News - Iowa Lakes Community College

News - Iowa Lakes Community College http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?show=rss http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?show=rss Iowa Lakes Community College en-US Wed, 19 Jun 2013 21:58:48 +0000 Wed, 19 Jun 2013 21:58:48 +0000 Copyright 2013 Iowa Lakes Community College. All rights reserved. cpeaslee@ilcc.cc.ia.us (Managing Editor) cpeaslee@ilcc.cc.ia.us (Webmaster) Global Reach News Aggregator v0.96 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Trustees Meet in Spencer to Learn of Benefits of SBDC to Area Businesses http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?trustees_meet_in_spencer_to_learn_of_benefits_of_sbdc_to_area_businesses&show=news&newsID=16868 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?trustees_meet_in_spencer_to_learn_of_benefits_of_sbdc_to_area_businesses&show=news&newsID=16868 Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 The Trustees of Iowa Lakes Community College met at the Spencer campus Tuesday afternoon to learn about academic programs at the campus and what the Small Business Development Center does for economic development in this region of the state.

Mary Faber, Director of the Spencer campus, mentioned the upgrades in campus facilities and then focused on the importance of the Allied Health Advisory Boards.

“The members of these boards are so valuable to us, because they help us align our academic programs with the standards of the working world,” Faber said.

She reported that the input of these advisory boards is utilized to fashion curriculum so that students have the skills needed to be members of a strong workforce. One of the Spencer programs –Massage Therapy – was expanded to the Algona campus this summer.

Faber then introduced Kelly McCarty, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) which is based at the Spencer campus.

McCarty works with entrepreneurs in 10 counties in northwest Iowa, providing practical, hands-on assistance to all types of businesses – from start-ups to 500 employee firms, to companies with new and promising technologies.

The college and SBDC have been partners in economic development for more than 25 years, assisting hundreds of aspiring and existing entrepreneurs in starting or growing their businesses.

McCarty shared statewide statistics along with specific data from his office. Since 2007, the Iowa Small Business Development Centers statewide have counseling 15,172 clients, creating or saving 9,372 jobs. That work gave birth to 908 new businesses, growing their sales by some $180 million and attracting over $330 million in new capital.

“This year from October 2012 through May 2013 – this center has counseled 137 clients, saw 13 new businesses started creating 80 new jobs and retaining 25 jobs,” said McCarty. “That attracted new capital of $4.4 million and saw sales grow by $3.3 million.”

McCarty’s office is one of 15 regional business assistance centers in the state.

“The Northwest Iowa SBDC offers continued assistance in marketing, recordkeeping and general business management consulting,” commented McCarty.

Services are free, confidential and customized to the needs of each business person. In addition, McCarty offers a series of seminars, workshops and entrepreneurial development activities.

The SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

In other business Tuesday afternoon, Clark Marshall, Executive Director of Economic Development and Continuing Education, discussed the 260E New Jobs Training Project for Simonsen Iron Works. The Trustees voted to transfer the training agreement to Thurston Manufacturing, the company which purchased the Spencer plant in mid-May.

An update on several projects was given by Delaine Hiney, Executive Director of Facilities Management. Contractors are drilling the geo-thermal wells at the Sustainable Energy Resource Technology Building in Estherville – and preparatory work for the new swine facility at the College Farm Lab is moving forward.

Bob L’Heureux, Vice President of Administration, presented the fees for the Iowa Community College Online Consortium classes along with Ed-to-Go tuition. The Trustees approved the fees.

The Trustees learned of a new initiative to increase student recruitment and retention from Jolene Rogers, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement. The office teamed with the Admissions office to contact recent Iowa Lakes graduates via an electronic post card. So far, 19 referrals have been made.

In other business, the Trustees received general committee updates.

The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for Tuesday, July 16 in Algona.

Kelly McCarty, Director of the Northwest Iowa Small Business Development Center, talked with Jane Nolan Goeken, Iowa Lakes Trustee, after the meeting Tuesday afternoon in Spencer.

]]> Iowa Lakes Community College Foundation’s Kossuth County Scholarship Golf Outing a Success http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_community_college_foundations_kossuth_county_scholarship_golf_outing_a_success&show=news&newsID=16837 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_community_college_foundations_kossuth_county_scholarship_golf_outing_a_success&show=news&newsID=16837 Thu, 13 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Iowa Lakes Community College Foundation hosted the Kossuth County Scholarship Golf Outing on Friday, June 7, at Spring Valley Golf Course in Livermore.

Participants had the opportunity to take part in games, contests and raffles throughout the afternoon to help raise scholarship funds. All proceeds will benefit scholarships for students residing in Kossuth County to attend Iowa Lakes Community College.

