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A Legacy for Education

Becky and John Powers

North Idaho College retiree Becky Powers leaves a legacy of education and training for generations to come.

Becky Powers has a passion for lifelong learning and believes strongly in community engagement and education.

Becky and her husband, John, lived in northern Idaho and Alaska as they raised their family. Becky worked in hospitality, retail, and education and owned an art gallery. John learned welding at NIC and was a business owner, logger, mechanic, and equipment operator who took great pride in teaching these skills to multiple generations.

After moving to Alaska, Becky pursued her dream of returning to college. At the age of 54 she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in anthropology from the University of Alaska, Barrow. Her academic journey didn’t end there; she continued as an adjunct instructor and assistant to the Dean of Instruction at Ilisagvik College, inspiring others through her dedication.

Upon returning to Idaho in 2005, Becky assumed the role of NIC’s first Silver Valley Center Coordinator. As a long-time resident and active community member, Becky was uniquely positioned to connect people with educational opportunities.

When John passed away in 2018, Becky and her daughters established the John and Rebecca Powers Scholarship to assist students from the Silver Valley who are enrolled in Trades and Industry programs.

“I want to give young people an economic boost so they can get good jobs,” she explained.

Becky has chosen to continue her support of the NIC Foundation through her estate plan. This future gift will continue her and John’s legacy of education and training for generations to come.

For more information on how you can leave your legacy, contact the NIC Foundation at (208) 769-5978. Explore our free planning resources.