A new partnership between Boise State University and Westmark Credit Union aims to bolster students’ stronger communities.”
Equally important is listening to the student body rather than making assumptions about their needs. This includes utilizing focus groups to better understand what students expect from a financial institution and how Westmark can best serve the campus community
“We have a unique opportunity to ask students what they want and what they need from a financial partner,” said Tammy Ridgwell, Westmark executive vice president and chief administrative officer. “We want to meet them where they are today, whether that means financial education, building credit or another need, and then be a trusted partner as they reach those milestone moments throughout their lives.”
Connecting education and opportunity
The partnership extends beyond financial literacy. Westmark views internships, employment, and career development as vital ways to contribute to the overall student experience.
Westmark already employs both Boise State graduates and current students, and its leadership views this partnership as a way to strengthen those professional ties.
The relationship also highlights the shared Idaho roots of both organizations and a mutual interest in helping students establish careers and lives within the state after they graduate.
For Nielsen, who was raised in the Idaho Falls area, Boise State has been a part of his life since childhood. His earliest memories involve the Blue Turf and Bronco football, but his appreciation for the institution grew alongside the university’s own development.
“I have some very fond memories of Boise State growing up,” Nielsen said. “Over time, you realize it’s much more than a football team. There’s a university here that helps people progress and prepare for their lives.”
This broader institutional role was a key factor for Westmark when considering the partnership. Rather than focusing solely on athletic sponsorships or brand visibility, the credit union was drawn to an opportunity integrated into the academic and student experience.
“We’re proud to have the Westmark name associated with the Student Union, but this goes beyond putting our name on a building,” Beckman said. “We have the opportunity to be in the heart of campus and to support the educational and academic side of the university.”
A partnership for the campus community
While students remain the primary focus, the partnership is designed to benefit Boise State faculty and staff as well.
Westmark leadership emphasized their desire to provide value to the entire university community, from students just beginning their financial journeys to employees managing their own long-term financial milestones.
That commitment aligns with Boise State’s broader strategy of developing partnerships that directly enhance the university experience, said Argia Beristain, CEO of the Boise State University Foundation.
“The strongest relationships are built on shared purpose and a genuine commitment to our students,” said Beristain. “Westmark isn’t just looking for visibility at Boise State — they want a true partnership. By helping students build financial confidence, opening doors for professional growth and investing in the people who strengthen our university and state, Westmark is creating a partnership with Boise State that will have a lasting impact.”
For Westmark, this long-term perspective is essential to the relationship.
The credit union’s leadership team envisions supporting members through the various life transitions that often begin during college: establishing credit, graduating, starting a career, purchasing a first car or home, and eventually raising a family and planning for retirement.
“We really care about the education these students are getting, and we care about faculty careers. We are here to serve them, and we want them to have the best future possible,” Nielsen said. “One of the biggest stresses in life can be money. If we can share what we know and help someone build a better tomorrow, that’s what we want to do.”
