M AGA Z I N E
Celebrating the Class of 2021 Overcoming Challenges and Growth
Global Reach EICC Education Prepares Vietnamese Nun to Give Back
Microcredentials Level-Up Professionally
COLLEGE COMMUNITY LEADS TO LIFE UNIMAGINED SUMMER 2021
For yourself. For your community. At Eastern Iowa Community Colleges we offer MORE…
MORE opportunities MORE flexibility MORE for your life!
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New flat-rate tuition for on-campus, full-time students. Take 12 credit-hours and get six more FREE!
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Close to home with affordable tuition, financial aid and scholarships.
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Hands-on career programs leading directly to employment in high-demand jobs.
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Associate’s Degrees with seamless transfer to four-year colleges.
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Leader in online classes with more than 10 exclusively online programs and 1,000+ students each semester.
Fall classes begin August 23! Visit eicc.edu/fall2021 Call us toll-free 1-888-336-3907 or email eiccinfo@eicc.edu 2
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C O N T E N T S
M AGA Z I N E
SUMMER 2021 4 CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2021 Overcoming challenges and growth
6 IT ONLINE
More flexibility
7 HIGH-DEMAND DEGREES TUITION FREE
8 MADE FOR MORE 10 GLOBAL REACH
13 LEVEL-UP PROFESSIONALLY
12 READY TO WORK
14 EMERITUS 2021
EICC prepares Vietnamese nun to give back Prepare for a career in two years or less
Get your tuition paid with Iowa’s Last Dollar program
Introducing EICC Microcredentials
Honoring those who served with distinction
15 PROGRAM LIST
Explore guided pathways
EDITOR'S NOTES Spring—as the days become longer and nature comes to life everything seems possible once again. Seldom has that seemed more true than this year as our world begins what, hopefully, is the end of a global pandemic. Spring is always a time of new possibilities at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges as we celebrate graduation and cheer on students, who we have come to know as family, take their next steps into what we are sure will be great futures. This edition of TCC Magazine is especially devoted to our students, including a graduation story and features we’re sure you’ll enjoy about Claudia, Nuong and Brock. Spring and, with it, the end of the academic year, also brings a time for goodbyes as we send off those retiring from a career dedicated to serving our students. This year, six individuals with nearly 200 years of combined service have been honored with the college’s Emeritus designation. Their stories are included in these pages as well. All that and so much more is packed inside. As with all TCC Magazines, it’s always a challenge deciding what to include. There are so many great stories to tell. We invite you to catch up on those you may have missed, as well as some new ones that didn’t make it into our printed edition, on our digital site, tccmagazine.org We hope you are enjoying the spring and summer. We are excited and look forward to welcoming everyone to fully-open campuses once again this fall.
COVER STORY
Made for More COLLEGE COMMUNITY LEADS TO LIFE UNIMAGINED PAGE
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It is the policy of Eastern Iowa Community College District not to discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, and actual or potential family, parental or marital status, as required by the Iowa Code §§216.6 and 216.9, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d and 2000e), the Equal Pay Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. § 206, et seq.), Title IX (Educational Amendments, 20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1688), Section 504 (Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 794), and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. § 12101, et seq.). If you have questions or complaints related to compliance with this policy, please contact Debora J. Sullivan, Equal Employment Opportunity Officer/Equity Coordinator, Eastern Iowa Community College District, 101 West Third Street, Davenport, Iowa 52801, 563-336-3487, djsullivan@eicc.edu or the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Citigroup Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1475, Chicago, Illinois 60661-7204, phone number 312-730-1560, fax 312-730-1576, OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.
“We are now better prepared to adapt and grow, no matter what life presents. Classes before us may have a story to tell, but we made history—pandemic style. We are the Class of 2021.” – Natalie Ehlinger, Clinton Community College Graduate
Celebrating the Class of 2021 Overcoming Challenges and Growth: Eastern Iowa Community Colleges’ (EICC) Graduates Reflect on Their Time at Clinton, Scott and Muscatine Community Colleges
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hen most people look back on their college days, it’s filled with fond memories of group study sessions at the library, going head-tohead in intramural sports leagues or laughing alongside colleagues in campus club activities. However, for the EICC Class of 2021, they will look back on their time in college…a bit differently. Unforeseen challenges by the COVID-19 pandemic forced the college community to pivot, almost overnight. Online classes, meetings held via Zoom and dealing with faulty Wi-Fi connection became part of the new normal. However, to define these students’ time during the pandemic solely through the lens of academics would be to overlook the numerous details that humanize and differentiate each of their experiences. More than 900 students graduated from Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, celebrating with virtual commencement ceremonies on May, 13, 14 and 17.
