Advisors

Josh Peterson
Senior Coordinator of Virtual Campus and Advising

Josh is the Senior Coordinator of Virtual Campus and Advising and started working at CEI in 2018 and has loved every minute of it. He grew up in Rexburg, Idaho and attended Idaho State University where he received his Bachelors in Political Science, Masters of Counseling in Student Affairs, and currently his Doctorate in Educational Leadership in Higher Education. Josh has a very strong passion for helping all students meet their educational and career goals. He finds joy in watching students fulfill their educational dreams and loves being part of their journey. Outside of work, Josh loves sports and historical documentaries, more specifically United States history. He also enjoys spending time with his family and doing anything outdoors.

P: (208) 535-5382
E: josh.peterson@cei.edu

Barry Johnson
Academic Advisor

Barry enjoys helping students. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from BYU, a master’s in education from Eastern New Mexico University and a doctorate in bilingual education from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Barry advises students in Spanish or English. His experience includes advising and coordinating a GED/ESL program for community college students. Barry taught college reading and education courses. His extensive background in higher education allows Barry to understand the challenges of today’s traditional and non-traditional college students. He delights in helping students see possibilities not previously considered. Outside of work, Barry enjoys riding scooters, target shooting, coaching baseball, and camping with his wife and six children.

P: (208) 535-5612
E: barry.johnson@cei.edu

Nancy Taylor
Academic Advisor

Nancy started working at CEI in October of 2021 and recently moved over to the Advising Team in January of 2023. She earned a bachelor’s degree in University Studies with an emphasis in Public Health at BYU-Idaho and has found fulfillment in helping those around her achieve their educational and career goals. Nancy firmly believes everyone deserves the opportunity to further their education. Her nontraditional educational background gives her the understanding and experience to help all students succeed, no matter their background or circumstances. When she isn’t at work, Nancy loves spending time with her husband and 4 kids enjoying all things Idaho has to offer. Some of her favorites are visiting national parks, skiing, hiking, and picking huckleberries.

P: (208) 535-5302
E: nancy.taylor@cei.edu

Maria Bates
Advising Administrative Assistant

Maria Bates began working at the college in 2013. She has worked with the CNA coordinator helping students sign up for CNA and Assistance with Medications classes and assisted in the Student Affairs office. She is now the administrative aide to the Advising Department and does the Clery reporting. She is working on completing her Associate’s Degree and then moving on to ISU for a Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities. She loves assisting CEI students. She is the mother of 5, grandmother of 9 and great-grandmother of 7. When she is not at work she loves to read, bake, garden and travel.

P: (208) 535-5301
E: maria.bates@cei.edu

Meet the Advisors