Congratulations to ĢƵ (CWI) Math Solutions Center Teaching Faculty, Chelse Bulthuis, who has been named Faculty of Distinction for November 2025.
Bulthuis joined the CWI community in October 2019 as a part-time adjunct instructor in the Math Solutions Center and began serving in their full-time teaching faculty role in January 2023. During their time at the College, they have taught a variety of college-preparatory math courses, including Introductory Prep Math (MATH 097), Advanced Prep Math (MATH 098), and Expanded Prep Math (MATH 099).
For Bulthuis, teaching is rooted in a belief that education has the power to transform lives.
“I teach because I believe in the power of education to change lives and open doors to new opportunities,” they said. “I am especially passionate about supporting students as they navigate challenging math concepts and learn how to find their voice. I love seeing students build confidence, express their needs, and take ownership of their learning.”
Bulthuis earned a Bachelor of Science in Pure and Applied Mathematics from Boise State University in 2016. During their undergraduate studies, they worked as a learning assistant, where they began developing their teaching philosophy and strengthening their skills in facilitating group work while supporting students academically and emotionally.
Bulthuis believes CWI provides students with a supportive and inclusive environment where they are encouraged to grow and succeed.
“CWI meets learners where they are while maintaining high expectations and a strong sense of integrity,” they said. “It is a caring, inclusive community where students can prepare for a brighter future. I value working at an institution that prioritizes student success while continuously evolving to meet the needs of our community.”
Through their role in the Math Solutions Center, Bulthuis focuses on preparing students for transfer-level math while helping them develop skills that extend beyond the classroom.
“Students develop skills in self-advocacy, communication, time management, and independent learning,” they said. “These competencies are essential for success in college and are valuable in a wide range of career paths. By emphasizing academic rigor and personal growth, CWI equips students with the tools they need to succeed in their educational journeys and future careers.”
One of the most meaningful parts of Bulthuis’ time at CWI has been seeing students grow in confidence and pursue their goals. They recall running into a former student who shared that earning a degree once felt out of reach. With support from the Work-Base Learning Center, faculty, and advising staff, the student completed the Drafting Technology program and began a career they are passionate about.
“Seeing the confidence they developed in themselves was a powerful reminder of the impact CWI has on students’ lives,” Bulthuis said. “It reinforced for me how transformative an education at CWI can truly be.”
Bulthuis believes CWI empowers students to recognize their potential and contribute to something greater than themselves. In return, they say CWI empowers them to create accessible and inclusive learning environments that support students from all backgrounds and experiences.
“Because of CWI, I have been able to grow both professionally and personally,” they said. “I am grateful for a community that supports career development while also recognizing the importance of compassion, understanding, and overall well-being.”
Bulthuis grew up in Baker City, Oregon, after spending part of their childhood in Nevada. They are the youngest of four siblings and credit their family experiences with shaping their resilience and appreciation for connection.
They currently live with their fiancé, Daniel, and their dog, BelLyra. The couple met through the Boise State University Math Club and are planning their wedding for July 22, a date inspired by their shared love of mathematics since 22/7 is a classic approximation of pi.
Outside of teaching, Bulthuis enjoys hiking in the Boise foothills, camping, playing board games, cooking, and attending live theater. They are a fan of The Lord of the Rings book series and Star Trek. They also bring creativity into everyday life by turning routine tasks into improvisational songs, something they jokingly refer to as real-life musical plot points.
Bulthuis says they are honored to be recognized as Faculty of Distinction and credit their colleagues in the Math Solutions Center for their collaboration and dedication.
“Working alongside my colleagues has been a true privilege,” they said. “Their insight and commitment inspires me daily, and I value the work we do together to support our students.”