Staring thoughtfully into the camera in each ceremony’s opening speech, Chancellor Don Doucette expressed this sentiment to the graduates, “No graduating class in memory has overcome as many obstacles as you to get here—to earn your diploma despite the disruptions, challenges and suffering caused by this pandemic.” “You are not only graduates, but survivors. You have shown perseverance, flexibility, adaptability and courage—traits that will serve you well in facing future challenges.” Many of those same buzzwords were reiterated throughout the student commencement speeches. The past academic year was one in which students learned that perseverance, flexibility, adaptability and courage were muscles that had to be flexed time and time again, dealing with ever-changing protocols, canceled events and learning how to be part of a community, despite being oftentimes apart. Because of this, these graduates are ready to ride into the next phase of life with a renewed sense of purpose.
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PERSEVERANCE Muscatine Community College (MCC) student commencement speaker, Dale Montagna, is no stranger to overcoming his fair share of challenges. After dropping out of high school and later welcoming a son into his life, Montagna knew he needed to make a change. Upon receiving his High School Equivalency Diploma and enrolling in classes at MCC, he jumped on every opportunity to get involved. “The community that MCC provided was unlike anything I would’ve imagined—I guess that’s why they call it a community college. I know that MCC has provided me with the skills and confidence needed to excel in my new career path,” said Montagna. His advice is simple: Never let anyone tell you you can’t do something. As long as you’re willing to work for it, you can achieve it.
FLEXIBILITY Star athlete. Active community member. High school student. Employee. Clinton Community College (CCC) student. You read that right. At a mere 18 years of age, Natalie Ehlinger capped her graduation with three degrees; a high school diploma from Maquoketa High School, as well as an Associate of Arts Degree and an Associate of Science Degree from CCC. As a concurrent student, Ehlinger was able to dually enroll in college classes at CCC, starting her freshman year of high school. Remarkably, she graduated from high school as a junior in college.
COURAGE For MCC student commencement speaker, Daniel Salazar, his graduation marked a longtime dream of his grandfather. In 1973, Salazar’s grandfather immigrated from Mexico and Texas to Muscatine, Iowa, with his wife and eight siblings. He was described as a hardworking man, even juggling three jobs at one time to provide for his family. Naturally, once Salazar grew up, he knew he wanted to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps— working at Kraft Heinz as a maintenance worker.
Ehlinger credits her success to having a growthmindset, as well as keeping a positive attitude. “The pandemic helped us see that learning takes place in many different ways and challenged each of us to make the most out of our academic success, from outside the traditional classroom,” said Ehlinger, addressing CCC students as a virtual commencement speaker. “We have mastered what generations and classes before us have never dreamt possible.”
However, it was one conversation with his grandfather that changed the trajectory of his future.
With a wide smile, Ehlinger explains that despite the world turning upside down, the college formed a strong community of learners.
“Mijo, look at my hands, look at my fingers,” said Salazar, paraphrasing his grandfather’s words. “Not a single one of them is straight after being broken, hit and damaged. You can do so much more. You need to go to school so you don’t have it as hard as I did.”
“No matter what life throws at us, we are living proof that you can never give up. The only way we can make a difference in this world is to stay strong,” said Ehlinger.
ADAPTABILITY
So, that’s just what he did. Sharing this story with all the virtual commencement attendees, Salazar is ready to make his grandfather proud and become his own success story.
“We were put through it all it seemed, but because of it all, we came out stronger and smarter,” said Scott Community College (SCC) student commencement speaker, Morgan Hemmen.
“The reality I want you all to realize is that ordinary people like you and I can do extraordinary things.”
Hemmen credits her time in college as one of development and growth; learning not only how to be mentally smart, but mentally strong too. She, as well as many other virtual commencement speakers, took the time to thank her advisers, instructors, family and friends for getting her past the finish line.
It’s these traits—perseverance, flexibility, adaptability and courage—that will serve our alumni well in facing future challenges. Congratulations to all 2021 graduates!
“All of us had to deal with different struggles,” said Hemmen. “Some had to figure out how to make e-learning possible–they may have had to rent a laptop from the school or find somewhere to go to use the internet when everything was closed or shut down. Luckily, we did have help.”
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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS NOW OFFERED BOTH ON-CAMPUS AND ONLINE There’s never been a better time to enter into the world of information technology than now.
