for alumni presentation on Lean Manufacturing, just and friends NIACC Leads Iowa in Providing about everything they presented we had of North either talked about or experimented with,” Iowa Area Lean Manufacturing Training he said. “Once I personally went through the Community Lean 101 training session, we knew this was the direction we wanted to go. College Manufacturing companies across North When asked by a member of the media Iowa are leading the state in something called how he could afford this much training and “Jody and Jerry both have a good “Lean Manufacturing,” and they’re sold on it. have employees away from their jobs so understanding of our culture, have an open Winnebago Industries, headquartered in much, Olson replied,“How can we afford not relationship with Winnebago employees and Forest City, IA, has taken advantage of the to do this much training?” management and have earned the respect of training through North Iowa Area “Because our workforce in Iowa is not all our employees.” Community College for the past year and a growing, we have to do more with less and Lean training is now an international event, half. Their goal is to eventually involve all eliminate all process and activities that do not according to Wells, with thousands of manufacturing companies all over the world Continuing 3,767 Winnebago employees in Charles City, add value to the product,” he said.“If we Hampton, Lorimor and Forest City. don’t, the competition will leave us learning and embracing Lean principles and Education “Lean Manufacturing is easy to understand, wondering what happened when we are out techniques. it excites all employees once they are of business.” It is also moving into the service industries Over 6,500 classes are offered exposed to it and it allows everyone to Another well-established local company, and office environments, so NIACC is looking yearly. systematically improve processes while Wallace Computer of Osage, which (including into the Lean Office module.“The hospital eliminating waste,” said Bob Olson, vice their TOPS facility) employs over 250 people, and insurance industries are very interested 80,000 enrollments are recorded president of manufacturing for Winnebago. has taken advantage of the 5S module. in having modules developed for their use,” across the district. “It fits perfectly when changing a corporate “The training has been well planned out said Wells. culture to put more emphasis on quality and and well received,” said plant manager Mark It seems likely that Lean techniques will be 24.5% of local residents registered customer expectations, and the real benefit is Flatley. “We are far more organized and around forever, especially since one of the for one or more continuing it’s a return to good old-fashioned common clean compared to where we were previously guiding principles is continuous improvement and “there are always opportunities to education classes during the year. sense used to run a business.” and our employees believe it makes a Lean Manufacturing includes several difference and support it.” improve!” Wells said. 97.7% gave the course(s) an modules, such as “Lean Manufacturing 101” The Osage plant is one of 45 facilities for Manufacturing representatives agree that they are in the “infancy” stages yet when it “excellent” rating or considered it and “5S,” developed by the National Institute Wallace in the United States. In November, comes to Lean Manufacturing. “very beneficial.” of Standards and Technology. Its focus is Wallace representatives from Georgia, North teaching people to identify the waste or non- Carolina, California, Nebraska,Texas,Virginia “I feel Winnebago has started a long journey that will never really be finished,” said 95.3% of employers are satisfied value added activities in the manufacturing and Vermont came to NIACC for a full day of Olson. “It is more of a culture change that overall with contract training process and eliminating them with the 5S training, which they plan to implement in keeps challenging every employee to through NIACC. objective to increase profits and reduce their facilities. manufacturing lead times. Lean methodology is not brand new. improve.” For more information about Lean $6,650,000 in training through the The Community Colleges of Iowa offer Olson said Winnebago Industries had been Manufacturing, call Jody at 422-4218 or Iowa New Jobs Training (260E) Lean Manufacturing training through the Iowa “dabbling” in it for some time.“When Jody Manufacturing Extension Partnership (IMEP). (East) and Jerry (Wells) gave their 1-888-GO NIACC, ext. 4218. Program has helped to create 1,594 The level of activity in NIACC’s service area new jobs at 36 North Iowa has been significant, with major companies in the last 5 years. NIACC offers many Lean manufacturers like Advanced Component Technologies, CURRIES, Fleetguard, Graham, Manufacturing modules, 4,053 employees at 121 North IMI Cornelius, Iowa Mold Tooling,Kiefer Built, including: Iowa companies have been involved Metalcraft, Stellar Industries, Sukup in training within the last 5 years Manufacturing, Suntron,TOPS,Wallace • Lean Manufacturing 101 through the Iowa Jobs Training Computer and Winnebago taking part in the • 5S (Sort, Set, Shine, (260F) Program. training. Standardize, Sustain) Of all the Lean Manufacturing events recorded at IMEP last fiscal year, NIACC •Value Stream Mapping conducted approximately 40 percent of them. • Setup Reduction/Single “The Lean training is valuable to both the Minute Exchange of Dies employer and employee,” said Jody East, NIACC’s economic development training (SMED) System coordinator, who was recently recognized by • Cellular Flow Manufacturing IMEP for her Lean Manufacturing work. “The • Pull Systems/Kanban employees learn the Lean methods by hands- Training Day - Trainees learn the on training; an actual factory simulation is •Total Productive principles of Lean Manufacturing through used to complement the materials. Ideas Maintenance (TPM) a factory simulation. from the class are taken and applied to Photos courtesy of Winnebago Industries, Inc. improve the ‘factory’ throughout the training.” East and Jerry Wells, president of Wells & Associates, travel to companies almost daily to teach the classes.“Lean Manufacturing offers a very practical set of learnings, and this is the first training I’ve seen that has been developed for total employee involvement,” said Wells, who has worked with 30 companies involving nearly 5,000 people in the last two years. “Lean Manufacturing will help companies compete in the very competitive manufacturing market that exists globally,” Wells explained. “Manufacturers compete based on price, quality and delivery of their products. Lean Manufacturing principles and techniques, properly implemented, will help companies reduce their costs and shorten their lead times while improving quality. All of this helps to keep manufacturers in our area competitive and to maintain jobs and employment in Iowa.” Time Saving Skills - Winnebago employees work on one of the many Lean East described the results from the training Manufacturing training modules. as “incredible.” 1

