NICC 2026 Hall of Fame Events Raise More Than $90,000 to Support Students and College Priorities

Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) celebrated six decades of impact this September, raising more than $90,000 for student scholarships and College priorities during its 2026 Hall of Fame & Fundraiser events on the Calmar and Peosta campuses.

The annual celebrations brought together 271 alumni, retirees, friends and community members to honor 14 accomplished alumni and one outstanding retiree while raising funds to support the next generation of NICC students. Through event sponsorships, individual gifts, live auctions and paddle raises, donors turned the two evenings of recognition into a direct investment in the region's workforce and future leaders.

"What struck me throughout both evenings was how often our honorees talked about NICC as a starting point, " said NICC Executive Director of Advancement Anna Berns. "Someone here helped them find their direction, prepared them for what came next or eventually welcomed them back as an instructor or colleague. Sixty years later, our donors are helping create those same opportunities for the students walking through our doors today."

This year's 15 Hall of Fame honorees represented various programs, professions and eras across NICC's 60-year history. Honorees included early attendees from the College's founding years as well as recent graduates now working in healthcare, agriculture, business and public service. Among those recognized was former NICC President Dr. Liang Chee Wee, who received the 2026 Outstanding Retiree award.

"We do life better together," Dr. Wee said during his closing remarks, capturing the spirit of the two campus gatherings.

Proceeds from the events will provide student scholarships, strengthen academic programs and offer the College financial flexibility to address emerging strategic priorities and critical student needs.

NICC extends special recognition to its Champion-level sponsors: Conlon Construction, Emplify Health, Fidelity Bank & Trust, Norplex MiCarta and WinnMed.

To read about the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees and view a complete list of event sponsors, visit nicc.edu/HallofFame.

2026 NICC Hall of Fame & Fundraiser: By the Numbers

• $90,000+ raised for NICC students and college priorities
• 271 alumni, friends and community members in attendance
• 15 individuals recognized
• Two campus celebrations