Grad makes Crafts for Fellow CWC Alumni

On July 16, Central Wyoming College will host a 50th anniversary celebration to honor alumni, thank the community for its continued support and celebrate the future. Delina Wille a CWC graduate, has created key chain favors for this celebratory event. “Having a gift for alumni, crafted by a CWC alumna is fitting,” said Becky Ruthenbeck, director of the CWC foundation who is planning the 50th celebration. “This event is all about celebrating the people that have made CWC what it is today, and our alumni are a huge part of that,” Ruthenbeck said.

 Wille graduated CWC twice, once in 2009 and a second time in 2012 with three associate degrees. She completed a general degree, an early childhood education degree and a psychology degree. Today, Wille is a stay at home mom working towards a bachelor’s degree in professional child development. “I would like to work in a preschool, or even run my own preschool someday. I live in Thermopolis and am raising three boys. Being able to take classes online through UW and CWC’s outreach coordination has been so helpful,” Wille said.

 In reflecting on her time at CWC, Wille spoke fondly of taking classes with Professor of Psychology, Jewel Dirks. She said that at the time she wasn’t actually pursuing a degree in psychology, she just loved taking Dirk’s classes so much that her credits eventually stacked up and she realized she had just about completed the degree. “I loved the conversations. In Jewel’s classes we talked rather than getting lectured at and everyone could express their opinions without being wrong or judged. I learned so much from her,” Wille said.

 Being a student and a mom are not all that define Wille; she is also crafty. Wille runs a shop on the popular arts and crafts website, Esty. “I love crafting and I love my kids so I tried to put these two passions together. I create a variety of unique gifts and party favors,” Wille said. Her online shop called “Dew This” is filled with key chains, cupcake toppers, party favors, home décor and more; everything one might need for a celebration.

“I am honored to be a part of the upcoming CWC celebration, I hope to see a lot of past graduates at the event and hear what they are doing now.” ”

Delina Wille

CWC’s “50 Forward” celebration will take place July 16 during the Riverton Rendezvous Balloon Festival from 2-5pm at the Intertribal Center patio. The community is invited to attend to enjoy live music, refreshments, snacks and a great time. Alumni, anyone who has taken six or more credits at CWC, are encouraged to stop in, tell their CWC story and get a special alumni gift!