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni Moines and completed a brief stint with of Iowa have and friends Heilskov Joins Krause Gentle Corporation in Des Moines. become key of North NIACC Board A graduate of Hampton-Dumont High centers for Iowa Area School and the University of Iowa, he also technical Community John Heilskov, of Hampton, has been serves on the Hampton Area Chamber of training and College elected to the NIACC Board of Directors. Commerce Board and the R.A.C.E. lifelong learning. He replaces Maury Gulbranson, who recently Committee. He is a member of St. Patrick’s They are also completed his three-year term. As the Catholic Church and is the treasurer for key players in District 9 Director, Heilskov represents the both the Hampton Kiwanis Club and the economic CAL, Belmond-Klemme and Hampton- Hampton Main Street Program. development,” Dumont community school districts. His wife, Barb, is a nurse at Mercy Medical Heilskov said. Heilskov opened his own accounting office Center.They have two children, Soren and “NIACC is very John Heilskov in Hampton about two years ago. He is a Selina, who are both completing their progressive in sole practitioner concentrating in tax work education at Southwest Missouri State economic development and I want to help and small business consulting. Previously, he University. the College continue to make a difference in NIACC Alumni spent more than 20 years with Mosebach, “Beyond their traditional roles for life in North Iowa.” Advisory Board Griffith and Company in Muscatine and Des associate degrees, the Community Colleges Beth Bilyeu-Hesse '89 Debbie Cahalan '72 John Cork '94 New Director Districts Ann Fisher '93 North Iowa Area Community College is governed by a Michael Grandon '64 locally-elected, nine member board of directors. The State Joel Hanes '49 of Iowa recently mapped new director districts for the Cheryl Jahnel '75 Community Colleges of Iowa, including NIACC, in order Barbara Kellogg '70 to re-balance the population distribution represented by Jerold Magnuson '96 each director. The directors and the number of their Duane Meyer '85 districts remained the same, but the “footprints” of the Gail Meyer '77 districts have changed as indicated by the map. Te rry Schumaker '94 Debbie Sedars '71 District 1 - David A. Steffens, Jr., Lake Mills Joan Snell '65 District 2 - Colin Robinson, Charles City Arlen Throne '75 District 3 - Te r r y Cobb, Clear Lake Jay Urdahl '73 District 4 - Rosie Hussey, Mason City David Wempen '89 District 5 - Kevin Kolbet, Osage Mary Zishka '88 District 6 - Jean Torgeson, Manly District 7 - Karen Knudtson, Mason City NIACC Foundation District 8 - To Be Announced Board of Directors District 9 - John Heilskov, Hampton Gordon Anderson '62 Jim Benjegerdes Patricia Galasso Garrett Boyd,a freshman in NIACC’s NIACC Alumni Board president, were Glandon, Hampton/Charles City/Osage Maurice Gulbranson Machine Tool & Die Program, was featured among the Globe Gazette’s “30 community education coordinator, was Robert Halford '48 instrumental in the creation of an extreme Under 40” honorees. elected IALL Secretary-Elect and received the J. R. Herbrechtsmeyer sport park in his hometown of Belmond. “Rookie of the Year” award. Barb John Hitzhusen '34 KUDOSJody East, NIACC economic development Eisenmenger, Garner area community Richard Hynes '60 Richard Dedor,a NIACC freshman, is training coordinator, was recognized by the education coordinator, received the Missouri Richard Long running for mayor of Mason City. Iowa Manufacturing Extension Partnership Valley Adult Education Association Charles MacNider (IMEP) for her outstanding contributions Achievement award. Rita Foley, continuing Joyce Nielsen Tw o NIACC student athletes were named related to Lean Manufacturing training. education office manager, will serve her Tel Pappajohn '49 All-Americans recently by the National Junior second year of a two-year term on the IALL Howard Query College Athletic Association. Running back Kim Caponi, director of NIACC’s North Board. Karmen Shriver, NIACC interim Colin Robinson Robert Anderson, who led the Trojan Iowa Career Center, received the Certified director of developmental education and Linda Schaefer '70 football team to a second place conference Workforce Development Professional adult basic education, completed her service Russell Schurtz '61 finish and a 7-3 record, was named to the credential by the National Association of as an IALL Board director. Jennifer David Steffens, Sr. first team. NIACC soccer player Angie Workforce Development Professionals. Prescott,of the Regional Health Education Vicki Sukup Rockney, who led the Lady Trojans to a Center, was awarded the Outstanding Harriet Thompson second consecutive second-place conference Peggy Bang, visual arts instructor at Support Personnel award. Jean Torgeson '76 finish and a 5-5-2 overall record, received NIACC, won first place in the 22nd Cerro Linda Upmeyer '88 honorable mention. Both intend to play for Gordo Photo Show at the MacNider Art NIACC earned three Medallion Awards during Division I schools after NIACC. Museum for a black and white photograph the District V Conference of the National she took in Greece entitled “Late Afternoon Council for Marketing and Public Relations, Linda Upmeyer, member of the NIACC Santorini.” the largest affiliate council of the American Board of Directors from 1990 to 2002, was Association of Community Colleges.The elected to the Iowa House of Several NIACC employees received honors NIACC student housing brochure won a gold Representatives. from the Iowa Association for Lifelong award, the NIACC Performing Arts and Learning (IALL). Bill Burdick, management Leadership Series brochure won a silver Laura Schurtz, NIACC agriculture and professional development coordinator, award and NIACC’s Frame Your Future instructor, and Jennifer Kammeyer,former was elected to the IALL Board. Connie poster won a bronze award.

Diane Greimann,Administrative Secretary Tim Putnam, Interim Director, Pappajohn NIACC Faces for Tech Prep and Post Secondary Education Entrepreneurial Center The following people are new to NIACC or have Programs Jack Rohde,Automotive Services new roles at the College. Beth Maness, North Iowa Career Center Technology Instructor (Clear Lake) Carol Kelly,Associate Degree Nursing Staffing Specialist Merlin Schafer,Auditorium Technician Instructor Steven Miller, E-Commerce,Web Design Gary Show,Assessment/GED Records Tina Kunzman, North Iowa Career Center and Development Instructor Specialist Secretary 2

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni NIACC Students Transfer With Ease Due and friends of North to Numerous Articulation Agreements Iowa Area North Iowa Area Community College and NIACC articulation agreements Community Iowa State University recently announced cover a wide array of majors. College two new partnerships, which will benefit NIACC students earning an Associate students pursuing careers in sport of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science management and web development. (AS) degree may easily apply their The latest articulations between the two NIACC credits toward a bachelor’s institutions permit graduates of NIACC’s degree in virtually any field at four- Sport and Fitness Management program and year colleges and universities in Iowa NIACC’s E-Commerce,Web Design and and beyond. In addition, transfer Development program to transfer up to 65 agreements pertaining to other Credit credits towards a Bachelor of Science degree. NIACC associate degrees (Associate Student “These articulation agreements provide in Applied Science,Associate in Body students with another great opportunity for Science-Business,Associate Degree in a seamless transfer of credits to Iowa State Nursing, etc.) cover a range of career Nearly 2,800 students are University,” Michael Morrison, NIACC areas from industrial technology, Articulating the Future - NIACC sport and fitness enrolled in classes for president, said. “Students, taxpayers and our health and agriculture, to Sport management instructor and athletic director Ryan McGuire college credit. entire region are the beneficiaries of these Management and Web development presents the Sport and Fitness Management articulation agreement between NIACC and ISU. 65% are full-time articulation agreements. We are proud of most recently. Partner transfer our strong and enduring partnership with institutions include (but are not 96% are Iowans Iowa State University.” limited to): the University of (80% North Iowans) Sport and Fitness Management graduates Northern Iowa; Iowa State 55% are women completing their studies at ISU will earn a University; University of Iowa; Drake 63% are enrolled in Transfer B.S. degree in Exercise and Sport Science University; Upper Iowa University; (Arts & Science) Programs with an emphasis in Sport Management. Palmer College of Chiropractic; Mt. 37% are enrolled in Career E-Commerce,Web Design and Mercy College; Morningside College; (Vocational) Programs Development NIACC graduates completing Graceland College; Coe College; their studies at ISU can earn a B.S. degree in Clarke College; Briar Cliff College; The faculty-student ratio is Accounting, Finance, MIS, Management, Bellevue University; Northwest 13:1, and classes average Marketing, Production and Operations Missouri State University;Winona 20-30 students Management or Transportation and Logistics. State University; Minnesota State 25-35% of area high school “Students earning degrees from NIACC in University, Mankato; Simpson College; Everyone’s a Winner - Dr. Michael Morrison and graduates enroll at NIACC the technology areas of E-Commerce,Web Mt. St. Clare College; and Buena Vista Dr. Labh Hira celebrate the new E-Commerce,Web Design the following fall.Within Design and Development can easily transfer University. and Development NIACC-ISU articulation agreement. five years, 59% of them these highly marketable skills to ISU’s College In a report released by the Iowa attend NIACC. of Business and complete their four-year Board of Regents on retention and six-year 23 clubs and organizations degrees,” Dr. Labh Hira, ISU College of graduation rates at the three regents contribute to a complete Business Dean, said. “As an area of strength institutions, one section looks at Iowa college experience for NIACC and the College of Business, we Community College transfer graduation are pleased to educate tomorrow’s Iowa rates. This data shows that NIACC transfer Approximately 200 students business leaders.” students have a consistently higher are involved in Articulation agreements are not a new graduation rate within six years at UNI and intercollegiate athletics. concept at NIACC; the College has ISU than the institutions’ native students. 77% are employed while articulated over 50 agreements with NIACC students’ graduation rates within six attending college (average secondary and higher education institutions. years at the U of I are slightly under their hours per week is 18) Strengthened transfer relationships enhance native students. the benefit of attending NIACC. Students Articulation agreements that NIACC has Approximately 350 students Job Fair 2003 will be held Wednesday, live on campus. are able to acquire knowledge of specific cultivated with four-year institutions provide March 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in transfer requirements for selected majors students with the advantage of a seamless 80% of students receive prior to enrolling at NIACC and are then transfer opportunity after receiving a quality the NIACC Gymnasium. This annual financial assistance assured a spot at one of the partner transfer education at NIACC. event attracts an average of 80 (includes $5.7 million a year institutions upon graduation from NIACC. in grants/loans and over businesses from around Iowa and the $500,000 a year in Midwest. In addition, many companies scholarships) take advantage of NIACC’s Virtual Job More than 60 local Fair that will be online at www.niacc.edu dancers had the from March 3 to April 11, 2003. opportunity to perform with the Whether seeking employees or seeking Moscow Ballet during employment, Job Fair 2003 is a great the December place to make that connection. production of the Job Fair 2003 is organized by the “Great Russian North Iowa Career Center on the Nutcracker” held at NIACC campus and is sponsored by the North Iowa NIACC, Iowa Workforce Development Community and the Globe Gazette. Participation is Auditorium as part of NIACC’s Performing free of charge and open to the general Arts Series. public. For more information, visit our web site at www.niacc.edu/career_center (For upcoming events, see page 9.) or contact Kim Caponi, North Iowa Photo courtesy of the Career Center director, at 641-422-4353 Globe Gazette or [email protected]. 3