This year’s event featured two hole-in-one contests. A $10,000 Hole-in-One contest was sponsored by Helmers Insurance of Algona. A second Hole-in-One Contest was offered by Bob Boland Ford of Bancroft for a two year lease on a new Ford F-150 Pickup. Unfortunately, there were no winners on the hole-in-one contests this year.

Raffle tickets were sold at the event for an iPad2, and Steve Pelzer was drawn as the winner.

The flight winners for the event were: First Flight – Iowa Lakes Team headed by Scott Stokes; Second Flight – State Line Coop Team headed by Jay Richter; Third Fight – Northwest Team headed by Sara Mix.

Winners of the contests included: Longest Drive – Todd Sewick and Sara Mix; Longest Putt – Dan Lussenhop and Erin Rogers; Closest to the Pin – Tim Johnston and Amanda Brodin.

Special thanks to the event sponsors: Ag Partners; Algona Municipal Utilities; Algona Plumbing and Heating; American Glass Co.; Algona Publishing; Asgrow and Dekalb Dealers; Avera Holy Family Hospital; Bank Midwest; Chad Anderson Pioneer Sales; Cozzini Inc.; Farmers State Bank; Heartland Mutual Insurance Association; Helmers Insurance Agency, Inc.; Holiday Express; Hy-Vee Food Store; Iowa State Bank; KICD-AM / CD 107.7-FM / LITE 104.9-FM; KILR Radio; Kingston Life and Health; KLGA Radio; KOFAB; KUOO / Q102 / Y100; Max Yield; Motor Inn; Northwest Bank; Perky Parrot; Pharmacists Mutual; PRO Coop; Security State Bank; Snap On; Spencer Agronomy; StateLine Coop; Tom Eischen Seed and Sales; The Water Connection; West Bend Journal; West Iowa Bank; and, Wild Rose Casino and Resort.

Donors for the Silent Auction included: Algona Marine and Sport; Bloom; Brown’s Shoe Fit; Bucher Bros. RV; Diamonds Clothing Store; Innovations Salon and Spa; Jensen Chiropractic; The Market; North Kossuth Golf Course; Nyman’s TV; Redings Gravel & Excavating; and, River Road Golf Course. Area businesses or individuals wishing more information on this or other scholarship events call Tony Condon at 800-242-5106 ext. 4425 or visit www.iowalakes.edu/events.

First Place Winners

Second Place Winners

Third Place Winners

]]> Iowa Lakes Foundation to Host Dickinson County Scholarship Luau http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_foundation_to_host_dickinson_county_scholarship_luau&show=news&newsID=16808 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_foundation_to_host_dickinson_county_scholarship_luau&show=news&newsID=16808 Mon, 10 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Put on your grass skirts and sunglasses and join us the Iowa Lakes Community College Foundation’s 9th Annual Dickinson County Scholarship Luau. The Luau will take place on Thursday, June 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the tropical Barefoot Bar on Lake Okoboji.

Guests will enjoy a Luau Barbeque Meal served by Cabernet Catering of Spencer beginning at 7 p.m. The evening will include karaoke, games, raffle and silent auction; followed by the announcement of the raffle winner at 8 p.m. (need not be present to win). Proceeds from the Luau generate scholarships for Dickinson County residents to attend Iowa Lakes.

Prior to June 18, tickets are $25 per person; $30 per person after June 18. Don’t miss your chance to win a two hour cruise for you and up to 39 friends on a Glass Bottom Boat donated by Parks Marina. Raffle and event tickets may be purchased in advance at the Iowa Lakes Spirit Lake campus or by contacting Tony Condon, Iowa Lakes Event Coordinator, at 712-362-0425. Raffle tickets will also be sold at the event, and purchasers need not be present to win.

Sponsors to date include: Ag Partners LLC; Avera Holy Family Hospital; Bank Midwest; Beck Engineering, Inc.; Buy Rite Foods; Chad Anderson Pioneer Sales; Dekalb and Asgrow Dealers; Carlson-Sanderson Real Estate; Dyno’s Convenience Stores; Holiday Express Corporation; Hy-Vee Food Stores; Iowa Great Lakes Rotary; KICD-AM / CD 107.7-FM / LITE 104.9-FM; KILR Radio; Kingston Health & Life; KUOO / Y 100 / Q 102; Max Yield; Motor Inn of Spirit Lake; Northwest Bank; Parks Marina/Barefoot Bar; PRO Coop; Southwest Coaches Inc; Spencer Agronomy; Stateline Coop; Tom Eichen Seed and Sales; and, Wild Rose Casino & Resort.

