Academic 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

Andie Lerum
Academic Advisor

Andie, a single mom, graduated from ISU in Psychology. Encouraged by her advisor, she pursued a master's degree, finding joy in assisting others with education. At ISU – Idaho Falls, she excelled as a student intern in academic advising, helping numerous students thrive. At home, she built Lego sets with her family, transformed desserts into cookies, and adored comical sweaters, mail, and triangles. Andie's story inspired others as she made a positive impact on education and embraced life's quirks.

P: (208) 535-5302
E: andie.lerum@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