Boise State University has secured an $8.5 million sponsorship agreement with Westmark Credit Union that will rename the campus Student Union Building and establish the credit union as the university’s exclusive official financial partner.
The Idaho State Board of Education approved the 10-year agreement, which designates the facility as the Boise State University Westmark Student Union Building. Under the arrangement, Westmark will open a micro-branch inside the student union and gain exclusive sponsorship rights as the official credit union of Boise State.
How the Funds Will Be Used
University officials said the sponsorship revenue will support renovations and improvements to the Student Union Building, aiming to enhance daily campus life for students. Additional funds will go toward student-centered programs and initiatives across campus.
Boise State Interim President Jeremiah Shinn said the partnership reflects shared priorities between the university and the credit union. He cited Westmark’s focus on education and community involvement as key factors in the agreement.
Westmark’s Campus Presence
Westmark Credit Union will operate a branch location within the renamed student union, offering financial services to students, faculty, staff, and members of the broader Treasure Valley community. Mike Schenck, president and CEO of Westmark, described the partnership as an opportunity to provide financial education and tools to students at a critical stage of their lives.
The credit union emphasized its mission to improve financial literacy and offer accessible guidance to individuals making real-world financial decisions.
About Westmark Credit Union
Westmark is a member-owned financial cooperative based in Idaho. Founded in 1954 in Idaho Falls, the organization has grown to serve more than 80,000 members through 15 branches statewide, including five locations in the Treasure Valley.
The credit union has operated in Idaho for 72 years and positions itself as a community-focused institution committed to serving Idahoans.
How Boise State Selected a Sponsor
Before finalizing the agreement, Boise State hired a consultant to evaluate sponsorship opportunities across campus. The review included comparing campus assets with those at peer universities nationwide, assessing the value of various campus locations, and recommending strategic partnerships.
University officials said Westmark emerged as the best fit based on alignment with institutional values and long-term goals.
What This Means for Students
The agreement gives Boise State students direct access to banking services on campus while generating revenue the university plans to reinvest in student programs and facility upgrades. The sponsorship marks one of the largest naming-rights deals in recent Boise State history and reflects growing competition among universities to secure private funding as traditional revenue sources face pressure.
The renamed Westmark Student Union Building will continue to serve as a central hub for student activities, dining, and campus events.