<\/strong>The NIACC Innovation Workspace received the Outstanding Innovation Award, recognizing its commitment to creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement. This hub empowers students, entrepreneurs, and community members with design thinking and technology skills through hands-on programs and non-credit certificates. Participants tackle real business challenges, collaborate with local companies, and prototype products using professional-grade digital manufacturing tools\u2014showcasing NIACC\u2019s dedication to building the workforce of the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dr. Rachel McGuire Named NIACC\u2019s Staff of the Year Rodney Zehr Honored as NIACC\u2019s Faculty of the Year <\/p>\n\n\n\n Celebrating Excellence at NIACC NIACC had an outstanding evening at the Community Colleges for Iowa Convention and Tradeshow on Wednesday, December 4th, bringing home honors that highlight the college\u2019s dedication to excellence and innovation. Innovation Workspace Earns Outstanding Innovation AwardThe NIACC Innovation Workspace received the Outstanding Innovation Award, recognizing its commitment to creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement. This hub […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":136,"featured_media":3896,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[146,148],"tags":[168,155,233,161],"class_list":["post-3889","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-inspiration","category-niacc-stories","tag-awards","tag-faculty","tag-innovation-workspace","tag-staff"],"yoast_head":"\n
\u201cThe Innovation Workspace has been a critical asset for developing the foundation of my business,\u201d said Josh Jeske, founder of Terraform Tillage. \u201cThe people, equipment, and resources have served to invigorate the surrounding communities, and the innovations developed here are certain to impact the world at large!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"NIACC](\"https:\/\/www.niacc.edu\/niacc-minute\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/12\/NIACC-Selective-Award-Innovation-Group-1_CCforIowa-12.4.24-Compressed-scaled.jpg\")
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<\/strong>Dr. Rachel McGuire, Vice President of Student Development and Success, was recognized as NIACC\u2019s Outstanding Staff of the Year for her unwavering dedication to students and transformative leadership. Over her 31-year career at NIACC, Rachel has championed student success, spearheading initiatives like the Wellness Hub and Food Pantry, and implementing systems to support students\u2019 academic and social needs. Known for her student-centric approach, Rachel regularly engages with students, attends their events, and celebrates their achievements. Her leadership and commitment have left a huge impact on NIACC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDr. Rachel McGuire is incredibly deserving of this award,\u201d said NIACC Director of Admissions, Anne Boyer. \u201cNot only does she advocate for all NIACC students identifying and implementing programming and opportunities to see students succeed, but she does the same for her staff and colleagues. NIACC is a better place for all through her leadership and commitment to success.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Rachel](\"https:\/\/www.niacc.edu\/niacc-minute\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/12\/NIACC-Awardee-Solo-Dr.-Rachel-McGuire_CCforIowa-12.4.24-scaled.jpg\")
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<\/strong>Rodney Zehr, a developmental Mathematics instructor, was awarded NIACC\u2019s Outstanding Faculty of the Year for his dedication to student success and educational excellence. Rodney\u2019s ability to meet the diverse needs of underprepared and underserved students is exceptional, ensuring every student has the tools to succeed. Beyond the classroom, he contributes through campus committees and volunteer efforts in his church and community. Known for his passion, compassion, and inclusiveness, Rodney fosters a supportive learning environment where all students feel valued, exemplifying what it means to be an outstanding educator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cRodney\u2019s recognition as the 2024 recipient of the Outstanding Community College Faculty Award is so well-deserved,\u201d said NIACC Director of Learning Services, Dalila Sajadian. \u201cHis dedication to his students and his impact both in and out of the classroom are truly inspiring. We\u2019re proud to celebrate this achievement with him!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Rodney](\"https:\/\/www.niacc.edu\/niacc-minute\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/12\/NIACC-Awardee-Solo-Rodney-Zehr_CCforIowa-12.4.24-scaled.jpg\")
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<\/strong>Reflecting on the awards, NIACC President Joel Pederson shared:
“At NIACC, we celebrate the dedication of our employees. Their commitment to education and community inspires us all, proving that together, we can create a brighter future for every student. We thank them for their remarkable contributions and for making a lasting impact.”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
These awards reflect NIACC\u2019s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting student success, and making a meaningful impact on the community. Congratulations to the Innovation Workspace, Dr. Rachel McGuire, and Rodney Zehr for their outstanding achievements!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"