IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — The College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) Foundation has awarded more than $50,000 in campus grants to support student success, workforce training, and educational opportunities across College of Eastern Idaho during the 2026-27 academic year.

The grants will fund 16 faculty- and staff-led projects spanning health sciences, agricultural technology, workforce readiness, STEM education, student support services, and the humanities. The annual campus grants program helps provide equipment, resources, and learning experiences that enhance educational opportunities for students while supporting the college’s mission to deliver accessible, high-quality education throughout Eastern Idaho.

Each spring, faculty and staff submit proposals for projects that advance student learning and program development. Applications are reviewed by the CEI Foundation Board, with awards announced before commencement.

Several of the funded projects include:

Autonomous Tractor and Agriculture Curriculum: Funding will support the purchase of an autonomous tractor for CEI’s developing Agricultural Technology program. The equipment will provide hands-on experience for students enrolled in Introduction to Precision Agriculture, helping them gain exposure to modern farming technologies, automation, and data-driven agricultural practices.

GED Test Preparation and Exams: The College and Career Readiness Center will receive funding to cover GED practice test and exam fees for students with financial need. With more than 200 students currently enrolled in GED and College Prep courses, the grant will help remove barriers to completion and support continued enrollment growth.

Knee Surgery Simulation Equipment: Students in CEI’s Surgical Technology program will benefit from new arthroscopic knee surgery simulation equipment. The technology will allow students to practice one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed in the United States, strengthening clinical skills and improving workforce readiness through simulation-based learning.

Science Spooktacular and Science Spectacular: Funding will support CEI’s popular STEM outreach events, Science Spooktacular and Science Spectacular, which bring K–12 students to campus for hands-on activities in biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. The events are designed to spark interest in STEM careers while introducing students to college in an engaging environment. This year’s Science Spectacular served more than 600 students from across Eastern Idaho.

Virtual Reality Nursing Training: A renewed virtual reality training license will provide nursing students with immersive learning experiences that build confidence and strengthen clinical decision-making skills. Students can practice essential health care scenarios in a safe, realistic environment before entering clinical settings.

World History Textbook Lending Library: The Center for New Directions will establish a World History textbook lending library, allowing eligible students to borrow required course materials at no cost. The program is expected to reduce financial barriers and improve access to course completion for students enrolled in World History classes.

The campus grants program is one of several ways the CEI Foundation supports students, faculty, and educational innovation at College of Eastern Idaho. Through scholarships, program support, and strategic investments, the Foundation works to fulfill its mission of changing lives for generations.

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About the 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.

About the College of Eastern Idaho Foundation

Since 1992, the College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) Foundation’s mission has been to change lives for generations. The CEI Foundation is a separately incorporated 501 (c) (3) organization and the officially designated means of making private contributions to the College. Visit ceigiving.org to learn more and make a donation.