AARP Idaho Appoints Irene Chavolla to Executive Council

Irene Chavolla to join AARP Idaho Executive Council

AARP Idaho has appointed Irene Chavolla to their executive council – the highest state-level volunteer position within the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization. AARP Idaho has more than 186,000 members statewide and more than 38 million members nationwide.

Ms. Chavolla, a Nampa resident, will serve on the AARP Idaho volunteer executive council and work to achieve AARP’s vision, mission, and strategic priorities across the state. AARP Idaho state president, Barbara Blasch and state director Lupe Wissel appointed her to the executive council position.

“We are thrilled to welcome Irene and her wealth of experience, leadership, and dedication to help advance AARP’s priorities for Idaho’s 50+ community,” said AARP Idaho State Director Lupe Wissel. “Irene’s unique understanding of the caregiver and health care needs in Idaho will be a tremendous asset to AARP Idaho as we work on behalf of Idahoans 50 and older.”  

Ms. Chavolla brings to her new role extensive experience in education and public instruction. Having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Idaho State University, Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Boise State University and an Educational Specialist Degree in Administration from the University of Idaho.

Chavolla has spent 41 years teaching in public schools, working as an educational coordinator and consultant with the Idaho State Department of Education. Throughout her career, Chavolla has been a leader in education serving on several boards and committees of distinction including President of the Idaho Association of Bilingual Education, Co-chairperson on the Gifted and Talented Hispanic Work Force, and member of the National Association of Bilingual Educators.

Her innovative thinking and approach to instruction have also resulted in numerous awards including the Distinguished Service Award from the Idaho Department of Education, Professional Achievement Award from Idaho State University and Outstanding Achievement Award from the Idaho Association for Bilingual Education.

This appointment is effective immediately. Ms. Chavolla joins returning executive council members Tom Ressler of Meridian and Barbara Blasch of Boise.