PRESS RELEASE: IOWA LAKES BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING EMPHASIZES GRANT GROWTH AND STUDENT IMPACT

ESTHERVILLE, IOWA – The Iowa Lakes Community College Board of Trustees met Tuesday afternoon with a spotlight on the increasing impact of grants and external funding that support student success, workforce development, and campus innovation.

Erin Dirks, Grant Writer in the Office of Planning and Development, presented a comprehensive overview of grant activity at Iowa Lakes, showcasing a 5-year total of over $3.3 million awarded to the college. These funds support a wide range of initiatives, from federal TRIO programs and workforce scholarships to local projects improving college facilities.

“Every grant we secure is a step toward expanding opportunity for students and strengthening our communities,” said Dirks. “These funds go beyond numbers—they represent lives impacted, barriers removed, and futures unlocked.

Among the highlights shared:

• TRIO Programs serve more than 960 students annually, including Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services.
• A new Department of Energy grant provides $150,000 in scholarships, internship stipends, and equipment upgrades.
• The Federal Aviation Administration helped to fund the college’s High School Aviation Program.
• Local investments through the Palo Alto County Gaming Development Grant supported wellness center upgrades and technology enhancements.

“Our goal is to align every grant proposal with the real needs of students and the evolving demands of our region,” Dirks added. “Whether it’s aviation, nursing, cultural programming, or student housing, we’re actively pursuing funding that advances both innovation and access.”

The board also received updates on graduation candidates, Last-Dollar Scholarship participation, and recent donations—including a donation from the Mark Martinez Foundation to support the Construction Technology Program.

The next regular Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Administration Building in Estherville, beginning with a work session at 4:00 p.m. and the formal meeting at 4:30 p.m.