Herrett Forum Distinguished Speaker Series Presents:
Join us for a special lecture exploring the rich history of the College of Southern Idaho. From its founding in 1965 to its emergence as a regional leader in education, innovation, and workforce development, this presentation traces six decades of milestones and community engagement. Presented by Emeritus history professor Dr. Jim Gentry and current history professor Justin Vipperman, this lecture brings to life the visionaries, students, and educators who shaped CSI’s enduring legacy.
Time & Location
Tuesday, September 09, 2025
Cost: Free
Doors open: 6 p.m.
Presentation starts: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Rick Allen Room in the Herrett Center, Twin Falls, ID
Presenter
Dr. Jim Gentry:
Dr. Jim Gentry is Professor Emeritus of History at the College of Southern Idaho, where he served from 1969 to 2010. A respected educator and public historian, Dr. Gentry holds a Ph.D. in History from the University of Utah and has authored several influential works on Idaho and local history, including In the Middle and on the Edge and Meeting Needs and Developing Opportunities: A History of the College of Southern Idaho. His scholarship focuses on regional development, historical preservation, and the narratives of underrepresented communities in Southern Idaho.
A dynamic presenter and community educator, Dr. Gentry has delivered countless public lectures, served as a consultant on historical documentaries, and earned the prestigious Esto Perpetua Award from the Idaho State Historical Society. His deep commitment to public history is reflected in his decades-long involvement with local historical commissions and educational initiatives. Dr. Gentry has passion for storytelling and a profound understanding of Idaho’s cultural and historical landscape.
Professor Justin Vipperman:
Justin L. Vipperman is an assistant professor of history at the College of Southern Idaho (CSI). He grew up in Wendell, Idaho and attended CSI where he received an Associate of Arts in History. Vipperman matriculated to Idaho State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Political Science. He then attended Portland State University where he received his Master of Arts in History and Public History. Vipperman is currently working on an interdisciplinary doctorate in Political Science and History at Idaho State University. He is a fifth generation Idahoan whose great-grandparents settled in Wendell as farmer laborers and sheepherders. He often credits his love of history to his maternal grandfather who stopped at every historical marker throughout Idaho and expounded on its history. Vipperman currently serves on the Idaho Humanities Council, St. Luke’s Foundation Board, Preservation Twin Falls, and was recently appointed by Governor Little as a trustee to the Idaho State Historical Society. He lives in Wendell with his beautiful wife and mayor Rebecca Vipperman and three amazing children. He spends most of his time fly fishing and documenting history in the Magic Valley.
