IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — More than 300 participants raced across Idaho Falls on Friday, July 17, during the College of Eastern Idaho Foundation’s annual The Great Race for Education.

This year’s event, The Great Race for Education – Valhalla Edition, brought together 19 teams from the community for a day of clue-solving, physical challenges and friendly competition—all while raising over $65,000 to support CEI students and programs.

Beginning at The Waterfront at Snake River Landing, teams deciphered clues that led them by foot to secret locations throughout the community. At each stop, participants completed puzzles, athletic obstacles and teamwork-based challenges before racing toward the finish line.

The Idaho National Laboratory Intern team claimed first place, finishing ahead of the 18 other teams competing in this year’s race.

“The Great Race is an opportunity for the community to come together, have fun and make a lasting difference for CEI students,” CEI Foundation Executive Director David Facer said. “Our mission is to change lives for generations, and we are able to do that through scholarships, program support and investments that expand educational opportunities throughout our region.”

More than 100 volunteers helped organize and operate the event, guiding participants through challenges and keeping the race moving throughout the day.

Although teams competed for the fastest finish, challenge wins and bragging rights, the event’s greatest impact will continue well beyond race day. Funds raised through The Great Race for Education support life-changing scholarships, innovative academic and workforce programs, equipment and facilities that help CEI respond to growing enrollment and the needs of regional employers.

Mountain View Hospital and Idaho Falls Community Hospital served as the event’s top sponsor with a $10,000 contribution. Idaho Environmental Coalition contributed $7,500 in support of the fundraiser.

Additional sponsors included Idaho Central Credit Union, Silver Star Communications, Curtiss-Wright, Teton Auto Group, Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, Westmark Credit Union, Lookout Credit Union, Kiewit, D.L. Evans Bank, Edward Jones and Citizens Community Bank.

“The support of our sponsors, volunteers and participants makes this event possible,” Facer said. “Each contribution helps more people pursue a college education or technical training right here in Eastern Idaho.”

###

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.