T
he smartwatch counting your steps— the wireless headphones playing your favorite songs—or your iPad streaming that popular TV show—were all technological advancements of just the past decade. If history is a snapshot of what is to come, technology has many promising advancements on the horizon for students pursuing Information Technology (IT) careers.
the curriculum. By providing tools such as practice exams and a testing center, students can seamlessly earn on-site certifications from our partners, CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, Amazon Web Services and EC-Council.
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Augmented & Virtual Reality (AVR) Gain hands-on experience developing AVR content and applications for industry and training by working on real-client projects.
Starting this fall, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) will offer all Information Technology (IT) programs in both Online and On-Campus modalities.
➤ Cybersecurity
Roberta Osmers, Information Technology Instructor and Department Coordinator, said EICC is excited to offer these new class formats, as it will provide even greater flexibility for students interested in pursuing this high-demand field.
➤ Networking for Systems and Security
“The ability to complete any of our IT Degrees, Diplomas or Certificates, online, makes our programs available to students who previously were unable to attend a traditional classroom program,” said Osmers. “People who are looking to change careers, without missing work, now have the ability to do so.”
➤ Programming Concentration
ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS EICC provides specialized, concentrated IT, Associate of Applied Science degrees that integrate industry-standard certifications in
One of the fastest growing career fields
Work to keep computer networks safe by using your intensive training in network operating systems, network security and network attack detection, analysis and countermeasures. Play a vital role in the smooth operation of businesses and organizations by troubleshooting both hardware and software, analyzing problems, providing support for users and monitoring network resources. Learn how to create software programs used to target the specific needs of businesses or individuals with Visual Basic, C# and Java computer languages.
eicc.edu/tccmagazine
GET YOUR DEGREE FOR FREE With Iowa's Last Dollar program, all Iowa residents pursuing any of the aforementioned IT programs can get their tuition paid in full! The program works simply—file for financial aid and the state will cover the remaining balance beyond the aid for which you are eligible. Even if you receive no federal or state aid, the program will pay all of your tuition, regardless of your personal income situation. You must fill out the FAFSA by August 1, 2021, to be eligible. For more information regarding this Future Ready Iowa initiative, read on!
Learn more about our IT programs at eicc.edu/infotech
➤ Web Development Concentration
Use both your creative and technical side creating,
Computer and IT occupations are projected to grow 11% through 2029 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
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designing, updating and maintaining web pages and full websites using web development and scripting languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, ASP, PHP, and Perl, among others.
$91,250: The median annual wage for computer and IT jobs
FILE THE FAFSA—GET MONEY FOR COLLEGE! Each year, the office of Federal Student Aid provides more than 120 billion in grant, work-study and loan funds to help students pay for college.
HIGH-DEMAND e e r F n o i DEGREES Tuit What if you could train to become a nurse, diesel mechanic or even graphic artist for $0 tuition cost?
Yes, take classes and receive hands-on training from experts in the field—tuition free. Depending on your personality type, you’d most likely a) jump at the chance or b) think this must be too good to be true… The good news is with Iowa’s Last Dollar program, 100 percent of your tuition is covered in more than 25 of our most popular degrees, preparing you for in-demand jobs with great starting salaries. There are Certificate, Diploma and Degree options available, so you can choose the path that works best for you.
For students in the qualifying programs, all you have to do is fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by August 1. The state then covers the remaining balance beyond the aid for which you are eligible. Even if you receive no federal or state aid, the program will pay your entire tuition. That’s right, regardless of your personal income situation, you will pay no tuition costs!
More than 120 billion dollars are available to help students like you, your daughter or son fund an education! All you need to do to tap into these funds is fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The window for filing your 2021–2022 FAFSA is already here. You could begin filing as early as October 1. By filling out the FAFSA, you can access federal grants that do not need to be repaid, federal student loans with low interest rates, and work study programs that provide a convenient way to simultaneously fund your education and build work experience. Many people miss out on important grants and student loans because they don’t know what’s involved, miss the filing deadline or simply think they won’t qualify. You still have time to file if you begin the process now, and there’s no income cutoff to qualify for federal student aid. It doesn’t matter if you have a low or high income; most people qualify for some type of financial aid. Many factors are taken into account, including your family size and enrollment status.
One of the many great things about the program is that it’s available to both new high school graduates and adult learners (age 20 and older). New high school graduates will be expected to enroll fulltime in the fall immediately following high school graduation. Adult students can enroll either full or part-time.
The form is required of all students filing for financial aid, and by most colleges for their college scholarships.
