Boise State University has secured an $8.5 million sponsorship agreement with Westmark Credit Union that will rename the campus Student Union Building and bring financial services directly to students.
The Idaho State Board of Education approved the deal, which designates Westmark as the university’s exclusive official credit union sponsor for the next decade. As part of the arrangement, the building will be known as the Boise State University Westmark Student Union Building.
Credit Union Branch Coming to Campus
Under the sponsorship terms, Westmark Credit Union will establish a micro-branch inside the Student Union Building, providing on-campus banking services for students, faculty, and staff. The Idaho-based credit union, which was founded in 1954, has grown to serve more than 80,000 members across 15 branches statewide, including five locations in the Treasure Valley.
Mike Schenck, Westmark Credit Union’s president and CEO, said the partnership advances the credit union’s mission to improve financial well-being in the communities it serves. The on-campus presence will offer students accessible financial guidance, education, and banking tools as they navigate real-life financial decisions during their college years.
How Boise State Will Use the Funds
Boise State officials said the $8.5 million contribution over ten years will support improvements to the Student Union Building, enhance daily student experiences, and fund high-impact programs and initiatives that directly serve students.
Boise State Interim President Jeremiah Shinn stated that Westmark Credit Union’s commitment to education and community aligns with the university’s mission. Shinn expressed confidence that the partnership will create lasting positive impact for students and the broader community.
Selection Process
Before finalizing the agreement with Westmark, Boise State hired a consultant to evaluate campus sponsorship opportunities. The review included benchmarking university assets against peer institutions across the United States, assessing the value of various campus locations, and developing strategic recommendations for potential partnerships.
University officials said Westmark was selected because the credit union’s values and objectives align with Boise State’s long-term goals.
Impact on Ada County
The sponsorship deal represents one of the largest private partnerships for Boise State’s campus facilities. With thousands of students passing through the Student Union Building daily, the renamed facility and new credit union branch will serve as highly visible reminders of the growing relationship between Idaho’s higher education institutions and local financial services providers.
For Ada County families with students at Boise State, the on-campus banking option may offer convenience and financial education resources that support students in managing their money while pursuing their degrees.