www.niacc.edu WINTER 2003 for alumni scientific mind?,” “Want to teach?,” and friends “Considering industrial tech?,” “Exploring a of North business major?” and “Are agriculture Iowa Area opportunities in your future?.” Community Planning sessions, such as “Can our family College afford college?,” “Concerned about college?” and “Planning for a professional degree?” were available for students and parents as well. Many students experienced hands-on activities in their area of interest. According to Rachel McGuire, NIACC director of Area high school seniors got the chance to admissions and chairperson of “Explore “Explore NIACC – The Place to Be in 2003!” NIACC,” participants gave this first-time with North Iowa Area Community College Congratulations Academic event high marks. faculty and staff in the fall. Excellence “This will definitely become a yearly event MCJC/NIACC! The “Explore NIACC” first-time career at NIACC,” McGuire said. “Students from 24 This year marks the 85th anniversary of the exploration program, sponsored jointly by 152 students from the Class high schools in North Iowa attended, and College, which began in 1918 as Mason City NIACC Student Services and the College of 2002 graduated with almost all brought at least one parent. The Junior College (the first public two-year Tech Prep Department, gave participants the honors, including 89 with comments from parents and students were college in Iowa) and became North Iowa opportunity to explore their options for the highest honors. overwhelmingly positive. I am pleased we Area Community College in 1966. The fall of 2003 and beyond. Ninety-nine could meet their needs.” College has been accredited by the Higher students and 109 parents attended the event 23 student athletes earned NIACC plans to host the next “Explore Learning Commission of the North Central and enjoyed the informative, fun evening Academic All-Region honors NIACC” college visit in October. Association since 1919. along with a free dinner from NIACC. last year; 2 were named Students had the opportunity to attend Academic All- Americans. sessions with their parents or had the chance DID YOU KNOW to split up from their parents and learn more Over 400 students have NIACC Credit about NIACC. 59% of area high school been inducted into the Multiple career exploration sessions were graduates attend NIACC Enrollment Up 2% Phi Theta Kappa offered, including “Interested in health care?,” within five years of international honor society “Computers your specialty?,” “Have a graduation. The number of students enrolled in credit in the past 10 years. programs at North Iowa Area Community College reached 2,777 in the fall, an increase Nearly 150 high school of 55 students, or approximately two valedictorians/salutatorians Community Colleges of Iowa Ask for percent, compared to a year ago. have attended NIACC Fair and Equitable Treatment Dr. Michael Morrison, NIACC president, in the past 10 years. describes enrollment as a moving target. It’s easy to recognize the impact of following early retirements or normal “Besides the traditional 16-week face-to-face 72 students have been NIACC and the community colleges of resignations. classes on the NIACC campus, we have involved in the Honors Iowa. The system of 15 schools enroll the And while tuition at the community classes in communities throughout the Program since its inception. majority of Iowa college students, provide colleges of Iowa is still very affordable district, open entry/open exit classes, 8-week critical ongoing training to Iowa businesses (NIACC’s is about $2,600 a year), there is classes, classes in partnership with high 2,668 scholarships have and industries, are major partners with concern about pricing people out of the schools and the hospital, classes over the been awarded to regional economic development groups and market. “What community colleges stand for Iowa Communications Network and classes students through the produce graduates who choose to live and is access,” Morrison said. “With these online,” he said.“It’s more complex than NIACC Foundation in work in Iowa. funding gaps and decreased state support, we counting heads in classrooms.” the last 5 years. The numbers speak for themselves. The may soon be denying that access.” Of the 2,777 students, 96 percent are 15 community colleges of Iowa enrolled NIACC has been forced to increase tuition Iowans, including over 80 percent from 150 graduates have earned 64,404 Iowans in the fall of 2001, compared 35 percent over the last five years, which is only North Iowa. Sixty-three percent are taking straight A’s qualifying them to 51,517 for Iowa’s three public helping to ensure that Iowa community colleges general arts and science classes and 37 for membership in the universities, and 14,765 for the 30+ private tuition will remain among the highest in the percent are enrolled in career programs.The NIACC Hall of Fame. colleges and universities in the state. nation. Last year marked the first time in programs experiencing the largest enrollment An impressive 63 percent of Iowans history that Iowa community colleges tuition growth were Automotive Service Technology, 300+ students have been entering their freshman year of college in and fees surpassed state general aid. Medical Assistant and Associate Degree honored over the past the state enroll at an Iowa community NIACC and the community colleges are Nursing (ADN). 11 years through the college. Including non-credit students, more working hard to make sure Iowans know the NIACC Alumni Association’s than 400,000 Iowans are served annually by facts so they can do something to help. The Pathways to Success the community colleges of Iowa. statewide grassroots advocacy campaign led program. Unfortunately, the dollars haven’t by community college friends has grown over followed the students. According to the the past year and a half to include letter- Legislative Fiscal Bureau (Dec.01), the writing campaigns, legislative forums, personal community colleges received $2,136 in state visits with legislators and presentations to support per Iowa pupil, while the private service clubs and community groups. institutions received $3,194 per pupil and “People need to understand what’s at the public universities received $11,237 per risk,” said Morrison during a presentation to pupil. Charles City community and economic “We understand there is a greater cost development leaders. “NIACC has been very for universities, but nevertheless that gap is progressive over the years and has made a Apply for huge,” said NIACC president Michael difference in the lives of North Iowans. Morrison. “Fair and equitable treatment, NIACC’s ability to make a difference is now Scholarships that’s all we’re asking for.” at risk.” Over the past two years, state funding As a friend of North Iowa Area Online for the community colleges has been cut by Community College, we invite you to Thinking of attending NIACC in the fall of over $25 million, or 15 percent, as the state become an advocate for the community 2003? You can apply online for NIACC grappled with declining revenues. The colleges of Iowa by joining our Advocacy Foundation Scholarships at www.niacc.edu! colleges – and the students – are feeling the Team. To submit your name for electronic Paper applications are also available from impact. At NIACC, for instance, the budget updates, please e-mail [email protected]. local high school counselors and the NIACC has had to be tightened considerably, and 15 Financial Aid Office. The deadline for the staff and faculty positions have been lost second round of scholarships is April 1, 2003. 4

