ABOUT Iowa Lakes
find your it at Iowa lakes
Nestled in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region, Iowa Lakes Community College is your launchpad for success. With campuses in Algona, Emmetsburg, Estherville, Spencer, and Spirit Lake, we bring education closer to you—wherever you are in our five-county service area.
Iowa Lakes sets you up to transfer seamlessly to a four-year school or jump straight into a high-demand career. Here, you’ll gain the skills, hands-on training, and confidence to make your next move—fast.
Looking to level up your career? We’ve got you covered. From continuing education and vocational training to certifications and re-licensure courses, Iowa Lakes is all about lifelong learning and career-ready education that fits your life.
No matter your starting point, we make education affordable and accessible. With financial aid options and a team of dedicated faculty and staff by your side, you’ll have the support you need to achieve your goals.
Your future starts here—so why wait? Get to IT at Iowa Lakes!

Scott Stokes
President
As the President of Iowa Lakes Community College, I want to thank you for your interest in our college and for considering Iowa Lakes as you explore your options and begin your educational journey!
You will find that as a Laker, you're more than just a student – you become part of a family that focuses on helping you achieve your goals both personally and academically through a dedicated support system while receiving personalized attention from our dedicated faculty, staff, and administration.
We are proud to share with you that at Iowa Lakes, you will gain substantial experience not only for your career and academics but for life. This is part of what being Laker Proud Looks like!
Academics - We are proud to offer more than 60 nationally recognized degrees, certifications, and pre-professional programs that will allow you to start here and go anywhere. Whether your plans include transferring to a four-year college or university or you're looking to prepare for a dream job. We have the programs and resources to support you as you launch your Laker Journey.
LAKER PROUD MOMENT
Did you know that over the past 30 years, more than 72% of students enrolled at Iowa Lakes have earned a degree, diploma, or certificate? A degree from Iowa Lakes significantly impacts all areas of your life! Not only can earning your degree at Iowa Lakes mean a better salary, but it frequently leads to more opportunities.
Get involved - There's more than just studying at Iowa Lakes!
Campus Life - With more than 30 Clubs and organizations on campus, Iowa Lakes provides a wide range of opportunities in pre-professional, special interest, social, and community service groups. No matter your major, you have the chance to get involved - providing you with the opportunity to build lifelong relationships and interact with students outside of your area of study.
Start your Laker Journey today - visit our campuses, sit in on a class, meet with our dedicated faculty and staff, and you will undoubtedly feel what it is like to be Laker Proud!
I look forward to seeing you on campus!
MISSION
To provide opportunities for quality lifelong learning and promote economic development for our communities.
VISION
To be a premier center of higher education, serving as a gateway to success.
CORE VALUES




EQUITY STATEMENT
Iowa Lakes Community College provides opportunities to help all students achieve their educational goals. All students have access to fair and equitable educational opportunities, which provide knowledge and skills necessary to complete a college degree, credential, and training. Educational opportunities are provided through a variety of instructional methods, formats, and locations to accommodate students. Best practices, policies and student success metrics will be evaluated and measured to guide efforts which lead to achievement of the goal of more college graduates in less time, less money, and with better career outcomes.
Year Founded: 1967
President: Scott Stokes
School Colors: Laker Blue & Laker Gold
Mascot: Captain Jack
Employees: 376 employees
Top Graduating Programs 2023-24: Nursing, Veterinary Technician, Agribusiness Technology, Electrical Technology, and Agriculture Production Technology
Student Demographics: Female: 56.5% Male: 43.5%
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 50.12%
First-Generation Students: 38.5%
Average Age: 20.5
Residency: 85% Iowa, 12% Out-of-State, 3% International
Questions? Let's Talk
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Deloris Young VP of Administration Office Coordinator 712-362-0420 Ext: 4420 | dyoung@iowalakes.edu Administration Campus |
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Mischelle Dahna President's Office Coordinator 712-362-0434 | mdahna@iowalakes.edu Administration Campus |
Interested in learning more about Community Colleges in Iowa?

