Joel Pedersen, President of North Iowa Area Community College, has been named a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Paragon President Honoree. President Pedersen will be recognized during PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa’s annual international convention.

The Phi Theta Kappa Paragon President recognition celebrates college leaders who demonstrate a strong and immediate connection to student success by prioritizing the recognition of high achievement and championing meaningful opportunities for student engagement. These presidents understand that when students are connected to their campus through leadership, scholarship, and service, they are more likely to persist, complete their credentials, and achieve successful transfer and career outcomes. Honorees are nominated by Phi Theta Kappa student leaders.

At North Iowa Area Community College, President Pedersen has demonstrated visible support for Phi Theta Kappa’s Alpha Psi Beta Chapter through advocacy for student-led initiatives, scholarship opportunities, and campus-wide recognition of academic achievement. As a community college graduate himself, he champions and encourages participation in leadership experiences such as the All-Iowa Academic Team program and campus leadership initiatives. His support of student-driven projects, including the NIACC Tree Initiative, reflects a commitment to empowering students to shape their campus community.

Students and advisors note that President Pedersen maintains a strong physical presence on campus, regularly attending student activities, academic events, and recognition ceremonies. By listening to student perspectives and supporting initiatives that keep tuition affordable and expand leadership opportunities, he reinforces a culture where student voices influence institutional decision-making.

“College presidents who have lived the community college experience bring a unique depth to their leadership,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. ““President Pedersen’s personal connection to that journey helps him lead with purpose and creates opportunities that resonate deeply with students.”

The Phi Theta Kappa Paragon Award for New Presidents recognizes college presidents who have served in their role for less than three years and who have quickly established a culture that values academic excellence, student engagement, and leadership development.

Paragon honorees prioritize the recognition of high achievement and help create environments where students are encouraged to persist, complete their credentials, and pursue meaningful transfer and career opportunities, reinforcing a culture where academic excellence is not only celebrated but expected.

About Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the first honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them grow as scholars and leaders. The Society serves more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters worldwide. Learn more at ptk.org.

Contact: Makayla Steede

press@ptk.org

www.ptk.org

About NIACC

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.

Contact: Valerie Zahorski-Schmidt

Zahorval@niacc.edu

www.niacc.edu

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