Meet Cherie: expertly juggling motherhood and classes while pursuing a career in healthcare.

Cherie is a student in Northwest Iowa Community College’s nursing program, but she’s pursuing more than a degree. She will be the first in her family to graduate from college, and she wants to use her education to provide compassionate, quality care. As a mother of three, she’s showing her kids that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. 

Cherie was recognized for her leadership and academic achievement when named to the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society’s 2026 All-Iowa Academic Team. Thanks for all your hard work, Cherie! 

Already an exemplary student, Lisa’s goal is to make other people comfortable through service with a degree in Business Administration concentrated in Hospitality and Tourism. She has demonstrated a go-getter attitude and a passion for creating inclusive environments during her time at Iowa Valley Community College by participating in multiple Edge programs and the Iowa Regional Leadership Conference. She’s excited to be transferring to a four-year college to complete her bachelor’s degree, and we are excited to see how her career blossoms from there!

Erika earned more than just a degree in her time at @Iowa Central Community college— she has been the president of the Phi Theta Kappa society as well as the student ambassador program, while being an R.A. and a drum major in the college’s marching band. When not in school, she is employed at two local businesses part-time, as well as a church camp during the summer where she serves as a counselor and a lifeguard. She’ll have to start a whole new scrapbook when she transfers to Iowa State this fall to major in Criminal Justice!