Brighter Together: The Enduring Partnership Between Idaho State University and United Way of Southeastern Idaho

Together, we’ve built more than a partnership, we’ve built a shared legacy of progress. From championing early education to empowering students to lead meaningful change, our work is driven by a deep belief in the potential of people and the power of collaboration.

What began as a collaboration around community giving, has evolved into a powerful alliance and we are proud of the bridges we’ve built. Bridges that connect campus and community, ideas and action, people and possibility. 

Every year, Idaho State University launches a university-wide United Way campaign that brings together each ISU campus to fuel critical community investments across the region. These efforts are led by an incredible campaign team that designs engaging events, cultivates generosity, and reminds us of the difference we can make when we act collectively. Through this partnership, thousands of ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households receive the support they need to move toward greater financial stability and well-being.

We are particularly inspired by the creation of the Student United Way of Idaho State University, a student-led initiative launched in partnership with UWSEI that empowers emerging leaders to give back through volunteerism, service, and peer-driven solutions. Their work not only benefits the community but also reflects the heart of ISU’s mission: to uplift, educate, and inspire.

This spirit of service extends across every level of our collaboration. Idaho State University contributes time and expertise through active roles on UWSEI’s Board of Directors and committees focused on health, education, and financial stability. These contributions infuse innovation and academic insight into the strategies that guide community investments, strengthening our collective impact and ensuring our solutions evolve alongside community needs.

Our work together doesn’t stop at campaigns and service. It also shows up in targeted investments that support some of the most critical needs in our region. The ISU College of Business’s annual scholarship, dedicated to supporting UWSEI’s Early Learning initiatives, has made a direct impact in Power County by helping fund preschool access for young learners. It’s just one example of how academic institutions and nonprofit organizations are working together to close opportunity gaps and build equity from the ground up.

As President Wagner has shared, Idaho State University has strong roots within the communities it serves.  These roots are strengthened by the determination of ISU students, faculty and staff who balance work, family, and the pursuit of education and professions, individuals who, like so many Idahoans, exhibit extraordinary grit in the face of adversity. It is that same resilience that drives our partnership: a belief that no matter the challenges we face, we rise by lifting others.

As we look ahead to a new academic year, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude and optimism. Though the world around us may at times feel uncertain, what we know to be true is that when we lean on each other, when we share our time, our talent, and our resources, we all rise. The partnership between Idaho State University and United Way of Southeastern Idaho stands as a testament to the difference we can make when we work together.

There is something truly special about southeastern Idaho, about its people, its institutions, and the way we show up for one another. We’re honored to continue building bridges that connect passion to purpose, campus to community, and vision to action. 

Contributing to the ISU United Way Campaign is now more convenient than ever. To opt for a payroll deduction, starting from your first paycheck in January, use our electronic donation form. Employees who utilize payroll deduction can enter into a raffle drawing for a parking pass for the Pocatello, Meridian, or Idaho Falls locations. Once the 2025 campaign payroll deduction form is submitted for the 2026 calendar year, come back to this link to enter into the raffle for a parking permit (for academic year 26-27).

Visit isu.edu/unitedway for the campaign event schedule and giving opportunities. 

By Dr. Robert W. Wagner, President of Idaho State University, and Shantay Bloxham, CEO of United Way of Southeastern Idaho