Iowa Valley Board approves off-campus housing leases, honors long-serving Director
Deborah Jones, who retired after 17 years of service representing Director District 4.
MARSHALLTOWN – The Iowa Valley Community College District (IVCCD) Board of Directors met Wednesday for its annual organizational meeting, taking action to support continued student enrollment at Marshalltown Community College (MCC) while recognizing leadership transitions and completing annual board appointments.
Prior to the meeting, the District hosted a reception honoring Deborah Jones, who retired after 17 years of service representing Director District 4. During the reception, Dr. Anne Howsare Boyens, President of IVCCD, and Board President Joanna Hofer recognized Jones for her leadership, dedication, and long-standing commitment to the District. In addition to her service as a trustee, Jones was acknowledged as a trusted colleague and friend whose relationships and guidance strengthened the board and the communities it serves.
During the meeting, the board approved short-term and long-term lease agreements for off-campus apartment units in Marshalltown. The action responds to strong enrollment growth at MCC, including the expansion of athletic program rosters, which has resulted in tight quarters for student dorms. The approved leases with STR Ventures LLC will ensure students have access to housing while the District works with an architect to develop long-term plans to expand student housing capacity on campus.
The Board also approved a 260F Iowa Jobs Training Agreement with Packaging Corporation of America (PCA). The agreement will support workforce training for PCA employees at the company’s Marshalltown and Conrad facilities, including safety, technical, and skills-based training. The project reflects the District’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the regional workforce through employer-driven training partnerships.
The Board also welcomed Jackie Pippin, who was sworn in to represent Director District 4. Pippin previously served on the Board from 2021 to 2023 and brings valuable experience and familiarity with the District. Additionally, Joanna Hofer, representing Director District 6, was re-elected and sworn in to begin her ninth year of service on the board. Amber Danielson, representing Director District 3, was also re-elected and sworn in and will continue into her third year of service.
As part of the organizational meeting, the board completed its annual officer appointments. Abigail Casey was sworn in as Board Secretary, and Amanda Bloomquist was sworn in as Board Treasurer.