Northeast Iowa Community College Celebrates Graduates at Commencement Ceremonies

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) celebrated the academic achievements of its newest alumni during commencement ceremonies held last week on May 14 and May 15. The events honored students who completed their programs in fall 2025, winterim 2025, spring 2026 and summer 2026.

Calmar Campus Ceremony

The Calmar campus ceremony took place Thursday, May 14, at the Luther College Center for Faith and Life in Decorah. Approximately 120 graduates participated in the event.

Mallory Mohn, a NICC May 2026 Agriculture Business Transfer graduate, was the student speaker. While at the College, she served as Ag Club vice president and placed fourth nationally as a Dairy Specialist. Mallory will transfer to Iowa State University to major in Animal Science.

"Pressure means something matters," Mohn said. "Pressure is a privilege. With this mindset, and thanks to NICC, I had opportunities I never thought would be possible. During my time here, I was able to travel to South Dakota to compete at the Midwest Dairy Challenge; Wyoming to compete at the national PAS competition; Kentucky to judge dairy cattle at the North American International Livestock Exposition; Washington, D.C. to present my community-based project in the USDA headquarters and, of course, speaking in front of you all today."

Steve Slessor, Chief Administrative Officer of WinnMed in Decorah, delivered the keynote address. Slessor shared insights from his nearly five years with WinnMed, which has seen significant growth as one of the largest rural hospitals in the state.

"I am looking forward to seeing you and all the other NICC graduates propelling our region forward, or reading about your exploits elsewhere," Slessor said. "I selfishly hope we see many of you at WinnMed-that would be great. But, wherever you are, I know you're going to perform exceptionally well because that's what we've experienced from you all. And you'll show up for your community. And for that, thank you."

Peosta Campus Ceremony

The Peosta campus ceremony was held Friday, May 15, at the University of Dubuque Heritage Center, with approximately 200 graduates in attendance.

Tyler Bly, a NICC May 2026 Associate of Arts graduate, was the student speaker. A writer whose 26-year journey to a diploma was defined by resilience, Tyler returned to the College in late 2025 following a motorcycle accident. He was an active member of TRIO Student Support Services and the Creative Writing Club and hopes to further his passion for writing and community service.

"We will be the next generation of nurses, engineers, lawyers, writers, artists, medics and technicians," Bly said. "These grads are the catalysts of a brighter tomorrow. We are the conservators of the future."

Jordan Fullan, co-CEO of the Dubuque-headquartered material handling and logistics company HODGE, delivered the keynote address. A fourth-generation leader and the majority owner of the historic woman-owned business, Fullan leads with intention and purpose, inspiring others through her commitment to innovation, mentorship and building healthy habits.

"As you step into what comes next, remember these three lessons," Fullan said. "Be direct and be kind. Treat time as limited and life as long. Be confident and stay curious. And through it all, be present where you are and keep growing into who you are becoming."