Businesses or individuals wishing to sponsor, donate items for the silent auction or purchase tickets for the event may contact Tony Condon, Event Coordinator, at 712-362-0425 or tcondon@iowalakes.edu or visit the Iowa Lakes website, www.iowalakes.edu/foundations.

]]> Summer Orientation/Registration Days Planned at Iowa Lakes http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?summer_orientationregistration_days_planned_at_iowa_lakes&show=news&newsID=16756 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?summer_orientationregistration_days_planned_at_iowa_lakes&show=news&newsID=16756 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 The summer months are just beginning, but at Iowa Lakes is already anticipating the arrival of students in the fall.

Orientation days are scheduled on the Emmetsburg, Estherville, and Spencer campuses during June and July. The days are specialized to the specific program which students have applied for.

Orientation days are created for new, incoming stuents who will begin classes in the Fall 2013 semester. The Emmetsburg and Estherville orientation days last from 9:45 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. The Spencer orientation day will begin at 9:45 a.m. and will wrap up by approximately 1 p.m. Students are encouraged to stay for the entire day. If a student needs to take a placement test, or wishes to re-test for better scores, they are asked to arrive at 8 a.m.

For those who are starting in the summer term, but would still like to attend orientation, feel free to call the admissions office at 1-800-521-5054 and request an invitation, because, "If you have not attended Iowa Lakes in the past, this is a day designed for you," said Molly Struve, Admissions Counselor.

The day includes sessions that provide information about all of the student services offered at Iowa Lakes, for example: housing, athletics, band/choir, tutoring, and academic counseling. There is also a session on financial aid with individuals present to answer questions. After lunch, students will meet with their academic advisor to schedule classes for the fall semester.

Struve stated, "Students will leave orientation day with a large amount of information about Iowa Lakes and with a class schedule in their hand.”

The orientation days are held from June 10-June 20, with make-up days being held on July 24 and July 25.

“The date a student attends is based on which program they plan to enroll in. Check our website or call our admissions office for the detailed schedule of days.”

Also, "Students are encouraged to RSVP for Orientation at www.iowalakes.edu/admissions then click the Orientation & Registration Day link on the left side of the page,” said Struve. “You can also RSVP by sending back the postcard that was included in mailed invites. Parents are more than welcome to attend as well."

For questions or more information, contact Molly Struve at 712-362-7919, or visit www.iowalakes.edu/admissions to view the 2013 Orientation/ Registration Dates for the Emmetsburg, Estherville and Spencer campuses.

]]> Iowa Lakes Foundation to Host Clay County Golf Outing http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_foundation_to_host_clay_county_golf_outing&show=news&newsID=16755 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_foundation_to_host_clay_county_golf_outing&show=news&newsID=16755 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Area golfers are invited to attend the Iowa Lakes Community College Foundation’s Clay County Scholarship Golf Outing Friday, June 14, at the Spencer Golf and Country Club. The event features an 18-hole, four-person best ball tournament format. Registration and lunch will begin at 11 a.m. followed by a noon shotgun start. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in games, contests and raffles through the afternoon. All event proceeds benefit scholarships for students residing in Clay County to attend Iowa Lakes Community College.

Raffle tickets are now available and will be sold at the event for a Treager Grill donated by Arnold Motor Supply. Winner will be drawn during a short awards program following play and the winner need not be present to win. Tickets may be purchased at the Iowa Lakes Spencer campus or by calling Iowa Lakes Event Coordinator, Tony Condon, at 800-242-5106 ext. 4425.

Sponsors for the event to date include: Arnold Motor Supply, LLP; Avera Holy Family Hospital; Bank Midwest; Campbell, Higgins & Mummert, P.C.; Community Bank and Insurance; Cotton Grave Farm Management; Dyno’s Convenience Stores; Farmers Savings Bank; Farmers Trust and Savings Bank; Holiday Express Corporation; JCL Solutions; KICD-AM / CD 107.7-FM / LITE 104.9-FM; KILR Radio; Kingston Life & Health; KUOO / Y 100 / Q 102; Northwest Bank; Spencer Daily Reporter; Spencer Municipal Utilities; State Bank; Wild Rose Casino and Resort; Williams & Co., and Wyfells Hybrids.

Area businesses or individuals wishing to join in sponsoring or participating in this event should contact Tony Condon at 800-242-5106 ext. 4425 or tcondon@iowalakes.edu or by visiting the Iowa Lakes website, www.iowalakes.edu/events.

