For Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵÍø (CWI) Assistant Professor of History, Cody Carlson, Ph.D., and Dean of School of Arts and Humanities, Justin Vance, Ed.D., studying history extends beyond the classroom. Both recently earned competitive fellowships to attend the Faculty Seminar in World War II History, bringing new scholarships, teaching strategies, and professional connections back to their students.
Carlson attended the weeklong seminar in 2024, while Vance participated in 2026.
Designed for college and university faculty who teach World War II, the seminar provides an intensive study of the American experience during the war. Participants learn from leading historians through lectures, discussions, and workshops exploring the conflict's major campaigns, turning points, lasting impacts, and the latest historical research.
"The seminar was a fantastic experience," Carlson said. "The staff was very thorough in examining the many aspects of the war, and they treated attendees like rock stars. It was a lot of fun and very informative. It has helped immeasurably as I teach my own World War II course here at CWI."
In addition to expanding their historical expertise, the seminar offered opportunities to collaborate with faculty from colleges and universities across the country, including educators who teach military students and military history. The program was previously hosted by the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Those connections are especially important at CWI, which serves approximately 500 veteran students each year through its Veterans and Military Family Services program. The College also partners with Boise State University to offer Army ROTC opportunities and serves active-duty military members through its office at Mountain Home Air Force Base.
"The seminar added to my knowledge and teaching toolkit with the latest research and publications on the Second World War," Vance said. "It also strengthened connections with other educators who teach military students and military history. Our attendance benefits CWI students by bringing current scholarships and new perspectives into the classroom."
The seminar is presented through the and made possible by Merritt and Elly Lane.
The National World War II Museum preserves and shares the story of the American experience during World War II, helping visitors understand why the war was fought, how it was won, and the enduring impact it has on the world today.