The deadline is August 1, so you still have time to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity. To view a full list of qualifying programs, visit eicc.edu/lastdollar
What are you waiting for? Get started today at eicc.edu/fafsa
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Made for More
COLLEGE COMMUNITY LEADS TO LIFE UNIMAGINED
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ith her megawatt smile and warm personality, Claudia Artola is the last person you’d describe as “angsty” or “shy.” But those are exactly the words she uses when talking about her life before enrolling at Muscatine Community College (MCC). A first generation college student who grew up in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Artola moved to Muscatine just two years after her family immigrated to California. At the time, she wasn’t exactly thrilled about the move. “I was really angry at the world because I had just been removed from so many places,” Artola said. “I thought, ‘I’m not going to make any friends, I am from other places, what are we going to have in common?’” With family already in Muscatine and greater opportunities for work and affordable housing, Artola reluctantly made Muscatine home. Not knowing much about Iowa, let alone her new community, she never imagined this “small” town would house the place destined to change her life. “When I arrived here, I did not know I had a possibility to go to community college because we didn’t save like most people had the chance to,” she said. “However, I learned about financial aid and received scholarships, so I was able to enroll.”
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A BIG HUG
RENEWED AMBITION
Once she stepped foot on campus, Artola’s anger, angst and shyness slowly began to melt away as she discovered more about her new community, and most importantly, herself.
When Artola started at MCC, she had no idea what she wanted to do with her life, and quite frankly, did not think she had the resources to go beyond earning her Associate’s Degree. Despite her original doubts, the more she studied, discovered her passions and talked with her advisor, the more she began to realize a Bachelor’s Degree was in fact within her reach.
“The teachers, students and groups, they just offered me that sense of like a big hug. It’s like ‘hi, you are welcome here.’ I just started being more talkative and extroverted, taking on more leadership and just feeling more confident in general.” As it turned out, she need not worry about making friends or finding her way. Seizing every opportunity, it wasn’t long before she was involved in a number of organizations across campus including theatre and the student newspaper. She also worked as a student ambassador, joined the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and even started working as the Latino Outreach Assistant for Iowa State Extension and Outreach. “All my classes and experiences helped me figure out what I wanted to do,” said Artola. “It’s like dominoes, I crossed this door and now I can go through another one.”
At this point, the possibilities are limitless—and that’s the thing Artola hopes other EICC students can take away from their time in college. She experienced first-hand the support, resources and encouragement that are right there if you can accept the “big hug” and believe in yourself. “Be brave, you’re going to find your people,” she said. “I feel like if I hadn’t started at MCC, I don’t know where I would be today. The journey is worth it.”
“It just turned on that ambition that had been a little down since I moved to the U.S. I felt like now I can actually do this...this is what my parents have been fighting for, this is what I have been fighting for...I can actually feel it happening. It was amazing.”
More Savings, More Benefits
With Eastern Iowa Community Colleges’ countless transfer agreements and Transfer Majors, she was able to earn her Associate's Degree in Social Work and seamlessly transfer on to the University of Iowa (UI).
EICC TRANSFER Four-year colleges come to us seeking our students. If your goal is a Bachelor’s Degree… we have a plan. We make the process easy, so you can start here with confidence knowing your credits will transfer.
“If I didn’t have my advisor and some of my teachers, I would have never made the discovery by myself,” she said. “They were always there for me and I felt very safe to tell them when I didn’t understand the process.”
Transfer Majors at Eastern Iowa Community Colleges provide a complete blueprint for your move to a four-year college or university. More than that, these majors allow you to start your major before you transfer, making it possible to graduate with your Associate’s Degree in a specific field.
UI HAWKEYE Now preparing to enter her senior year at UI, majoring in Social Work and minoring in Political Science, Artola is looking forward to the future. While her first year on campus unfolded during a worldwide pandemic, she’s determined to make the most of the next year by getting involved as much as possible and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
Partners in the program include University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, Western Illinois University and St. Ambrose University, just to name a few. That’s in addition to dozens of seamless transfer agreements with public, private and out-of-state colleges.
“I want to be the person I needed as a child,” Artola said of her chosen career path. “I’d love to go abroad to Latin America and give back to the community that raised me. I’m also planning to eventually earn my Master’s Degree in social welfare, education or maybe law.”
