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Iowa Valley Community College District (IVCCD) recognized employees for their years of service and celebrated outstanding contributions with Iowa Valley Impact Awards during its annual Iowa Valley Day on Tuesday, August 12, at Ellsworth Community College.

The event, which brings together all IVCCD staff and faculty, honored a wide range of achievements, from remarkable career longevity to exceptional new initiatives that have positively affected students and the community.

Milestone Service Recognition

IVCCD celebrated several employees for their years of service, with a special recognition for David Young, who was honored for an incredible 50 years with the district. Young’s dedication was praised for supporting the backbone of Iowa Valley’s systems throughout his half-century of service.

The following employees were recognized for their service:

5 Years

• Doug Curren – Powerline Technician Faculty, Marshalltown Community College (MCC)
• Ashley Krimmer – Nursing Faculty, MCC

10 Years

• Marnie Brown – IT Special Projects, District Services, District Services (DS)
• Christine Eige – Adult Literacy Instructor & Success Coach, Business & Community Solutions (BCS)
• Becky Hassett – Director of Programming & Student Support, BCS
• Terri Hungerford – College & Career Transition Advisor, MCC
• Danielle Kness – Biology Faculty, MCC
• Wendy Valentine – Psychology Faculty, Ellsworth Community College (ECC)
• Benita Petersen – Assistant Registrar, MCC

15 Years

• Mike Emerson – Dean of Students, ECC
• Mandy Fox – Trio SSS Coordinator, MCC
• Al Parks – Machine Trades Faculty, MCC

20 Years

• Brynjar Brynjarsson – Physical Education Faculty, MCC
• Christopher Buls – Computer Support Specialist, DS
• Jeff Parrott – Computer Support Specialist, DS

25 Years

• Honoria Baloghova – Dean of Academic Affairs, ECC
• Amy Good – Admissions Office Associate, MCC
• Rebecca Peterson – English/Communication Faculty, ECC

30 Years

• Sheryl Clingerman – Systems Administrator, Enterprise Systems, DS

40 Years

• Julie Thomas – Community Education Coordinator, BCS

Iowa Valley Impact Awards

This year marked the introduction of the Iowa Valley Impact Awards, a new series of honors that align with the District’s strategic plan and are designed to recognize individuals and partners who go above and beyond to advance the district’s mission, empower students, and strengthen local communities.

The following individuals and organizations were honored:

Lifelong Learning Award: Craig Juilfs

Craig Juilfs, Associate Dean of Enrollment, was honored for his dedication to creating innovative and engaging learning experiences. His leadership has inspired events like the successful Panther Jam, which welcomed and empowered prospective students. Juilfs was recognized for fostering a culture of continuous growth that extends learning beyond the classroom.

Empowering Student Success Award: Amee Schmidt, Charlene Summers, and Jocelyn Frohwein

Amee Schmidt, Charlene Summers, and Jocelyn Frohwein were celebrated for their leadership in launching the First Year Writing Workshop across the district. This initiative unified English faculty from all three campuses, as well as adjunct and high school instructors, to ensure consistent and rigorous instruction in Composition I and II. Their collaborative work was praised for creating a unified approach that supports student success.

Future-Ready Workforce Award: Jacque Goodman

Jacque Goodman, with over 30 years of service, was recognized for her role in preparing students for meaningful careers. Her leadership has launched impactful initiatives like the Iowa Health Careers and Rural Highways to HOPE programs, which create apprenticeship pathways in critical healthcare fields. Through visionary partnerships, Goodman has expanded opportunities for students and strengthened rural talent pipelines.

Sustainable Growth Award: Jan Sauerbrei

Jan Sauerbrei, Clinical Coordinator, received this award for her commitment to building a stronger and more efficient future for Iowa Valley. Sauerbrei led a two-year initiative to create a new reporting system for the nursing program, streamlining the identification of candidates and saving countless hours of manual work. Her efforts have improved processes, fostered cross-campus communication, and enhanced the experience for students, faculty, and staff.

IVCCD Ambassador of the Year Awards

The Ambassador of the Year awards were presented to partners who have shown exceptional support for the district.

UnityPoint Marshalltown was named the IVCCD Ambassador of the Year for its exceptional partnership in advancing student success and healthcare workforce development. As the first healthcare employer in the region to launch a healthcare apprenticeship model, UnityPoint Marshalltown has signed multiple apprentices and collaborated with MCC, Business and Community Solutions, and Marshalltown Community School District to create pathways into high-demand careers.

The Ellsworth Equine Advisory Board Volunteers were also recognized as IVCCD Ambassador of the Year recipients. This dedicated group was honored for their invaluable partnership with the college’s equine program, working closely with faculty and staff to enhance both academic and show experiences for students. Their passion and commitment have directly elevated programs and facilities, inspiring a significant donor contribution for lasting impact.

About Iowa Valley Community College District Iowa Valley Community College District includes Marshalltown Community College, Ellsworth Community College, and Iowa Valley Grinnell. It also provides Business and Community Solutions for area businesses and community members.