]]> Summer Jazz Camp 2013 Concerts Announced http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?summer_jazz_camp_2013_concerts_announced&show=news&newsID=16754 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?summer_jazz_camp_2013_concerts_announced&show=news&newsID=16754 Tue, 04 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Five concerts will be held during the 33rd Annual Iowa Lakes Community College Reggie Schive Summer Jazz Camp next week and the public is invited to attend.

The concerts will be Monday through Thursday, June 10-13, and will feature the camp headliners and the camp participants. The headliners will be Tony Gulizia, Joey Gulizia, Roger Neumann, Andy Hall, CJ Kocher, Michael Gurciullo, Dan Cassidy, and Scott Hesse.

The concert schedule is as follows:

Monday, June 10 – Headliners Concert – 7 p.m. at the Thoreson Memorial Park Shelter House: 6th Ave N., Estherville. Bring your own lawn chair for this free concert in the park!
Tuesday, June 11 – Headliners Concert – 7 p.m. at the Pearson Lakes Art Center - Pomerantz Hall, 2201 Highway 71 N., Okoboji. Tickets are required and sell out early! Call 712-332-8345 or visit www.lakesart.org to purchase tickets.
Wednesday, June 12 – Headliners Concert – 7 p.m. at The Inn at Okoboji, 3301 Lakeshore Drive, Okoboji. Tickets purchased at the door for $10 and a limited menu is available for an additional cost. For more information or reservations call 712-332-2113.
Thursday, June 13 – Student Combo Concert - 3:30 p.m.; Student Big Band Concert with Headliners - 6:30 p.m. at the Iowa Lakes Community College Estherville campus. Admission is free, for more information call 712-362-8345.
Thursday, June 13 – Headliners Concert – approximately 9 p.m. (following the student concerts) at Little Swan Lake Winery, 1350 320th Ave, Estherville (just north of Superior). Reservations are recommended, call 712-858-4592 or visit www.lslwinery.com.

The jazz camp is a non-profit, five-day, educational jazz camp held at the Estherville campus of Iowa Lakes Community College. For more information on the Jazz Camp and the headliners, please visit the college’s Web site: www.iowalakes.edu/music and click on the ‘Jazz Camp’ link on the side of the page.

]]> 9th Annual Lakes Health Conference: “It’s News to Me” will Feature Steve Ford http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?9th_annual_lakes_health_conference_its_news_to_me_will_feature_steve_ford&show=news&newsID=16727 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?9th_annual_lakes_health_conference_its_news_to_me_will_feature_steve_ford&show=news&newsID=16727 Mon, 03 Jun 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Steve Ford

Area health professionals will have the opportunity to gain new perspectives on topics such as cyberbullying, cultural diversity, breast cancer and coping with the after effects of natural disasters at the 9th Annual Lakes Health Conference which will be held June 6-7, 2013, at Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center at Lake Okoboji.

Steve Ford, actor and son of the late President Gerald Ford will headline the conference with his unique perspective on life as the President’s son. The presentation encompasses a broad range of fascinating subjects such as being 18 years old and having 10 secret service agents as constant companions. He will also talk about his father’s pardon of President Nixon, assassination attempts on his father’s life and his mother’s bouts with alcoholism and breast cancer.

“This year’s theme and the topics to be covered provide a broad spectrum of information which can be used both professionally and personally,” said Rosie Coleman, one of the organizers of the event.

The conference will once again be held at Arrowwood Resort in Okoboji, Iowa and will begin at noon on June 6 and conclude on Friday, June 7.

As in the past, the event is co-sponsored by Iowa Lakes Community College and Northwest Iowa Community College in Sheldon.

More information on the topics planned for the conference will be released soon. Participants are encouraged to watch for information about ‘early bird’ discount registration.

Questions regarding the conference should be directed to Rosemary Coleman, Iowa Lakes Community College Health Programmer, 800-242-5108, ext. 5227, (rcoleman@iowalakes.edu) or Marilyn Stille, Northwest Iowa Community College, Continuing Education Coordinator, 800-352-4907, ext. 143, (mrstille@nwicc.edu).

]]> Get Jazzed at Summer Camp http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?get_jazzed_at_summer_camp&show=news&newsID=16684 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?get_jazzed_at_summer_camp&show=news&newsID=16684 Wed, 29 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 The 33rd Annual Iowa Lakes Community College Reggie Schive Summer Jazz Camp will be held on the Estherville campus June 9-13.

The camp includes five fun-filled, exciting and educationally packed days with some of the finest jazz educators in the country. Students in grades seven through college and older will have the opportunity to study in private lessons, combos and big bands, improvisation, theory and software; as well as listen to the headliners’ jazz mastery during master classes and evening concerts.

