North Iowa Area Community College President Joel Pedersen has been named a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Paragon President Honoree, a national recognition celebrating college leaders who make student success a top priority. He will be honored at PTK Catalyst, the organization’s annual international convention.
The Paragon Award recognizes new presidents who quickly build a culture that values academic excellence, leadership, and meaningful student engagement. Honorees are nominated by Phi Theta Kappa student leaders, reflecting the impact they see firsthand.
At NIACC, President Pedersen has shown strong support for the college’s Alpha Psi Beta Chapter through advocacy for student-led initiatives, expanded scholarship opportunities, and campus-wide recognition of academic achievement.
As a community college graduate himself, he actively encourages students to get involved in leadership programs like the All-Iowa Academic Team and other campus initiatives.
His support of student-driven efforts, including the NIACC Tree Initiative, highlights his commitment to empowering students to shape their campus community.
Students and advisors share that President Pedersen is a familiar and supportive presence at events, ceremonies, and activities across campus.
By listening to student perspectives and supporting efforts to keep tuition affordable while expanding opportunities, he continues to foster an environment where student voices matter.
Phi Theta Kappa serves more than 4.4 million members worldwide and recognizes academic achievement at associate degree-granting colleges. At NIACC, this honor reflects a continued commitment to helping students succeed and ensuring every student’s future is truly found.