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni College Tech Prep Students Explore Career Options and friends of North This fall, 11 Information Systems Internet service provider. The students choose to pursue a four-year degree. Iowa Area Technology students from Garner, along with learned that River City Internet, an area College Tech Prep opens the door to exciting NIACC instructor Craig Callahan, and seven provider to Mason City and surrounding career opportunities, while allowing students Community Networking I students from North Iowa communities, has a dedicated T-1 line for the to get a head start on their college education College High School, with teacher Brian Blodgett, banking industry and is a web host. Students and future. visited the North Iowa Area Community were able to observe River City College campus. Internet’s impressive equipment. While on the NIACC campus, students The College Tech Prep Program is explored networking closets with Jim Degen, an exciting educational opportunity NIACC network manager. The students also that prepares students for a fast- received a hands-on networking class growing technical career. Upon instruction with Mike Dirksen, NIACC graduation from high school, students information technologies instructor. will have not only a high school Employees Visiting NIACC gave the students the diploma, but also have their first year opportunity to see how networking layout of college completed at no cost to 250 full-time employees, diagrams (topologies), associates cabling and the student. including 92 faculty hardware devices they are learning about in After high school graduation, their Networking I classes are utilized in an students can choose to start their NIACC faculty credentials: actual setting. It also exposed the students careers or continue their college 67% have master’s degrees; to an on-campus IST classroom environment. education. Many students complete Wired Differently - College Tech Prep students 7% have doctorate degrees; The Garner IST group also visited River their Associate Degree with only one work in a NIACC IST classroom. veteran faculty have up to City Internet to see an example of an additional year of classes. Others 35 years teaching experience; full-time faculty instruct Employees Recognized for Years of Service 70% of the courses Numerous members of the staff and faculty were recently honored for their years of service to the College. An additional 1,000+ people 20 Years of Service: Larry Eichmeier, across the region help Agriculture Division Chairperson and Instructor provide the programs 15 Years of Service: Duane Meyer,Workforce and services available from Advisor with the Workforce Development the College. Partnership; Lana Miller, Charles City Center Secretary; Carol Schutte, Biological Science Instructor; and Dennis Vrba,Natural Sciences Chairperson and Instructor 10 Years of Service: Mary Pat Cole, Business 35 Years of Service 25 Years of Service Instructor; Rita Foley, Continuing Education Communication Instructors Mariestelle Donna Orton, Health Division Chairperson Office Manager; Kris Mandsager,Physics/Physical Brown and Arlo Stoltenberg and Instructor; Kathy Grove, Business Science Instructor; Bruce McKee, Instructional Office Manager/Accountant; Mary Wendt, Technology Coordinator; Tim Slaven,Theatre Instructor; Craig Zoellner, Biological Science Assistant Registrar/Records Office Instructor Supervisor; Margaret Dunbar,Associate 5 Years of Service: Diana Cameron, Degree Nursing Instructor; and Cindy Communication Skills Instructor; Mitzi Abben, MIS Specialist with the Workforce DeGroote, Student Housing Security; Gary Development Partnership. Not pictured: Eckholt, Manufacturing Technology Instructor; Al Reiter, Student Housing Custodian Gary Forbess, Manufacturing Technology Instructor; Phyllis Lauer, Custodian; Michelle Petznick,Associate Director of Financial 30 Years of Service Aid/Work Study Coordinator; Karen Pierson, Alice Schamber, Business Instructor; Vice President for Student Services; Jeff Platt, Sandra Gobeli,Vice President for Psychology Instructor; Laura Schurtz, Administrative Services; and Paul Nagy, Agriculture Instructor; Deb Stockberger, Communication Skills Instructor Medical Assistant Program Leader and Instructor; Lee Weber, Student Learning Center Instructor TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE SERIES Alaska Many Visual Trips Lie February 10, 2003 Ahead For the Travel and 7 p.m. Adventure Series This Year Some North Iowans have already been on a visual trip to the Great Wall in China or to the Atlantic Maritimes in Nova Scotia and look forward to their next exciting and beautiful excursion without having to leave the state. These individuals are taking advantage of the fifth annual Travel and Adventure Series Caribbean sponsored by North Iowa Area March 26, 2003 7 p.m. Community College and the Mason City Noon Kiwanis. There are still lecturers. It runs approximately 90 some presentations to come if you minutes in length with a 15-minute want to embark on a new experience. intermission during which time door Each film is presented in the North prizes are given away. Tickets are available at the door for Iowa Community Auditorium on the Scandinavia Holiday (Denmark, Norway & Sweden) NIACC campus by world travelers and $5 (adults) or $3 (students) and from Mason City Noon Kiwanis members. March 16, 2003 2 p.m. 5

www.niacc.edu WINTER 2003 for alumni and friends of North Iowa Area NIACC Pays Tribute to Former P Community College by Naming Campus Buildings in

North Iowa Area Community College has had relatively served as NIACC’s president for the next 20 years. He Leadership List few leaders in the College’s 85-year history (NIACC began currently serves as president at Fox Valley Technical The leadership at NIACC in 1918 as Mason City Junior College), and the leadership College in Appleton,WI, and recently completed a term on (and predecessor Mason City Junior College) has has been nothing short of exceptional. The College paid the AACC Board of Directors. changed hands relatively tribute to its two Both men and their families returned to the NIACC few times in the College’s “We celebrate three 85-year history.Though most recent campus recently to participate in an official renaming their titles have changed presidents – Dr. decades of progressive ceremony during a reception in their honor. Hundreds from Dean to David R. Pierce and Superintendent to leadership which have turned out to celebrate the newly renamed Pierce President, the chief Dr. David L. Buettner shaped North Iowa Area Administration Building and Buettner Careers Building. administrators have – by naming included: Dr. Michael Morrison, current NIACC president, said significant campus Community College, the during the ceremony,“There are three kinds of people in James Rae buildings in their North Iowa region and all (beginning in 1918) this world: people who make things happen, people who honor at the end who live here.” watch things happen and people who wonder what Jay B. MacGregor of 2002. (1925-1926 and 1928-1929) - Kevin Kolbet happened. David Buettner and David Pierce are exemplary leaders who made things happen. Our former presidents R. R. Fahrney Pierce, recent (1926-1927) president of the American Association of Community lit a bright path for the future of NIACC. Today, we take a Colleges (AACC) who has been teaching and consulting bit of their light and rightly reflect it on them.” S. L. Rugland (1929-1943) since his retirement, led North Iowa Area Community Jim Benjegerdes, former NIACC Board president and College between 1971 and 1981. His successor, Buettner, current NIACC Foundation Board member, said it is fitting Luelda F. Carlton (1943-1947)

