News Release

Creston, IOWA—The Southwestern Community College men’s basketball team made history on Saturday, March 25, 2017, in Danville, IL, by earning the college's first-ever National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) national championship!  The Spartans defeated Louisburg College, from North Carolina, with a score of 77-53, to become the 2017 NJCAA DII National Men's Basketball Champions. 

Selena Sampson, a student at Southwestern Community College (SWCC), has been named a 2017 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Silver Scholar.  The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver and 50 Bronze Scholars, and providing nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually.  Each Silver Scholar receives a $1,250 scholarship and a special medallion.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 14, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center.

A public hearing was held for the college’s fiscal year 2018 budget.  No oral or written objections or petitions were heard or submitted.  The board approved the budget as presented.

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) students Rebekah Kroese of Lenox, Selena Sampson of Creston, and Ana Vasquez of Osceola, were honored as members of the 2017 All-Iowa Academic Team during a recognition ceremony held Wed., March 1, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., at the Embassy Suites in Des Moines.

Creston—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus. 

The board set a public hearing for review and approval of the college’s fiscal year 2018 budget.  The public hearing was set for March 14, 2017, at 5:30 p.m., in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

Iowa Department of Education
News Release
Feb. 10, 2017    
Contact:    Staci Hupp
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Impact contributed $5.4 billion in income, equivalent to creating 107,170 new jobs

DES MOINES – Iowa’s community colleges provide a solid return on investment for both students and the state, according to a statewide analysis of the colleges’ economic impact. The newly released study, Analysis of the Economic Impact and Return on Investment of Education, found that Iowa’s community colleges collectively contributed $5.4 billion into the state’s economy and supported 107,170 jobs - roughly 6 percent of all jobs in Iowa - during fiscal year 2014-15.

The independent study, conducted by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI), utilized academic and financial reports from the community colleges, as well as earnings and employment outcomes data from the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Workforce Development.

Creston, IA—Tom Lesan, Southwestern Community College (SWCC) vice president of economic development, was honored at the college’s all-staff in-service, held on Friday, Jan. 13, 2017, for achieving 35 years of service to the institution.  

Creston— The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met on Tues., January 10, 2017, at 8 a.m. in the president’s office in the Administration Center for their regular monthly board meeting. 

During the meeting, the board approved the early retirement request of Jason Smith, SWCC professional music instructor, at the end of his current contract.  Smith has been a music instructor at the college since August 1992.    

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The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees held their regular board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center.

During the meeting, board members voted to receipt and file the college’s Audit Report as presented.

CRESTON — The TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program at Southwestern Community College is hosting an ACT Boot Camp on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., in the college’s Instructional Center, room 220, to assist high school students in preparation for the ACT Test.

Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds & Director Townsend Highlight Apprenticeship Appreciation and Awareness Week - Events planned throughout Iowa Nov. 14-20, 2016

DES MOINES – Gov. Terry Branstad, Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds, and Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend encourage Iowans to explore registered apprenticeship opportunities, including those offered by Southwestern Community College's electrical technology program, during Registered Apprenticeship Appreciation and Awareness Week, November 14-20, 2016.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met electronically on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016, at 8 a.m. in the president’s office in the college’s Administration Center.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) Chamber Singers will be touring in the Des Moines area the week of Nov. 28-Dec. 2, 2016, presenting “Holiday Carols in Concert” with carols and masterworks by Mendelssohn, Rutter, Poulenc, Mattson, Hogan, and Sirett.  The public is invited to attend.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016, at 5:30 p.m., in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

During the meeting, Ken Rech of Red Oak was re-elected as president of the college’s board.  Rech has been president of the board since 2008.  Dr. Tony Cass of Creston was elected as the board’s vice president.  Cass was first elected to the role of vice president in 2015.  SWCC Assistant to the President Mary Jo Skarda was appointed as board secretary and SWCC Chief Financial Officer Tia Samo was appointed as board treasurer.

