Legacy Endowment Announced in Honor of Founding Dean of the College of Arts and Letters

Idaho State University proudly announces the establishment of the Kandi Turley-Ames Endowment Fund, a new scholarship designed to provide crucial support to students within the College of Arts and Letters. Named in honor of Dr. Kandi Turley-Ames, a dedicated alumna, esteemed faculty member, and founding dean, this fund aims to continue her legacy of fostering academic excellence and student success.

Dr. Kandi Turley-Ames has been a vital part of ISU since graduating in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She joined the Department of Psychology in 1997 and has since held numerous leadership roles, including Chairperson of Psychology, Interim Assistant Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences, and Associate Vice President in Academic Affairs. Currently, she serves as the Founding Dean of the College of Arts and Letters, Vice Provost for Advanced Opportunities, and Professor of Psychology.

Throughout her career, Turley-Ames has been instrumental in stabilizing the College of Arts and Letters during challenging periods, fostering unity, and attracting outstanding faculty. Her dedication to student learning and collaborative research has significantly impacted ISU. She has also spearheaded innovative projects such as the INCLUDE project, partnering with rural high schools and communities to deliver educational opportunities to rural southeast Idaho high school students, and created the Resiliency and Road Scholarships to support students' academic pursuits.

The endowment will support students within the College of Arts and Letters, with preference given to students whose progress has been hindered by financial barriers, burnout, or academic challenges.

All donors are welcome to contribute to the Kandi Turley-Ames Endowment Fund at any time. For more information, please contact Tabitha La Force, Philanthropic Advisor for the College of Arts and Letters, at (208) 282-1404 or tabithalaforce@isu.edu.