Learn more at eicc.edu/transfer
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GLOBAL REACH EICC Education Prepares Vietnamese Nun To Give Back
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ith little more than her faith and a few belongings, six years ago Sister Nuong Bui traveled to the United to States to embark on a journey of selfdiscovery and sacrifice with one goal in mind: To become a nurse. Many people choose this career path because they like helping people, enjoy healthcare, or even because of the great pay. But in Bui’s case, the driving force behind her decision to travel more than 8,000 miles away from her home country encompasses even more. “I’ll use my skills to help the poor and those people in need in Vietnam,” Bui said. “It is one of my missions to serve for the poor.” As a Catholic nun with The Sisters of the Lovers of the Holy Cross in Sóc Trăng, Vietnam, Bui has committed her life to sharing her faith and giving her time and talents to those who need it most. When her community gave her the task of studying to become a nurse, she bravely made Iowa home to pursue her education— despite not knowing a soul nor English.
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“When I first came to U.S. I was so worried because I had no family, friends or relatives,” she said. With language barriers, cultural differences and all, Nuong was able to find a caring community in both the local congregations who welcomed her and Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. Starting her journey by first living in Dubuque with the Sisters of the Presentation and taking English classes, she set her sights on earning her Associate of Arts Degree at Scott Community College (SCC) before entering the practical nursing program at Clinton Community College (CCC). With the help of EICC’s Foundations and financial aid, Bui received several scholarships to make funding her education possible—something she had been concerned about when first traveling to the U.S.
“Whenever there has been a chance for me to apply for a scholarship, they’ve helped me with the application and goal statement,” she said. “I really appreciate that.”
though often experienced virtually, helped her overcome loneliness and stay focused on reaching her goals. She’s proven that no matter your background or life experiences, one person’s individual achievements can ripple through a community like a stone thrown in the water—impacting numerous lives even thousands of miles away.
Bui has been equally grateful for the connections and emotional support she’s gained by joining numerous student organizations, including Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, TRIO and RISE—programs dedicated to enhancing student success by providing services to those facing educational, economic or cultural challenges.
“The college not only supported me in my education, but is helping support the poor through my future career,” she said. “CCC is making my dream come true.”
“I have been so much encouraged and supported through academics, but also life skills,” she said. “It’s been so meaningful to me.”
Bui will finish her clinicals this summer, graduating with a Practical Nursing Diploma. She plans to continue her education at St. Ambrose University before returning to Vietnam, where she will use her new skills and compassion to make a difference.
The student groups, and prayer, were especially crucial when the pandemic brought life to a standstill. The relationships she formed,
Learn more about the college’s nursing programs, including transfer agreements at eicc.edu/reach
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EICC GUIDED PATHWAYS Engineering Tech is just one of many programs housed within the college’s Industrial Technology Guided Pathway. With Guided Pathways, students can more easily explore their options, identify their educational and career goals and chart a clear, structured path to a successful completion. The college currently offers 30+ programs in the following pathways:
Agriculture, Food, & Natural Resources Immerse yourself in the natural world of wind, water, land, plants and animals.
Ready to Work IN TWO YEARS OR LESS
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hen Muscatine Community College (MCC) student Brock Jeambey was considering what to do after high school, he only knew he wanted a hands-on career close to home. It wasn’t until an Engineering Tech instructor presented at his high school that he discovered all of the opportunities available in the field.
It’s just one of dozens of programs the college offers that teaches students specific, on-thejob skills. With a wide variety of career labs across all three of our Clinton, Muscatine and Scott Community College campuses, students can work with the same equipment they’ll find in the real-world. Oh, and instructors who have been there, done that.
“Engineering Technology just sounded like a really good degree and something I would enjoy doing,” Jeambey said. Beyond that, he knew he could get started at MCC and graduate ready to work in just two years.
“It’s really important,” Jeambey said of the opportunity to put what he learns into action. “The experience to back up what I learn in the books has been great and the instructors are super helpful and really encouraging. You can tell they like what they do…they like teaching and they’re excited about it.”
“It’s really high-demand everywhere,” he said. “I know by choosing this degree and career pathway, I won’t go into thousands of dollars of debt for my education and I’m going to be set-up for success.” Engineering Technology includes a core group of courses built to areas of specialization in Automation, Electromechanical and Process Control, preparing students to work with equipment and tech used in manufacturing and related fields.
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With one year of training down and only one to go, Jeambey is already thinking about where he’d like to apply his newly developed skills and knowledge. “A lot of area companies need people with my degree; I’m excited to get a job and start working and begin the next chapter in my life.”
