Northeast Iowa Community College Hall of Fame Honors Alumni, Retirees and Raises $50,270 to Support Student Success

You'll want to remember this moment. Help us record what's happening in Decorah. Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) celebrated nine alumni and retirees in October during its annual Hall of Fame ceremonies, raising $50,270 to provide scholarships and support for student needs. The events were made possible with premier sponsor Norplex Micarta and other community businesses. The Hall of Fame and Fundraiser honors individuals whose achievements reflect an NICC education and their commitment to the community. "This event is more than just a celebration of our history; it is a critical investment in our future workforce and the vitality of Northeast Iowa," said Anna Berns, executive director of advancement. "Thanks to the generous support of community partners like Norplex Micarta and all our attendees, students can pursue their goals with fewer financial barriers and greater opportunity." The Peosta campus ceremony was held Thursday, Oct. 16, honoring five alumni and one retiree. Peosta Campus Alumni Inductees: Leo Avila, Welding, 2014, of East Dubuque, Illinois, is a maintenance manager for Wisconsin Cheese Group. Sarah Carlson, Associate Degree of Nursing, 2007, of Dubuque, is dean of nursing at NICC. Dawn Fleming, Associate of Arts, 2008, of Dubuque, is assistant director of financial aid at NICC. Dawn Hedrick, Radiologic Technology, 1997, of Epworth, is a radiologic technologist at MercyOne Dubuque and a clinical instructor at NICC. Christie Schwager, Radiologic Technology, 2005, of Dubuque, is director of imaging services at MercyOne Dubuque.Peosta Retiree Award: Paul Kimball, NICC science faculty, 1990-2025, of Platteville, Wisconsin, inspired students for 35 years. He initiated programs like "Chalk Talks" and Science Lunch, mentored students, contributed to music programs, and earned the Carnegie Foundation and CASE Iowa Professor of the Year awards. The Calmar campus ceremony was held Thursday, Oct. 23, honoring two alumni and one retiree. Calmar Campus Alumni Inductees: Dale Kittleson, Automotive Mechanics, 1979, of Decorah, is co-founder and builder at Wild Rose Timberworks. April Schmitt, Early Childhood Education, 1997, of Fort Atkinson, teaches family and consumer sciences at New Hampton High School. Calmar Retiree Award: Carol Cameron, switchboard operator, financial aid, testing technician, 1973-2018, of Calmar, served NICC for more than 45 years. She transformed the Testing Center, supported students including veterans, and earned NICC's Extra Effort Award and the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees Outstanding Staff Award. Since its founding in 1966, NICC graduates have achieved distinction in their professions and communities. Retired faculty, staff and administrators continue to help NICC students and graduates succeed. For more information, visit www.nicc.edu/foundation. Become a part of the exclusive circle! Subscribe to the newsletter for free and gain access to special offers, bonus content and insider perks.