Local Excellence, National Recognition: Lasack Named a Top 20 Educator and IOWA 500 Business Leader

We hike Pulpit Rock for the views — and for the stories waiting at the top. Support Decorah News today. CALMAR — Northeast Iowa Community College is pleased to announce that Amy Lasack, vice president of business and community solutions, has been named a Top 20 continuing educator in the nation for 2026. The recognition was awarded by the Learning Resources Network, a national organization specializing in supporting community and continuing education. Lasack was selected from a pool of more than 2,000 practitioners across North America. She was recognized for her efforts in deepening relationships with regional employers to foster collaborative growth and innovation. "Ms. Lasack is on the cutting edge of our field and is making a significant contribution," said William A. Draves, president of the Learning Resources Network. She was also recently named an Iowa 500 business leader by the Corridor Business Journal for the second consecutive year. The list recognizes executives and changemakers driving Iowa's business landscape. With nearly 25 years in Iowa's community college system, Lasack's leadership is defined by a belief that education must adapt to the ecosystem of the modern workforce. "My philosophy has evolved toward making learning shorter, more flexible and directly tied to real workplace needs, where employers, community organizations and NICC work together," Lasack said. By aligning national best practices with local expertise, Lasack aims to ensure northeast Iowa leads the modern economy rather than simply keeping pace. Her focus remains on providing learning opportunities that help businesses stay competitive without removing employees from essential roles. "Community colleges sit at the intersection of education, workforce and community," Lasack said. "That kind of shared ownership is where real impact happens." For more information on NICC Business and Community Solutions or to hear insights on workforce development, visit nicc.edu/business-community or listen to "The Catalyst" podcast. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.