“The Headliners and staff of the University of Okoboji Summer Jazz Camp truly believe in what they do and strive to teach and share with students their years of knowledge and experience,” said Carol Ayres, Camp Organizer and Professor at Iowa Lakes.

Headliners include Tony and Joey Gulizia, Roger Neumann, Andy Hall, CJ Kocher, Michael Gurciullo, Dan Cassidy, and Scott Hesse who hail from and perform everywhere from Los Angeles to New York City.

The Iowa Lakes Community College Music Department in Estherville will be hosting the main part of the camp. This location provides students with air-conditioning in rehearsal rooms, dorm rooms and the student center. The students' week-long study culminates in two performances on Thursday.

The Headliners will perform Monday-Thursday evenings featuring many different styles of music: Big Band, Contemporary, Latin, Dixie Land and more. Come and enjoy one or all of them! The concert schedule is available at www.iowalakes.edu/music/jazz_camp.

For more information, please visit www.iowalakes.edu/music, then click on the “jazz camp” link, or call 712-330-3647. Those interested can register for camp online or call to receive registration by mail.

Camp instructor/musician Tony Gulizia with student participants.

]]> Iowa Lakes Community College Awards Certificates to SAVE Program Participants http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_community_college_awards_certificates_to_save_program_participants&show=news&newsID=16683 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_community_college_awards_certificates_to_save_program_participants&show=news&newsID=16683 Wed, 29 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Certificates were awarded to 16 individuals in the SAVE (Student Alternative Vocational Education) Program on Thursday, May 2, in Emmetsburg.

The Commencement ceremonies included a welcome from Tom Brotherton, Executive Dean of the Emmetsburg campus, as well as student introductions from Michelle Kogel, Coordinator of the SAVE program.

Student speaker was Samuel Joseph Dieken from George. He thanked his family and his high school for supporting him in his desire to continue his education.

Certificates in the Housekeeping/Facilities Specialist program as well as the Helping Careers program were conferred by Valerie Newhouse, President of Iowa Lakes.

Those graduating included: Jonathan Brewbaker, Indianola; Andrew Brown, Fonda; John Cassell, Altoona; Isaiah Clarke, Elmore, Minn.; Sam Dieken, George; Nick Green, Humboldt; Brettyn Grover, Cresco; Natasha Hodson, Algona; Jessica Hovaldt, Larchwood; Christina Hungate, Eagle Grove; Luke Irlbeck, Audubon; Elizabeth Mayer, St. Ansgar; Samantha Miller, Spencer; Hollie North, Glenwood; Olyvia Roe, Charles City; and, John Ryan, Fonda.

The SAVE program started in 1993 and has served many students throughout Iowa and South Dakota.

SAVE is a secondary transitional preparatory program for students on a current Individualized Education Plan (IEP). It teaches employability and independent life skills training as well as group and social skills. In addition, students gain math and reasoning skills, plus they discover technology and organizational skills. The SAVE Program works with about 55 students yearly who are enrolled in a variety of college programs throughout the Emmetsburg campus.

SAVE staff members who worked with the students include: Michelle Kogel, Program Coordinator; Ryan Eick, Program Instructor; Nichole Foxhoven, Program Instructor; Lori Nielsen, Special Needs Facilitator; and Kathy Strand, Program Tutor.

Sam Dieken, George, gave the commencement address at the graduation ceremonies in Emmetsburg May 2.

]]> Retirement Reception Planned for June 10 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?retirement_reception_planned_for_june_10&show=news&newsID=16682 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?retirement_reception_planned_for_june_10&show=news&newsID=16682 Wed, 29 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 A retirement reception will be held in Spirit Lake on Monday, June 10, for two long-time employees of Iowa Lakes Community College.

Marilyn Fleming, Assistant to the Campus Supervisor at Spirit Lake, has worked for the college for 17 years. She started in Continuing Education at the Estherville Campus, and proctored classes in Spirit Lake before accepting the Assistant position. Marilyn plans to spend more time with her grandchildren, give her flower garden more attention, and travel with her husband.

Ray Schley, Custodial/Maintenance at the Spirit Lake campus, has worked for the college for 12 years. The staff and students credit him with keeping the campus clean and beautiful for everyone. Ray plans to visit family in Arizona, Minnesota, and Chicago as well as watch more baseball.

“Both retirees have been valuable to the Spirit Lake Campus, and will be greatly missed,” commented Heather Asmus, Spirit Lake Campus Supervisor.

