Bengal Tales with Patty Bolinger: ISU Alumni Board Past President and ISU advocate Patty Bolinger

By Amy Dressel

Published January 7, 2025 at 1:02 PM MST

In this month's episode, Amy Dressel sits down with ISU Alumni Board Past President and ISU advocate Patty Bolinger. Patty is a dedicated educator, counselor, and community leader with over five decades of experience in education and student advocacy. A proud alumna of Idaho State University, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1972 and a Master of Education in Counseling in 1975. Her ISU journey was filled with rich experiences, from playing on the tennis team to participating in organizations such as Chimes, Mortar Board, and Alpha Chi Omega. Her inspiring Bengal journey also includes overcoming a fear of water with the help of a professor and building lifelong memories through her many campus activities.

After graduating, Patty embarked on a remarkable career in education, starting as a teacher at Washington Elementary School and later transitioning to William Thomas Middle School, where she has served as a school counselor since 1985. She has also contributed to ISU as an affiliate and guest faculty in the Department of Counseling.

Patty has earned numerous accolades, including the Idaho Outstanding Middle School Counselor Award (1989) and the ISU President’s Medallion Award (2018). She has held leadership roles within the Idaho School Counseling Association, serving as president and in various other capacities. Her passion for community service is evident in her roles as a youth soccer coach, Girls on Track facilitator, and cellist with the Idaho State Civic Symphony.

A lifelong learner and advocate for education, Patty cherishes her time at ISU, where she met her husband, Ron of 51 years. Between Patty, Ron, and their four children, the Bolingers have double-digit degrees from ISU! Today, she continues to serve her community and alma mater. Listen now to learn more!