Applied Digital, Visual & Communication Arts Express yourself and communicate with a wide variety of audiences creatively using language, art and design. Business, Finance, Marketing & Management Prepare to thrive in the everchanging global economy. Government & Criminal Justice Prepare for careers in law, public safety and security, including professional and technical support services. Health Sciences Provide highly skilled care and compassion to improve people’s lives. Human Services & Education Help individuals or families meet their personal needs. Industrial Technology Work with your hands and your mind to problem-solve, build, repair or invent. Information Solutions Make a difference in the lives of consumers, business and industry. EICC Online Earn your Associate’s Degree or prepare for an in-demand field from wherever you are with the flexibility of online classes. Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Use emerging technologies, science and math to understand the planet, solve problems and create innovative methods, ideas or products. Transportation Technology Keep consumers, business and industry moving by ensuring vehicles are in working order.
Explore your options at eicc.edu/pathway
EASTERN IOWA COMMUNITY COLLEGES
LE : B E YO N DA DERSH IP MANAG E M E N T
Level-Up Professionally With
I
MICROCREDENTIALS
magine this: You've just completed a triathlon and sunk your teeth into that shiny gold medal for a photo—your well-deserved prize for crossing the finish line. You’re on cloud nine. However, this medal just showcases your efforts of that single day. What if you were rewarded for all of the hard work that led up to that moment? Those painful 5 a.m. runs, the strict diet regimen, the time commitment, the list goes on. That’s where a microcredential comes in. Credit for all of your hard work, not just the result. Microcredentials are short, narrowly focused programs of study recognizing learning and verifying your competency. You complete each section over a handful of weeks and are required to demonstrate your understanding of the materials through assessment and/or participation. Once the course is completed, you will earn a digital badge and the official credit is logged on your transcript.
Importance of a Digital Badge
for Business and Information Technology Programs. “Since the badges are linked directly to the course, your professional network and potential employers can see all of the mastered course modules, objectives and skills.”
have a whole generation of people who think of education differently. They want the skills, and to be recognized for what they have earned, but they don’t necessarily want to spend thousands of dollars or sit through the classes for an advanced degree.”
Microcredentials at EICC
Microcredentials for Local Employers
EICC currently offers four microcredential courses, with plans to add even more later this summer. The current offerings are delivered both OnCampus and Live Online, twice per year. Each course is approximately 16–24 hours of total instruction time, with weekly classes occurring in digestible, two to three hour sessions.
The college also provides customized microcredential programs to area employers and their employees. “One of the biggest requests of today’s workforce is opportunity for continual growth–not all employers have necessarily recognized that," said EICC Business Solutions Consultant, Cheryl RileyHayles. "With microcredentials, employers can offer this as a way to say, ‘you’ll still be developing and growing with us.’”
Leadership: Beyond Management, On-Campus classes begin Aug. 26 Frontline Leadership, On-Campus classes begin Sept. 1
Through contracted workshops, employers are able to provide skill-based or knowledgebased microcredentials. They also have the flexibility to decide between offering or even requiring employees to complete an assessment at the end of their training.
Leadership: Developing your Emotional Quotient, Live Online classes begin Oct. 6 Leadership: Conflict to Collaboration, On-Campus classes begin Nov. 11
Digital badges are visual representations of the microcredential earned. Depending on the program selected, you will either earn a skillbased or knowledge-based badge. Badges can then be shared via social media platforms, added to email signatures and displayed on resumes.
In addition, no educational degree–including a high school diploma–is required to enroll in a microcredential course. EICC instructors and staff are very passionate about these programs and the professional opportunities they will bring to the community.
“The digital badge is an easy, quick visual for people to see your worth,” said Tyne Rieck, EICC Continuing Education Manager
“Microcredentials are a cost-effective way to earn a skill, whether it’s on a shop floor, or managing a team of professionals,” explained Rieck. “We now
“Employers who invest in their employees want to know that they walked away with a newfound knowledge or skill, and this checks those boxes,” said Riley-Hayles.
Get started today at eicc.edu/microcredentials
THE Community's College | MAGAZINE 13
Emeritus 2021
Honoring Those Who Have Served With Distinction
At the heart of THE Community's College are the people who put their skills, knowledge and passion into making students' dreams a reality. That’s why every year we take a moment to celebrate retired and retiring individuals who exemplified service to students and the community during their years with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges. This spring, six faculty and staff were recognized for their contributions through the college's Emeritus Awards. For more information about the Emeritus honorees, both past and present, visit eicc.edu/emeritus
Alan Campbell embodied what it means to be THE Community's College by serving 35 years as the Associate Director for Marketing and Communications, providing vision, creativity and leadership to all of the EICC's marketing efforts. In addition to his great contributions to EICC, Campbell has advanced the profession of community college marketing in both Iowa and across the entire country as a 30-year member of NCMPR (the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations) and former President of the national organization.