Others retiring from Iowa Lakes this spring include Clark Marshall, Executive Director of Continuing Education and Economic Development, Estherville; Sandra Naig, College Bookstore Coordinator, Emmetsburg; Colleen Peltz, Developmental Studies Professor, Emmetsburg; Nancy Schoenewe, Communications Professor, Spencer; Ann VanDeWalle, Food Service, Estherville; Augie Von Behren, Custodial/ Maintenance, Estherville; Bernie Wise, Director of Nursing & Health Education, Emmetsburg; Al Wudel, Television Center Engineer, Estherville; Jeanne Wunder, Allied Health Professor, Algona; Steve Farnsworth, Welding Faculty, Emmetsburg; Greg Poe, Farm Supervisor, Emmetsburg; Greg Reimer, Associate Professor of Information Technology, Emmetsburg; Bob Roethler, Emmetsburg Housing Coordinator; Lynn Dodge, Success Center Professor, Estherville; Linda Kautz, Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Students, Estherville; Sandy Naig, Food Service Coordinator, Estherville; Diana Refsell, Associate Professor/Counselor, Emmetsburg; Nancy Schendel, Math Professor, Estherville; Pam Tschetter, Journalism & Photography Associate Professor, Estherville; and Jim Weipert, Sociology Professor, Estherville.

The reception will be at the Spirit Lake Campus, room 129 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM with a short program at 2:30 P.M.

Former and current students, community members as well as current and past college faculty and staff are invited to attend the reception.

]]> Final Round NJCAA Men's Division 2 National Golf Tournament http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?final_round_njcaa_mens_division_2_national_golf_tournament&show=news&newsID=16658 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?final_round_njcaa_mens_division_2_national_golf_tournament&show=news&newsID=16658 Fri, 24 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Iowa Lakes' Men's Golf Brandon Klein wrapped up his National Tournament Friday afternoon. Klein fired an 81 to finish the tournament at 310 (22 over par). His rounds were 75-78-76-81. Klein is the 20th male golfer to qualify for the National Tournament for Iowa Lakes since 1997.

"It's been a privilege to watch Brandon play and compete as a Laker. It was good to see him go out on top as a National Qualifier. He's going to be very successful in the future as he continues his studies at South Dakota State University. I wish him and the rest of the players best of luck in their lives. They will always be Lakers." -- Coach Soper

]]> Wind Academy Group, LLC, and Iowa Lakes Community College Sign Cooperative Training Agreement http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?wind_academy_group_llc_and_iowa_lakes_community_college_sign_cooperative_training_agreement&show=news&newsID=16651 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?wind_academy_group_llc_and_iowa_lakes_community_college_sign_cooperative_training_agreement&show=news&newsID=16651 Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 A Cooperative Training Agreement has been signed which will expand the influence of the Wind Energy and Turbine Technology program at Iowa Lakes Community College to the Republic of Turkey.

Ethan Hunter, Co-Founder and President of Wind Academy Group, LLC, and Valerie Newhouse, College President, signed the agreement on Wednesday, May 22, following approval of the Board of Trustees of Iowa Lakes. Iowa Lakes instructors will teach industry professionals from the Republic of Turkey who will prepare technicians to work on turbines in Turkey through non-credit training.

The Wind Energy program at Iowa Lakes is touted across the nation as the premier academic program to prepare technicians for a career within the dynamic wind industry and is one of the first colleges to achieve the American Wind Energy Association Seal of Approval.

The agreement signed on Wednesday provides for a systematic approach to implementing a Train-the-Trainer program. Industry professionals from Turkey will spend 12 weeks at the college gaining knowledge about the characteristics of a successful wind technician.

While in Estherville, the trainers will learn how to engage and assess the future technicians in Turkey through this immersion experience and return to their country to prepare a wind energy workforce.

Wind Energy program instructors will continue to serve as mentors to the trainers as the Wind Academy-Turkey is launched by Hunter.

]]> Vet Tech Program at Iowa Lakes Receives Accreditation http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?vet_tech_program_at_iowa_lakes_receives_accreditation&show=news&newsID=16649 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?vet_tech_program_at_iowa_lakes_receives_accreditation&show=news&newsID=16649 Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 The Veterinary Technician program of Iowa Lakes Community College has received accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association – Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (AVMA-CVTEA).

The provisional accreditation was the next step for the program which started in the fall of 2011.

To reach the accreditation, the program went through a thorough self-evaluation and site visit by a team of experts in February.

“The visit not only included an inspection of program facilities to ensure compliance with regulations, but there was an evaluation/review of program curricula,” said Thomas Brotherton, Executive Dean of the Emmetsburg campus.

The facilities had to meet specific climate and animal health regulations for AVMA-CVTEA approval.

“In addition, the evaluators studied the academic services available for students, and assessed library and other resources as well as meeting with the program’s Advisory Board,” Brotherton said.