Clifford H. Beem (1947-1966)

William F. Berner (1966-1970)

David R. Pierce (1971-1981)

David L. Buettner (1981-2001)

Celebrating Three Decades of Progre

Dr. Pierce and Dr. Buettner guided North Iowa Area Community College through tremendous growth and change over the last three decades, building NIACC into an important resource for the entire North Iowa region. In the early 1970s, the College moved to its present location on the east edge of Mason City, which unified the campus for the very first time. Two permanent buildings were constructed right away, and temporary buildings, known as Buildings A through G, popped up all over campus to accommodate the growing staff, faculty and students. Gradually, the alphabet of buildings would be replaced by permanent structures, with the lone “Building C” demolished just a few years ago to make way for the Pappajohn Business Center. The College continued to emphasize a complete college experience by building on the strong athletic tradition and adding to the variety of clubs, organizations and other social opportunities. Students could consider living on campus once the NIACC dormitories were envisioned and built and contemporary apartments would later give students another choice for campus housing. With advancing technology, NIACC became technologically savvy, working diligently to stay on the cutting edge. New program development would ensure that students were well- A Top-Notch Administrator - Dr. David Pierce stands in front of the newly renamed prepared for emerging careers and workforce skills and NIACC graduates continued to be Pierce Administration Building on the NIACC highly sought after by employers and four-year colleges and universities.Articulation campus. agreements with transfer schools and the strong academic performance of NIACC transfer 6

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni and friends of North Presidents Pierce and Buettner Iowa Area Community Their Honor College

Tw o Legendary Leaders - Dr. David Pierce and Dr. David Buettner celebrate the presentation of the new dedication plaques.

to celebrate our “There are three kinds of dedicated and visionary. “We’re excited to celebrate three past as we look to decades of progressive leadership which have shaped people in this world: people the future. “These North Iowa Area Community College, the North Iowa gentlemen have who make things happen, region and all who live here.” guided the College people who watch things through incredible happen and people who changes and wonder what happened. growth, and we’re proud that NIACC David Buettner and David has become a Pierce are exemplary leaders tremendous asset who made things happen.” to North Iowa.” - Michael Morrison Kevin Kolbet, president of the NIACC Board of Directors, said the College is fortunate to have had leaders who are capable, Three Wise Men - Dr. David Buettner, Dr. Michael Morrison and Dr. David Pierce have provided incredible guidance to the College. essive Leadership

students, in fact, would help to build the College’s reputation as a premier community college. High school students were given the opportunity to get a head start on college and their careers through NIACC, and a growing number of recent high school graduates would choose NIACC First. The student body continued to evolve as people of all ages and backgrounds took advantage of lifelong learning opportunities through NIACC. Access was enhanced with the addition of community education centers across the district and the introduction of a new way to take classes – online! With its ambitious agenda, NIACC increasingly relied on private support to reach its goals. The NIACC Foundation, which was originally established to raise money for gymnasium bleachers, would grow significantly with the support of NIACC friends...providing a valuable resource for new construction and program development, greatly expanding scholarship opportunities for students and making possible new endeavors like the Quite a Career - Dr. David Buettner popular NIACC Performing Arts and Leadership Series. Business and industry training grew in stands by the newly renamed Buettner scope and magnitude, with the College becoming a valuable playing card during local Careers Building on the NIACC campus. communities’ efforts to attract new companies to the area. NIACC’s economic development and workforce development efforts would involve many strategic partners and take many shapes, including the Regional Health Education Center, the Murphy Manufacturing Technology Center, the Workforce Development Center and the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. As the College celebrates its 85th anniversary, we salute our past and look forward to an exciting future! 7

WINTER 2003 for alumni and friends NIACC Provides Conference Opportunities for Women of North North Iowa Area Community College Women will have another chance to Iowa Area brings numerous opportunities for women to enhance their lives by attending “Rhythms of Community the area through daylong Continuing Life: A Day For Women” on Saturday, March College Education conferences. 8, 2003, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at NIACC’s NIACC was host recently to Marcia Muse Norris Conference Center. Wieder, who was coined “America’s Dream During the conference, Sally Allen will Coach” by Oprah Winfrey. Wieder taught present the workshop “Shooting The Rapids: North Iowa women to create a formula to Applying Creativity In Your Life” which overcome whatever is in the way of their encourages women to apply creative dreams at her keynote address during the strategies to life situations. “On Your Way In Just One Day:A Woman’s Keynote speaker Deadra Stanton will share Conference” held last October. stories and humor to help participants slow Financial Wieder travels the world helping people down and keep life in perspective when she Information discover and achieve their dreams and presents “Fines Double in Road conducts lectures for companies such as Construction.” Stanton is a presenter for Resident tuition is AT&T,American Express and The Gap as well Creative Communications and has been a $78 per credit hour; as for groups such as the Young President’s teacher for over 25 years. An honor non-resident tuition is Organization and the Girl Scouts. She is the graduate and speech scholar from Minnesota $117 per credit hour. founder of Dream University and the author State University, Mankato, she was a three- of two books, Life is But a Dream and Doing year national speech champion. Average tuition & fees for Less and Having More. She has appeared on This event promises to bring out residents runs about national television, including Oprah and the participants’ passion for life. It will indulge a $1,300 per semester or Today show, and is featured in a national PBS need for tranquility, inner vision and $2,600 per year. television special, Making Your Dreams Come creativity. The workshop will provide a True. Her work has appeared in numerous chance for women to stretch their talents, the Way Up, Investments for Women, Room & board is $1,780 print publications, including USA Today, the minds and circle of friends. Managing Wellness In the Workplace,Yoga, per semester. Washington Post, and the New York Daily News. To r egister for “Rhythms of Life: A Day For Resolving Conflict, Feng Shui, Humor In the Other topics covered by “On Your Way In Women” call 422-4358 or 1-888-GO Workplace,The Love Connection and Your The College operating Just One Day:A Woman’s Conference” NIACC, ext. 4358. The cost is $29. Health, Personal Styles and Essential Oils and budget is $17.9 million. included: Present Yourself As a Woman On Herbs. Tuition & fees represent 37% of the operating budget. NIACC Online Classes Boom with Interest Story courtesy of the Globe Gazette NIACC’s tax rate is 59 cents per $1,000 of assessed Tracee Sprau of Clear Lake hopes to be an people who work night shifts and people in success.” valuation; local property elementary teacher one day – but raising a the military. I know of some in the military Instructors must also keep on top of e-mail taxes represent just 5% of family and working a regular job makes taking that moved to three different bases during messages, Hamilton said. “That takes some the operating budget. college courses tough. So when North Iowa the course of one course. And they kept up,” getting used to – you don’t want to have a Area Community College began offering McKee said. student wait for an answer,” he said. “You classes via the Internet, Sprau jumped at the Accounting instructor Greg Lauer said he have to be diligent. But all of that is pretty chance to take classes from home. has students enrolled from as far away as minor,” he said, adding that McKee “works “It really makes my life easier,” she said. New Hampshire and Tennessee. with us and does an excellent job She is not alone. Flexibility and travel cost Courses seem limitless. “It really makes to make it all happen.” savings have kept NIACC’s online classes an Students can choose from classes my life easier... Student self-discipline is another increasingly popular way to take courses, ranging from microeconomics to online issue. officials reported. Enrollments have more public speaking. Those enrolled I can work at Online courses are not “for than doubled each year since the 1999-2000 in public speaking use video my own pace.” everyone,” said office technology school year, said Tammy Hove, director of equipment or CD movie media instructor Jeanne McCurnin. “You institutional advancement for NIACC. to give speeches and send them - Tracee Sprau have to meet your own deadlines, Five classes came online in 1997. That to the instructor. you have to have good problem- number jumped to eight courses the next There are some challenges to teaching solving skills. What happens if you don’t year when 258 students were taking courses. online, both for the student and teacher, said understand something and it’s 3 a.m.?” Then, word really got around. Brent Hamilton, a career math instructor. “Students in my class have 15 weeks to Today, 1,649 students have taken at least Teaching methods shift when they are complete the work; they don’t have to submit one of about 40 courses now offered online delivered over the Internet and some minor anything in-between. But it takes a particular at NIACC, totaling 6,200 credit hours. irritations may result. In Hamilton’s case, he kind of student to study in this fashion.” NIACC was the first of Iowa’s community has to hand-fashion math symbols, many of Lauer said most of his students enrolled in colleges to offer a complete associate of arts which are absent from keyboards, and then the online courses “are pretty committed to degree online. Tuition rates remain the same go through several software “jumps” to the course, and usually can get the work as those charged in the classroom. present them online. done in a timely way.” Sprau, 33, has taken Composition I, Some tests need to be given under physical McCurnin agreed that the program is a Biological Principles,Art History and supervision. Hamilton’s courses require that good one. “It gives us more students from Chemistry, among others, via the Internet. students take their test at a proctored site – different areas, who have family situations “When you have to travel from Clear Lake, with the cooperation of a local school or that might prevent them from attending and you have children, it just frees up time,” public library. classes,” McCurnin said. Sprau said. “I can work at my own pace.” McKee, a key person in the establishment Lauer agreed. “It’s a challenge at first, for A mix of traditional and non-traditional of online courses, is the “online teacher” for the staff. You have to learn a different way of students are enrolled in the courses, some faculty. He trains and assists staff in preparing teaching,” Lauer said. “But it’s exciting as from as far away as France, said instructional coursework for the Internet, showing them well. It provides access to courses to technology coordinator Bruce McKee. how to best utilize the program. students who might not have been able to The flexibility was the goal of the program. “If a student is having a problem accessing get them done otherwise.” McKee said 80 percent of the students the course, or some other problem, they can enrolled are from North Iowa, but the e-mail or phone me, and I can help them, For more information, go to: remainder reflects a mix of people. too,” he said. “The College wants to make www.niacc.edu/online “I have high school students from Osceola, sure all our students have a high degree of 8