Jonathan Ikoba served 27 years with Scott Community College as an Economics and Global Studies Instructor, sharing his knowledge and strength of character in the classroom and beyond. Best described as a man of “great integrity and heart,” Ikoba also served as a leader and mentor to faculty as the Social Sciences Department Coordinator and on a variety of institutional committees. A forward thinker with a thirst for knowledge, he is an expert in developing learning strategies and community initiatives with a lasting impact.
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Marcia Larson made it her mission to help students succeed, serving for more than 15 years with Clinton Community College as an Academic Advisor, the Co-Chair of the Retention Committee and the Disabilities Resource Coordinator. A vocal advocate for removing barriers to student success, she was instrumental in the creation of the CCC Cupboard to reduce food insecurity for students, helped develop a program to provide bus passes and gas cards to those in need, and took it upon herself to become the “guru” in many areas of the college.
Gale Roeder served 46 years in the college's Continuing Education (CE) Department, retiring as the Manager of CE Community Programming. During her decades long career, she mastered what is unattainable for most: the ability to continually innovate and build new relationships at a pace that can only be described as “super-human.” It is her persistent determination that helped her build the largest and most diverse portfolio of programs in the college’s Continuing Education Department.
Peggy Thoms exemplified EICC’s commitment to a culture of high aspirations and expectations during her 20 plus years as a Psychology Instructor for Clinton Community College by prioritizing student success. One of the first to embrace hybrid-teaching models, Thoms quickly adopted to new technology and developed a challenging but supportive learning environment where students flourished. Outside the classroom, she was an active member of numerous campus and district committees including Professional Development, LEAP Assessment Goals and Faculty Association Representative, to name a few.
Kathy Sunderbruch served more than 35 years as an English Instructor at Muscatine Community College, challenging and inspiring students to reach their full potential with meticulous classroom preparation, outstanding instruction and the ability to stretch her students’ critical thinking skills. Beyond her work in the classroom, she was also an active ally of “All Kinds of People,” an LGBT student organization, and the founding member of the AKOP book club.
PROGRAMS OF STUDY Associate’s Degrees, Diplomas and Certificate Options eicc.edu/ourprograms
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Agriculture Education Transfer Major, AA – E Agriculture Education Transfer Major, AS – E Agribusiness Equipment Sales and Service, Diploma – M Agribusiness Equipment Technician, AAS – M Agribusiness Management, AAS – M Agriculture Business Transfer Major, AS – E Agriculture Systems Technology, AAS – M Agronomy Transfer Major, AS – E Agronomy, Diploma – M Animal Science Transfer Major, AS – E Conservation Pathway, AS – E Environmental, Health, and Safety, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Environmental Science Pathway, AA, AS – O Farm Management, AAS – E Industrial Hemp Production, Diploma – M Precision Agribusiness Management, AAS – M Sales & Service, Diploma – M Turf and Landscape, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – M Veterinary Technician, AAS – M
Applied Digital, Visual and Communication Arts Communication Transfer Major, AA – E English Transfer Major, AA – E Journalism Pathway, AA – E Graphic Arts Technology, AAS, Diploma – O y Digital Photography Certificate – O
Fine Arts
Art Pathway – E Music Pathway – M Theatre Pathway – M, S
Business, Finance, Marketing and Management
Location Key
E – Program available at all colleges M – Muscatine Community College CE – Continuing Education Program C – Clinton Community College S – Scott Community College O – Online*
Transfer Programs
AA – Associate in Arts AS – Associate in Science
Career and Technical Education
AAS – Associate in Applied Science
Short-Term Programs Diploma Certificate
*Two options: Anytime 24/7 or Live Online with designated class time List is subject to change as new programs become available.
