Congratulations to Jennifer Hoodjer of Allison and Marianel Lovrien of Charles City—they are the winners of North Iowa Area Community College’s Extreme Makeover: College Edition! Each will receive free NIACC tuition, plus textbooks and more, for the 2025–26 school year.

Jennifer Hoodjer shared her excitement and gratitude, saying that winning this opportunity means more than she can express. “My long-time goal of getting my Associate’s degree in the Science of Nursing, which I had begun to believe would never happen, has suddenly been placed within reach,” she said. “I know that by applying myself, I will finally obtain this goal.” She also shared how this win has reignited her confidence and determination to keep pushing forward. “I always tell my son to never give up, no matter how impossible something may seem. I have to admit, although I say this to him, quietly inside I was beginning to doubt and was pretty close to just giving up. Winning this restores my faith and fuels my internal drive to keep reaching and never give up, no matter what life throws at you. Thank you so much to all at NIACC for making this opportunity available for me!”

Marianel Lovrien also expressed her appreciation, saying, “Winning the NIACC Extreme Makeover contest means a fresh start and a step toward rebuilding my life with purpose. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and the support to pursue a new direction through education.”

The three other finalists—Trish Vega of Hampton, Travis Ekborg of Mason City, and Rebekah Zeiset of Floyd—will each receive half-price tuition for the 2025–26 academic year.

Many opportunities are available at NIACC for adults interested in returning to school. For more information, contact NIACC Admissions at 641-422-4245, toll-free at 1-888-GO NIACC, ext. 4245, or visit www.niacc.edu.

Fall classes at NIACC begin Monday, August 25, and there is still time to register.

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The mission of North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) is to enrich lives through comprehensive educational opportunities, a commitment to learner success, community engagement, and leadership. Founded in 1918, NIACC is a nationally-recognized, two-year college located in central North Iowa, serving approximately 3,000 career and transfer students each year. Recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the nation’s leading community colleges, NIACC is where futures are found. Start your journey today at https://www.niacc.edu/apply-mkt/. Future, Found.