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni PERFORMING ARTS SERIES EVENTS and friends of North Many from around the North Iowa area have Iowa Area already visited the North Iowa Community Community Auditorium for some of the outstanding events in College the 2002-2003 Performing Arts and Leadership Series. If you haven’t been to an event yet this year, PORGY AND BESS you’re in luck, the great line-up continues! February 20, 2003 Performances still to come are: Porgy and Bess, February 20; BLAST! II Shockwave,March 4; South Pacific,April 15; and The Miracle Worker,May 4. The Leadership Series will feature Frank Abagnale on April 3. All events will be held at the North Iowa Community Auditorium on the NIACC campus. Facilities Sponsors for the 2002-2003 series include NIACC, the Elizabeth Muse Norris Charitable Fund, the 500-acre countryside Globe Gazette,Alliant Energy, First Citizens campus National Bank, Hanford Inn, Henkel Construction, Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa, OmniTel state-of-the-art classrooms Communications, Pepsi Cola General Bottlers of and laboratories Mason City, the Principal Financial Group, the 1,150-seat performance National Endowment for the Arts, the Heartland SHOCKWAVE auditorium Arts Fund and the Iowa Arts Council. – BLAST! 150-seat classroom For tickets, call the NIACC Box Office at 422-4188 March 4, 2003 auditorium or 1-888-GO NIACC, ext. 4188. 3,600 sq. ft. conference center

multi-purpose seminar rooms

contemporary student activity center

Writer’s Workbench

library with complete THE MIRACLE services and resources WORKER May 4, 2003 nearly 500 computers available for student use

networked faculty and staff SOUTH PACIFIC offices and work stations April 15, 2003 4 Iowa Communications Network (ICN) classrooms

advanced manufacturing LEADERSHIP SERIES SPEAKER technology center athletic facilities - FRANK ABAGNALE gymnasium, soccer fields, April 3, 2003 softball/baseball/football practice fields Frank Abagnale didn’t use a gun or force in his now legendary life of crime. His weapon was his fitness center wit.With an I.Q. of 136, he successfully, and for extended periods of time, impersonated a doctor, attorney, professor, FBI agent and a pilot for a major airline.After serving time and residence halls and repaying the $2.5 million, he is now one of the world’s most respected authorities on the subjects of forgery, embezzlement and secure documents.Abagnale’s incredible story has a student apartments moral. In an emotional roller coaster ride, he takes the audience from laughter to tears and OK House shows that family is the most important thing. His story is depicted in the best-selling book Catch Me If You Can, also a motion picture by Steven Spielberg’s company, DreamWorks. free parking

WELLMARK INVESTMENT of new businesses and improved operations Development Center. “The Wellmark CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE for small-business owners across the state. investment can help more North Iowa NIACC held a news conference to businesses begin on solid footing.” development,” he said.“It also represents announce what impact the Wellmark Putnam explained that the Pappajohn another strong vote of confidence in NIACC. Community Venture Fund investment monies Entrepreneurial Center will consider all types We are very pleased to be recognized will have on North Iowa and where they will of projects, and businesses with the following through this partnership for our leadership in be invested in the area. On hand were David characteristics will be given higher priority: entrepreneurial education and development.” Keck, chief financial officer of Equity value-added agriculture, advanced The Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers Dynamics; Tim Putnam, interim director of manufacturing, new innovation and provide a range of innovative education, the NIACC Pappajohn Center; President technology-based; potential to show programs and support services designed for Morrison, and North Iowa stakeholders – significant growth or become regional; and entrepreneurs and existing business owners. including entrepreneurs, small business ability to attract equity capital and/or debt They provide expertise in all stages of owners, angel investors and community financing. business planning and development, and serve leaders. For more information, contact the NIACC as vehicles to bring new products and “Adequate capital better assures that a Pappajohn Center at 422-4111 or 1-888-GO technologies to market.The Centers business can reach its break-even point and NIACC, ext. 4111. collaborate with other organizations as become self-sustaining,” said Richard necessary to stimulate Iowa’s entrepreneurial Petersen, director of the Small Business environment.Their work has led to hundreds 9

