IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — At a special meeting on Tuesday, September 8, College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) Board of Trustees appointed Jeff Carr to fill the vacant Zone 3 trustee seat.

Carr currently serves as executive director of the Museum of Idaho, where he has worked since returning to Idaho Falls in 2017. He became the museum's executive director in January 2023.

A native of Idaho Falls, Carr brings a broad background spanning education, nonprofit leadership, communications, public service, and community engagement. He has also taught humanities courses at College of Eastern Idaho, giving him firsthand experience with the college and its students.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jeff to the Board of Trustees,” said Lori Barber, president of College of Eastern Idaho. “He knows this community, understands education, and already knows CEI from the classroom. His experience in education, governance, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement will bring a valuable perspective to the board as we continue to grow and serve eastern Idaho.”

Carr also brings previous education governance experience. He served as chair of the boards of Alturas International Academy and Alturas Preparatory Academy during the development of the new secondary school and later continued as a member of the Alturas board.

Carr earned a bachelor's degree in English from Utah State University and a master's degree in Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies from Stanford University. Earlier in his career, he worked in journalism and communications and served as a Russia and Eastern Europe analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency before returning to Idaho Falls.

His community involvement has included service on several regional boards. He currently serves on the board of the Teton Regional Land Trust and as treasurer of the Idaho Falls City Club. In 2023, Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper recognized Carr with an Outstanding Community Education Award as part of the annual Mayor's Choice Awards.

“CEI is at an exciting point in its history, and Jeff’s appointment comes at a particularly important time,” said Trustee Cal Ozaki. “Our college is growing, our role in workforce and economic development continues to expand, and the needs of our students and region are changing rapidly. Jeff is a thoughtful leader with deep roots in eastern Idaho, and I look forward to working with him as we consider what comes next for CEI.”

For more information about CEI and the Board of Trustees, visit www.cei.edu.

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About College of Eastern Idaho

College of Eastern Idaho offers associate degrees, select bachelor’s degrees, technical certificates, and workforce training programs to help students achieve their educational and career goals. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and student success, CEI is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to the residents of eastern Idaho—redefining what comes next. Visit cei.edu for more information.