Accounting Management, AAS, Diploma – E Administrative Office Professional, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Business Professional, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E y Small Business Management Certificate – E Business Transfer Major, AA – E Data Analytics, Certificate – O Inventory Control, Certificate – O Logistics and Transportation, Certificate – O Supply Chain and Logistics, AAS, Diploma – O
Government and Criminal Justice Criminal Justice Transfer Major, AA – E Criminal Justice, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E Cybersecurity, AAS, Certificate – E Networking for Cybersecurity, Diploma – E Political Science Transfer Major, AA – E Pre-Law Pathway, AA – E History Transfer Major, AA – E
Health Sciences Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, Certificate – E Associate Degree Nursing, AAS – C, S Cancer Information Management, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – O Certified Nurse Aide – S, CE
Community Dental Health Coordinator, Certificate – E Dental Assisting, Diploma – S Dental Assisting Expanded Functions, Certificate – S Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, AAS – S Diagnostic Medical Sonography, AAS – S Emergency Medical Services, AAS, Certificate – E, CE Emergency Medical Technician, Certificate – E Exercise Science and Kinesiology Transfer Major, AA – E Health Information Management, AAS – O Medical Assistant, Diploma – S Phlebotomy – S, CE Practical Nursing, Diploma – E Pre-Health Professional Pathway, AA, AS – E Pre-Chiropractic Pathway, AA, AS – E Pre-Dental Hygiene, AAS – E Radiologic Technology, AAS – S Respiratory Care, AAS – E Surgical Technology, AAS – S Veterinary Technician, AAS – M
Human Services and Education Education and Training
Agriculture Education Transfer Major, AA, AS – E Associate of Science, AS – E American Sign Language - English Interpreting, AAS – S Deaf Studies, Certificate – S Early Childhood Education, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – M, S Early Childhood Teacher Licensure Transfer Major, AA – E Elementary Education Transfer Major, AA – E Liberal Arts, AA – E, O Secondary Education Transfer Major, AA – E
Hospitality and Tourism
Baking, Certificate – M, S Culinary Arts Apprenticeship, AAS – M, S Culinary Arts, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – M, S Event Management, Certificate – M, S Hospitality Management, AAS – M, S Hospitality Skills, Diploma, Certificate – M, S
Human Services
Human and Family Services Transfer Major, AA – E Psychology Transfer Major, AA – E Social Work Transfer Major, AA – E Sociology Transfer Major, AA – E
Industrial Technology Architecture and Construction
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Diploma – S Mechanical Design Technology, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E y Solid Modeling, Certificate – E
Manufacturing
CNC Machining, AAS – S CNC Manual Machining, Certificate – S CNC Programming, Certificate – S Engineering Technology, AAS – E y Basic Electricity, Certificate – E y Basic Electronics, Certificate – E y Electromechanical, Diploma – E y Electrical Systems, Diploma – E y Process Control Technology, Certificate – E Welding, AAS, Diploma, Certificates – S
Information Solutions Data Analytics, Certificate – O Augmented and Virtual Reality, AAS, Diploma – S, O Cybersecurity, AAS, Certificate – E, O Networking for Cybersecurity, Diploma – E, O Networking for Systems and Security, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Programming, AAS, Diploma – E, O Web Development, AAS – E, O
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Biology Transfer Major, AS – E Chemistry Transfer Major, AS – E Mathematics Transfer Major, AS – E Physics Transfer Major, AS – E Renewable Energy Systems Specialist, AAS – E Technical Studies, AAS – E
Transportation Technology Auto Collision Repair Technology, Diploma, Certificate – S Automotive Technology, AAS, Diploma – S Automotive Technology Service, Certificate – S Diesel Technology, AAS, Diploma – S y Diesel - Heavy Duty Maintenance, Certificate – S y Diesel - Truck Electrical, Certificate – S Truck Driving, Certificate – S, CE
Online Classes Anytime, 24/7
Administrative Office Professional, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Augmented and Virtual Reality, AAS, Diploma – S, O Cancer Information Management, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – O Cybersecurity, AAS, Certificate – E, O Environmental Health and Safety, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Graphic Arts Technology, AAS, Diploma – O y Digital Photography Certificate – O Health Information Management, AAS – O Inventory Control, Certificate – O Logistics and Transportation, Certificate – O Networking for Cybersecurity, Diploma – E, O Networking for Systems and Security, AAS, Diploma, Certificate – E, O Programming, AAS, Diploma – E, O Supply Chain and Logistics, AAS, Diploma – O Web Development, AAS – E, O
Live Online
Data Analytics, Certificate – O Liberal Arts, AA – E, O
Explore all our Guided Pathways at eicc.edu/programs THE Community's College | MAGAZINE 15
If you like what you see here, there’s even more online! In partnership with our THE Community’s College Magazine in print form, we also have an online edition with expanded content and video features.
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Check it out at eicc.edu/TCCMagazine
eicc.edu/social
Your Window Is Still Take advantage of flat-rate tuition! For the first time ever, full-time students taking 12 credit hours on-campus can take six additional hours, for a total of 18, at no extra cost. Plus, anyone enrolled in 12+ credit hours will have access to a laptop or Hot Spot, courtesy of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges.
Fall Classes Start August 23 Enroll today and save on tuition dollars this fall!
Register at eicc.edu/fall2021 or call toll-free 1-888-336-3907 | Email eiccinfo@eicc.edu