www.niacc.edu WINTER 2003 for alumni and friends Hollywood Writer-Producer to Speak at of North Iowa Area Pathways to Success Community Dave Alan Johnson, a Hollywood writer- brother, Gary, and sister-in-law, Joan. College producer, will be the honored guest and Johnson has created and produced such speaker for this year’s Pathways to Success celebrated television series as ABC’s “Jack’s event to be held in April on the NIACC Place” starring Hal Linden, the critically campus. acclaimed NBC series “Against the Grain” The NIACC Alumni Association hosts this starring Ben Affleck, and CBS’s “The Client” annual event to honor a select group of with JoBeth Williams. He co-created and students for their scholarship, leadership and produced “High Incident” with Steven Spielberg character. An accomplished NIACC graduate is and is currently developing “Just A Few Savages,” invited back each year to share his or her an upcoming movie from Impact Films. NIACC “pathway to success” with the students and To ny Jonas, former President of Warner Bros. Service general audience. TV said,“Dave’s prolific ability to create and Area The son of Roy and Bonnie Johnson of write quality scripts, coupled with his show- Buffalo Center, Dave Johnson is a 1976 graduate running talent, places him among the best The North Iowa Area of North Iowa Area Community College. He writer/producers in the industry.” Community College has been a successful member of the Despite his celebrity status, Johnson still feels service area (Area Two) Hollywood community for more than a decade, his greatest assets were acquired while growing encompasses all of Cerro showing his creative talents for such leading up in his native Iowa. “My roots and faith have Pathways to Success Speaker - Gordo, Floyd, Franklin, entertainment companies as Warner Bros., given me an ability to touch the hearts and Dave Johnson (right), a 1976 NIACC Hancock, Mitchell, DreamWorks, Disney, Paramount, Sony, MGM, minds of everyday folks across the country graduate, shares a laugh with Billy Ray Cyrus, Winnebago and Worth FOX,ABC, NBC and CBS. because I’m one of them. It’s something I’m who stars in the hit drama series “Doc” counties and parts of Butler, This season, he serves double duty as the proud of -- it’s who I am.” which Johnson created and writes for PAX Chickasaw, Kossuth and creator of PAX TV’s “Sue Thomas: F. B. Eye” in Johnson and his wife, Diane, live in Moorpark, TV. Johnson will be the guest speaker for the Wright counties. its first season and “Doc” now in its third CA, with their daughter,Alex, and son, Matt. NIACC Alumni Association’s 2003 Pathways season. He works on both series with his to Success event in April. 3,621 square miles Carol Faber, NIACC $4,687,505,531 Donations Come in Many Forms visual arts instructor assessed valuation and gallery director, illustrated the book 121,074 citizens among “A 4-H Story: Helping nearly 60,000 households Hands and Caring Hearts.” This children’s history book commemorates the 100th anniversary of 4-H. Faber grew up in Woodbury County and Automotive instructors Greg Arrowood and Rob was a member of the Leeds Leaders and Heimbuch stand next to the new 2001 Chrysler 4-Leaf Falcons 4-H clubs. She still works in 4-H Sebring LXI, one of two vehicles donated by as a volunteer and judge for the visual arts. Daimler Chrysler.The vehicles will be used to Her drawings, made for the 56-page, full help NIACC automotive students develop their Recently retired NIACC instructors, Mary and troubleshooting skills on these vehicles and Mike Thede, display some of the beautiful color book, help present the history of 4-H become exposed to the new automotive wildlife prints they have donated to the NIACC through the alphabet. The book is meant for technology that Chrysler has to offer. Foundation.The majority of the artwork is by children of all ages. Photo courtesy of Chris Wright, Logos Student Newspaper Robert Bateman. Congratulations and Best Wishes to Our Recent Retirees! The following people retired from NIACC in December 2002.

Bill Baylor Dennis Mary Pat Cole Margaret Kay Haugen Mary Miller Custodial Maintenance Brunsvold Human Relations Dunbar Assessment/GED Student Learning 8 Years Mechanical Design Instructor Associate Degree Records Specialist Center Associate Technology Instructor 11 Years Nursing Instructor 24 Years 17 Years 37 Years 26 Years

Tom Oswald Mary Thede Mike Thede Dennis Vrba Jim Zirnhelt Education/Psychology Mathematics Instructor Geography/Western Natural Sciences Humanities and Instructor 10 Years Civilization Instructor Chairperson/Instructor Social Science 10 Years 15 Years 16 Years Chairperson/Instructor 10 34 Years

