Save the Date: Joy Chivers Retirement Celebration

All are invited to celebrate Joy Chivers' retirement from Idaho State University June 15 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Gravely Hall lobby. 

Joy began her career at Idaho State University on February 18, 1980, in the Department of Allied Health Professions. At that time, the department included two programs—Health Care Administration and Radiographic Science—and was located in the basement of the Helen Beckley Nursing Building (1980–2011). She made an immediate impression on department chair Dr. Delane C. Kritsky because of her shorthand skills.

Throughout her career, Joy witnessed remarkable changes in workplace technology. She began with an IBM Selectric II electric typewriter with no correction key, progressed to a Selectric III with a correction key, then to a computer-like typewriter using 5¼-inch discs, followed by computers using 3½-inch discs, and eventually modern computers capable of almost anything. She also saw Dr. Kritsky go on to become Dean of the College of Health Professions.

In 1990, Joy began working part-time in the Health Care Administration Department and part-time in the Dean’s Office, also located in the Helen Beckley Nursing Building, under the direction of Linda C. Hatzenbuehler. Around 1994, she transitioned to a full-time role in the Dean’s Office. She later saw Dr. Hatzenbuehler become Assistant Vice President and Executive Dean of the Division of Health Sciences. Through Dr. Hatzenbuehler’s efforts, the Division became the Kasiska Division of Health Sciences. In this role, Joy moved to Graveley Hall (2011–2026).

Following Dr. Hatzenbuehler’s retirement in 2016, Joy has had the pleasure of working with Dr. Rex W. Force, Vice President for Health Sciences and Senior Vice Provost, and Dr. Chris Owens, Associate Vice President for Health Sciences.

Over the years, Joy watched the small Department of Allied Health Professions—with just two programs—grow into the Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, now consisting of two colleges and approximately 65 programs across multiple campuses. She takes great pride in the outstanding programs developed over the years, the many clinics serving rural communities across Idaho, Bengal Pharmacy, and the state-of-the-art technologies that support them.

Joy also reflects with gratitude on having served under five ISU presidents: Myron L. Coulter, Richard L. Bowen, Arthur C. Vailas, Kevin D. Satterlee, and Robert W. Wagner. She appreciated seeing how each helped shape the university into what it is today.

Joy extends heartfelt thanks to all the administrators, faculty, and staff she worked with throughout her 46 years at ISU. It has been a wonderful journey, and she wishes the university continued success in the years ahead.