programs. She was our Bengal baby, coming to study rooms and even to class occasionally! We moved away from Pocatello, but we love staying involved by attending events on campus and my membership on the Alumni Board. We both want to share the positive and impactful experience with our kids and mentor coming Bengals. We love being forever Bengals. Go Bengals!