This week, Iowa’s community colleges gathered at the State Capitol for the annual Community College Day on the Hill. All 15 colleges were represented, and I was proud to see EICC show up in a strong way.

 

Phi Theta Kappa students, participants in the Student Legislative Summit, and representatives from our Dental Assisting and future Dental Hygiene programs took center stage in Des Moines. They shared their stories, work, and aspirations with legislators from across the state. They, along with EICC leaders, reminded policymakers of the value, and impact, community colleges have in the lives of students, families, and the communities we serve. 

 

Those conversations are important, especially now. This week, the Iowa House passed legislation that would allow community colleges to offer select bachelor's degrees. This is a positive sign lawmakers recognize the strength of community colleges and the opportunities we can, and do, provide to students. The legislation still needs Iowa Senate approval, but this is progress; it shows they recognize that we can continue to expand access and meet workforce needs across the state.  

 

 

Over the past few weeks, I hosted four student roundtables, welcoming more than 80 students from each main campus and the North Scott Regional Center to sit down and have lunch with me. I also invited them to tell me about their EICC education and experience. We discussed everything from making the decision to attend, career aspirations, and classroom interactions in and out of the classroom. 

 

They spoke about balancing jobs, family responsibilities, and pressures that come with pursuing an education.  They shared their achievements and their frustrations, because sometimes our systems are challenging to navigate. Yet, what stood out most in these conversations were sincere stories about people and connections.

 

They talked about faculty who stayed after class to help them understand a difficult concept. Staff who guided them through financial aid or registration, and advisors who randomly checked in and reminded them that they belong here. 

 

Over and over, students named people at EICC who are helping them accomplish their hopes and dreams. It is a powerful reminder that our work isn't about programs or policies; it is about relationships. Showing up for students in ways that keep them going. And celebrating them when they do. 

 

I’m grateful for the work you do every day, and yes, it matters. 

 

 

I’m pleased to share that EICC will receive its fourth Iowa Career Academy Incentive Fund (CAIF) grant. These funds will support the creation of a dedicated health wing at Clinton Community College, providing renovated and upgraded space for our CNA, nursing, and EMT programs. The grant will also support the Criminal Justice program with the addition of a new training simulator, giving both concurrent enrollment and CCC students the opportunity to work through and respond to realistic, scenario-based situations that mirror what they may encounter in the field.

 

These grants have made an incredible impactful across EICC, helping us expand, modernize, and enhance career and technical education programs that are preparing students for in-demand careers.

 

A special thank you to Megan Hills, Dawn Neuses, Carrie Jackson, Corey Johnson, Jason Elswick,  and Julie Howar for their leadership and work in securing this grant. Their efforts continue to create opportunities for students and strengthen the programs that serve our communities.

 

Next week is the midpoint of spring semester, and Friday is the start of Spring Break. This is a chance for students, faculty, and staff to catch their breath and reset. When we return, the focus will quickly shift toward finishing the semester strong.

 

Our role, as always, is to keep doing what we do best: supporting students, removing barriers where we can, and helping them stay on track to reach the finish line.

Every semester completed is a step closer to the future they’re working toward.

 

Thank you for the work you do, the care you show our students, and the momentum you bring to this college community.

 

Together, let's keep moving forward with purpose.