WINTER 2003 www.niacc.edu for alumni and friends ALUMNI ALMANAC of North Sharon (Edwards) Angela Webb ’77 of Algona, Chad Kickbush '90 of Lisa (Downing) Stahl '95, of Dr. Scott W. Nelson '98 and Iowa Area Carberry1960s'60 is presently IA, is a rural outreach victim Broken Arrow, OK, is a Wausau,WI, is the director of his wife, Jessica (Schreiber) Community teaching second grade in advocate for the Family Crisis supervisor with Williams sales and marketing for Figi’s Nelson,returned to North College Rosebud,TX. Center of North Iowa. Communications. His wife, in Marshfield,WI. Iowa to open Mason City Angela (Cooley) Kickbush Chiropractic in August of Dr. Robert Keith '60 of John A. DiMarco '79 of '89, teaches kindergarten and Sherry L. (Flugge) Carolan 2002.They have a daughter Cincinnati, OH, is a professor Mason City, IA, is a personal runs her own costume jewelry '96 was recently married and are expecting their of Otolaryngology-Head and banking officer at Wells Fargo and accessories business, Cool and is employed at Tom’s second child in the spring. Neck Surgery at the Bank. ThANG’s.They have three Family Pharmacy in New University of Cincinnati, young children. Hampton, IA. Aaron Pearson '98 was College of Medicine. 1980sMark E. Mullins '81 of Clear recently married and is a NIACC Lake, IA, has returned to Dale Nicholson '90 of Andrew Klemesrud '96 is physical education teacher and Graduates Barr Connelly '61, an All- North Iowa after living in Marion, IA, is a programmer the athletic director at coach in Rockford, IA. American basketball player at Arizona for 20 years. He is the analyst with APAC. He and Rockford Senior High in The Class of 2002 MCJC, has retired after 30 general sales manager for some other Northwood- Rockford, IA. Jesse Reimer '98 of represents 9 states and years in public education. He Stellar Industries in Garner. Kensett HS graduates started Davenport, IA, was recently 108 communities across was a teacher, counselor and a new website: Patty (Palenyk) Paul '97 married and is a personal Iowa. administrator with the Julie A. Reese '82 of Clear www.northiowasports.com. completed the Upper banker with Wells Fargo Bank. Jefferson County Public Lake, IA, is a personal banking Midwest Sales Leadership NIACC awarded 585 School system in Golden, CO. officer at Wells Fargo Bank. Merlin Schafer '91 and '93 and Management School Addie (Harmon) Rugland degrees and diplomas to of Mason City, IA is the program and is the Heritage '98 has been named public 549 students during the Ronald D. Minert, who Dawn Collins '83 earned new Auditorium Technician Club Coordinator at First relations and membership 2001-2002 school year. attended MCJC in the early her general securities license at North Iowa Area Citizens National Bank in specialist at the Mason City '60s, is the president of two years ago and is a Community College. Mason City, IA. YMCA. She and her husband, 99% of students Harley-Davidson, Inc. of Mason registered sales assistant with Kristoffer Rugland '99, live completing Career City, the largest Harley U.S. Bancorp Piper Jaffray in Kevin Sullivan '91 of Kim Price '97 of Forest City, in Northwood, IA. Programs in 2002 are dealership in Iowa. He and his Mason City, IA. Farmington, MN, was recently IA, has accepted a new employed; 92% in Iowa. brother recently opened married and is employed at position with Mercy Medical Natalie A.Tierney '98 is a Cedar River Harley-Davidson Dennis Malecek '88 is the Cross Telecom in Eden Prairie, Center-North Iowa in Mason vet assistant at City Cat Clinic 32 Career Programs in Charles City, IA. director of operations at BMC MN. City. He was previously the in Minneapolis, MN. experienced 100% Industries in St. Paul, MN. His administrator at Belmond placement. David Rinden '62 is the wife, Rhonda (Reising) Neishaun Butrick '92 is a Community Hospital. Cally (Orluske) Peterson Reverend/Clergy at the Malecek '89 teaches at South member of the Fire and '99 is manager of The Buckle Over 700 former NIACC students are currently Gethsemane Lutheran Church Washington Community Rescue Squad in Cedarburg, Bridget (Siemons) Schultz at Southbridge Mall in Mason completing their in Rochester, MN. School District in Cottage WI. She also works for a '97 is the program City, IA. bachelor’s degrees at the Grove.They make their home major law firm in the area. coordinator for the National three state universities. Phillip J. Haddy '67 is the in Hammond,WI. Coalition for Campus Michael French ‘00 is one of Sports Information Director Wilma T.Evans '92 is the Children’s Centers at the 2000sthe 170 paramedics in the More than 25,000 people for the University of Iowa. He Beth Bilyeu-Hesse '89 of community organizer for the University of Northern Iowa Greenville, SC, area. have graduated from and his wife, Elaine Clear Lake, IA, is the execu- Social Development Com- where she is working on her NIACC (or predecessor (Altmaier) Haddy, live in tive director for Forest City mission in Milwaukee,WI. master’s degree. She and her Jamie Jennings '00 is a Mason City Junior Iowa City, IA. Economic Development, Inc. husband, Chet Schultz ’93, recreation specialist at Tanager College) since the Jason A. Miller '92 of Mason live in Greene, IA. Place in Iowa City, IA. College was established Robert L. Moeller '68 is a Stacy Brocka '89 is a City, IA, is the parts manager 85 years ago. teacher at Kern High School geotechnical engineer and for Cedar River Harley- Katy Thorn DeKoter '97 of Jana (McBride) Staudt '00 in Bakersfield, CA. He retired special projects engineer for Davidson of Charles City. Spirit Lake, IA, is a registered and Troy Staudt '00 were from the Army in 1991. Allender Butzke Engineers in nurse with the WIC program. recently married. She is Urbandale, IA. Kraig Kessler '93 is an IT working at Kendell Hunt in Kathleen M. (Frank) Jones systems analyst with the Allison (Van Zante) Dubuque, IA, and he is a ‘69 of Huxley, IA, is a registrar Rene Marie Duregger '89 Social Security Administration Dhablat '98 of Mason City, history teacher at Marquette at Iowa State University. has been accepted at St. headquartered in IA, was recently married and High School in Bellevue, IA, George’s University School of Baltimore, MD. is employed by Mercy Medical where they reside. Stephen M.Anderson '72 Medicine in Grenada,West Center-North Iowa. of1970s Houston,TX, is a logistics Indies. Robert Parker '93 is an Rachel Sheriff '01 is the systems manager and world account executive for KIMT new director of nursing for wide customer operator for Scott Gratias '89 is a private Television. He and his wife, Village Oaks, an 80-unit Hewlett-Packard. He has investigator with Gratias Penni (Krueger) Parker assisted living facility in worked there 13 years. Investigations, Inc. He and his '98, live in Mason City, IA. Farmers Branch,TX. wife, Laura (Muehlstedt) Tim Leibrand '72 is the Gratias '89, live in Waukee, Susan Boekelman '94 is a IN MEMORY Pharmacy Manager at Drug IA, with their three children. registered nurse at United 1950 1993 To wn in Mason City. He has Hospital in St. Paul, MN. Gerald E. Herbener,72 Karen R. Plagge,59 worked there 25 years. Paula (Thome) Huemann August 12, 2002 October 27, 2002 '89 of Waterloo, IA, teaches at Jason Chose '95 of Ventura, Craig Hoskinson '74 of Central Middle School. IA, is an associate engineer for 1966 1996 Cletus P.Staudt,55 Carmen D. Schrader,41 Bellevue, NE, is employed by Fleetguard in Lake Mills, IA. July 4, 2002 December 28, 2002 Claas Omaha LLC as a Tammy (Steinwandt) product support manager for 1990sBryant '90 of Mason City, IA, Amy Fessler '95 is the new 1974 1997 North America. is the health promotion and guidance counselor for Rudd- Dennis J. Gilbert,47 Connie D.Adams,39 education service manager for Rockford-Marble Rock school September 10, 2002 August 22, 2002 Susan D. Janka '76 is an RN the Cerro Gordo County district. Previously, she 1978 at the Albert Lea Medical Department of Public Health. worked at the North Iowa Loren J. Hofler,47 Center-Mayo Health System. Transition Center. July 24, 2002 11

www.niacc.edu WINTER 2003 for alumni Pappajohn Announces Wellmark’s and friends Plan to Invest $5 Million in of North Start-Ups of New Iowa Businesses Iowa Area Community Encouraging entrepreneurial thinking is process of approval, new start-up still an important focus of the Pappajohn businesses with a well-documented College Entrepreneurial Centers at NIACC and business plan will be able to apply for the state universities, but the Centers funding. Locally, the loans will first be recently moved into new territory – approved by NIACC’s Pappajohn providing new businesses with direct Entrepreneurial Center and Small access to venture capital. Business Development Center and will Greetings to all Mason City Junior College and by NIACC’s Institutional Advancement Office and John Pappajohn, founder of the gain final approval from Equity Dynamics, North Iowa Area Community College alumni! mailed twice a year to alumni and friends of the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers, Pappajohn’s venture capital firm in Des See inside for You’re in good company…25,000 people have College. It is designed to provide you with news announced Wellmark Blue Cross and Moines. Lean graduated from the College during our 85-year about NIACC and keep you aware of opportunities. Blue Shield’s plan to invest $5 million in “We’re pleased to move the Pappajohn Manufacturing venture funding to help launch Iowa Centers from the original intent of history.Wow! To stay closely connected with the College, we Page 1 If you haven’t heard from the College in awhile invite you to join the NIACC Alumni Association. business start-ups through the Centers cultivating entrepreneurial ideas to at Iowa State University in Ames, the providing entrepreneurial training and (or at all) since you graduated, welcome to the Look inside for the postage paid envelope with all University of Northern Iowa in Cedar now helping with opportunities of seed Community Intouch newsletter! This publication is produced the details! Falls, the University of Iowa in Iowa City capital to move businesses forward,” College Advocacy and North Iowa Area Community Pappajohn said. “Now, the Pappajohn Page 4 College in Mason City. Each Pappajohn Centers will close the gap on funding Entrepreneurial Center will award that is so desperately needed in Iowa.” Tribute to $250,000 each year for five years. NIACC president Michael Morrison Former Non-profit Org. This investment in loans for new, viable said this initiative is vital for our Presidents U.S. Postage 500 College Drive start-up businesses that will create well- communities.“Very few issues are more PAID Pages 6-7 Mason City, IA 50401 paying jobs, moves the Pappajohn important for the North Iowa region Mason City, IA Centers into a new area of promoting than entrepreneurial and economic Change Service Requested Conferences for Permit No. 278 entrepreneurship.Through a rigorous CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 Women Page 8

Pathways to Success Pages 10

A Wise Investment - NIACC president Dr. Michael Morrison addresses area business and political leaders and media representatives at a news conference. Volume 13 • Issue 1

www.niacc.edu WINTER 2003