While the first students graduated this spring and will now take the state and national certification exams this summer, Dr. David Rentschler is already setting new goals.

“Our next step for the Vet Tech program is to continue work toward full accreditation and focus on student success,” said Dr. Rentschler, the instructor and coordinator of the program.

The next visit by the AVMA-CVTEA team will be in five years.

At the end of the semester, the first graduating class (Spring 2013) in the Veterinary Technician program at Iowa Lakes visited the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha.

]]> Iowa Lakes Students Selected to Attend Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_students_selected_to_attend_okoboji_entrepreneurial_institute&show=news&newsID=16650 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_students_selected_to_attend_okoboji_entrepreneurial_institute&show=news&newsID=16650 Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Four students from Iowa Lakes Community College will participate in this year’s Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute. This is the eighth year for the institute and the seventh time students from Iowa Lakes have participated in the August event.

Students include: Chayton VanMaasdam of Spirit Lake, a Business Administration major who expects to graduate in the spring of 2013. Also expecting to graduate in the spring of 2013 with a major in Business Administration and Management is Nate Samp from Algona. Melissa Pope-Thongvanh from Spanaway, Wash. is looking to graduate in December of 2013 from the Spencer campus with a Business Management Degree. Alyssa Schroeder from Emmetsburg, who is an Accounting Specialist major, is looking forward to graduating in May of 2014.

The conference will be held at the Iowa Great Lakes from August 4th -9th. Participants attend educational seminars on entrepreneurship and work in teams to complete a computer simulation to start a company. Attendees also have a chance to network with some of northwest Iowa’s finest entrepreneurs as well as earn three college credits.

Both Schroeder and VanMaasdam said that is was one of their professors, Lecia Berven, who helped motivate them to apply for the Institute.

“I decided to apply for the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute because I wanted to gain the experience,” said Schroeder. “Lecia told us that it was a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, make great contacts, and to learn about what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur in today’s economy.”

Schroeder hopes to gain the knowledge it takes to enter the job world as a young entrepreneur.

While VanMaasdam added, “A class presentation and video presentation by Lecia and my overall interest in entrepreneurship prompted me to sign up for the institute.”

As a non-traditional aged student, Pope-Thongvanh is looking forward to the possibility of gaining new knowledge at the institute.

“I want to learn how to open my own business, and I plan on doing just that after I get my Master’s degree,” she said.

Samp expects to gain “new relationships, prospective business partners, and experience,” while attending this year.

The Okoboji Institute is a cooperative effort of the Iowa Department of Economic Development, the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers at the University of Iowa, Iowa State University and University of Northern Iowa as well as the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation, Iowa Lakeside Lab, Buena Vista University and Iowa Lakes Community College.


Alyssa Schroeder	Chayton VanMaasdam	Melissa Pope-Thongvanh	Nate Samp

]]> Iowa Lakes Business Students Travel to Florida for National Leadership Conference http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_business_students_travel_to_florida_for_national_leadership_conference&show=news&newsID=16648 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?iowa_lakes_business_students_travel_to_florida_for_national_leadership_conference&show=news&newsID=16648 Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 Top students from Iowa Lakes Community College attended the Business Professionals of America (BPA) 2013 National Leadership Conference, “Uncover Your Magic,” in Orlando, Fla., May 8-12, 2013. Eight representatives from Iowa Lakes attended along with over 5,000 other conference delegates from across the nation. Students participated in national level business skills competitions, workshops, general sessions and the national officer candidate campaigns and elections. Besides having the opportunity to excel, they were able to experience the city of Orlando.

“The conference was a culmination of a years’ worth of business education and training which students from Iowa Lakes had received,” said chapter advisor, Debra Jones, the Business and Office Specialist Professor at Iowa Lakes.

Iowa Lakes had great representation with the Presentation Management Team of Denise Theesfeld from Emmetsburg, Becky Rose from Lake City, Alecia Lindell from Spirit Lake and Paige Van Voorst from Algona receiving 3rd place overall; while Laurie Conlon of Spencer placed 3rd individually in Presentation Management, and Paige Van Voorst also received Honorable Mention in the Human Resources Management competition. Also in attendance were Crystal Long from Spencer, Hayley Myers from Emmetsburg and Michael Koester from Paullina.

Business Professionals of America is a national organization for middle school, high school, and college students preparing for careers in business and information technology. The organization’s activities and programs complement classroom instruction by giving students practical experience through application of the skills learned at college. It also acts as a cohesive agent in the nationwide networking of education and business & industry. BPA is contributing to the preparation of a world-class workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic and technological skills.

