Helping Students Today and in the Future

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 longtime 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 Becky and John’s legacy and provide education and training for generations to come.

To learn how your current and future gifts can create opportunities for students to pursue their goals and career aspirations, contact Rayelle Anderson, Executive Director, at (208) 769-5978 or foundation@nicfoundation.org.