“We are proud of the skill level of our students here at Iowa Lakes and would like to thank those that assist BPA with its endeavors through financial support from corporations and companies including AICPA, MarketPad.biz and Certiport, who sponsor BPA’s National Leadership Conference, and member career building programs and scholarships,” Jones added.

]]> Trustees Learn of Options Available to Help Residents Improve Job Status through GAP Tuition Funding http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?trustees_learn_of_options_available_to_help_residents_improve_job_status_through_gap_tuition_funding&show=news&newsID=16614 http://iowalakes.edu/news__events/?trustees_learn_of_options_available_to_help_residents_improve_job_status_through_gap_tuition_funding&show=news&newsID=16614 Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000 The Trustees of Iowa Lakes Community College met in Spirit Lake Tuesday afternoon and learned of a new program which provides financial assistance to individuals who are under-employed and want to upgrade their skills.

Shauna Donovan, Business Programmer for Iowa Lakes, spoke to the Trustees about the new GAP Tuition funding. Through funding from the Iowa Legislature, the GAP program provides tuition assistance for non-credit programs which are considered ‘in demand’ jobs as determined by area employment needs. At Iowa Lakes, the programs include Certified Nurse Aid (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced EMT, Medication Aide, Activity Coordinator, Class A CDL/Truck Driving and Welding.

“So far, our biggest success has been our CNA program,” said Donovan. “The certificates approved for GAP are ‘in demand’ careers. These candidates are getting their certificates and walking out the door and finding positions – most of them locally.”

To be eligible to receive the funding, an applicant must have an income that does not exceed 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines; must complete an application and provide income verification; take the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC); and interview someone who is currently working in his or her field of interest.

Donovan reported that other career certificates – such as Computer Technology, Office Technology and Graphic Design – are being developed with a target date of fall for implementation.

Bob L’Heureux, Vice President of Administration, discussed several items with the Trustees. A public hearing was held and the Trustees approved a resolution authorizing and approving the preliminary official statement for a capital loan note to be used for the renovation of the Sustainable Energy Resource Technology (SERT) building on the Estherville campus. The building will house the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) program and the new Water Quality program as well as industry training.

In addition, tuition and fees for the 2013-2014 college year were approved by the Trustees. Student tuition for Iowa (and Minnesota) residents will be $149 per credit hour. Non-Residents and International students will pay $160 per credit hour. Mandatory fees are not changing. Fees for various programs were adjusted as needed.

And, L’Heureux received approval to use a firm to provide external management of the college’s computer networking system.

Mark Gruwell, Executive Dean of Instruction and Development, presented a list of 564 graduates from spring commencement and it was officially approved by the Trustees. The board also approved an agreement with Wind Academy Turkey to provide industrial, non-credit, train-the-trainer education to wind technicians from the Republic of Turkey.

And, Gruwell presented a list of applications for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) Scale-Up grants which was approved by the Trustees. The Northwest Iowa STEM Hub received 270 applications – out of nearly 900 statewide – for Scale-Up fund projects. The Northwest STEM Advisory Board met in late April to evaluate the applications and make the funding decisions which were presented to the Trustees Tuesday. All recipients have been notified and a list of the accepted applications is posted online at www.iowalakes.edu/stem. Funding of all grants for FY 14 is pending legislative approval.

Delaine Hiney, Executive Director of Facilities Management, received permission from the Trustees to request quotes for new welding equipment which is being purchased through the Iowa–Advanced Manufacturing (I-AM) grant which is using U.S. Department of Labor funds from the Trade Adjustment Act Community College Career Training (TAACCCT) federal grant.

She also updated the board on progress to demolish the old swine facility at the Farm Laboratory while recycling as much material as possible and following Department of Natural Resources policies and procedures.

In other business, Hiney shared that the college can save about $8,000 by placing a steel exterior on the SERT building in Estherville instead of using expensive paint.

Also during the meeting, the Trustees accepted a piece of property at Gateway North in Spencer which had been given back to the college from a former owner.

Jolene Rogers, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, gave a review of the process of awarding scholarships this past spring. She also outlined upcoming events which include the Kossuth County Golf event at Spring Valley Course in Livermore on June 7; the Clay County Golf Outing at the Spencer Golf and Country Club June 14; and the Dickinson County Luau at Parks Marina on June 20.

The College Trustees also reviewed – and approved – the new district boundaries for the Board which is required every 10 years following the release of new census data.

The next meeting of the Iowa Lakes Board of Trustees will be Tuesday, June 18 at the Spencer campus of Iowa Lakes.

Shauna Donovan shared information on the new GAP Tuition Assistance funding which is being implemented at Iowa Lakes to help individuals earn a certificate to gain employment in areas which are ‘in demand’ locally.

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