CRESTON, IOWA – (October 4, 2016) – Southwestern Community College’s Educational Talent Search (ETS) program invites high school seniors and their parents to attend Creston’s FAFSA Ready Iowa to complete college financial aid paperwork on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016, from 3-7 p.m., in the college’s Instructional Center, rooms 208 and 210.

High school and college students are invited to attend the Creston College Fair on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016, from 9:30–11 a.m., at the Creston High School Gymnasium, 601 West Townline Street, in Creston.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

Phil Tyler, Tyler Insurance Services, Inc., spoke with the board about the college’s insurance coverage.  Tyler noted an increase of 2 percent in the college’s property blanket coverage due primarily to an across-the-board inflation guard on the policy.  Tyler said the college’s Worker’s Compensation Modification Factor decreased from 1.04 to 1.03.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met on Tues., August 9, 2016, at 8 a.m. at the president’s office in the college’s Administration Center.

CRESTON—Southwestern Community College (SWCC) recently received word from the United States Department of Education that funding has been renewed for the college’s Educational Talent Search (ETS) program.  The grant, for $1.8 million, will be funded at $379,200 per year for five years.  This is an increase of $149,300 per year from the previous grant, which was a total of $1.15 million over five years.

The Iowa Community College Online Consortium (ICCOC), of which Southwestern Community College is a member, recently adopted Canvas by Instructure as its new Learning Management System (LMS).  

A Learning Management System is an online learning platform for teaching and learning.  Prior to this switch, the ICCOC utilized Pearson Learning Studio as its platform.  A pilot will begin in the spring of 2017 and Canvas will be fully deployed by fall 2017.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, July 12, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the college’s Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

A public hearing was held on the remodeling project planned for room 220 of the Instructional Center.  No oral or written objections or petitions were heard or submitted.

CRESTON — Southwestern Community College (SWCC) student Daniel Leonard of Mount Ayr placed first in the nation for electrical construction wiring at the 2016 SkillsUSA Championships held June 20-24, 2016, in Louisville, KY. 

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, June 14, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

The board recessed early in the meeting to hold a Collective Bargaining Strategy Session.

May 17, 2016, Des Moines, IOWA -  Elevate Advanced Manufacturing, a non-profit initiative spreading the word about gainful career opportunities in manufacturing, has awarded 12-$500 scholarships to recent Iowa high school graduates entering manufacturing-related courses of study at Iowa’s 15 community colleges.  Kollyn Buch of Clarinda, who will attend Southwestern Community College in the fall, is one of the recipients.  Buch will major in industrial technology.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tues., May 10, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the SWCC Administration Center for their regular monthly board meeting.

During the meeting, Tia Samo, SWCC chief financial officer, spoke to the board regarding refinancing of the college’s 2010 dorm revenue bonds due to the availability of lower interest rates.  According to Samo, the new rate would allow the college to save $166,000 over the life of the bonds.  Maggie Burger, senior vice president of Speer Financial, Inc., was in attendance at the meeting.  Burger explained to the board that advanced refunding occurs prior to the scheduled call date on the bonds.  The call date for these particular bonds is June 1, 2017.  Following the explanations provided by Samo and Burger, the board approved the resolution directing the sale and delivery of $2,039,000 dormitory revenue refunding bonds, series 2016, as well as the resolution appointing trustee, approving the trust indenture, and authorizing the execution of same as presented.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, April 12, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

CRESTON—High school freshmen who participate in the Educational Talent Search (ETS) program will have the opportunity to take part in an overnight campus visit on Tues., May 10, at the Southwestern Community College Creston campus.  Space is limited to the first 20 participants.  

The Southwestern Community College board of trustees held its regular meeting on Tues., March 8, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center.

A public hearing was held for the college’s fiscal year 2017 budget.  No oral or written objections or petitions were heard or submitted.  The board approved the budget as presented.

Southwestern Community College is celebrating its 50th anniversary during 2016.  The college will host a come and go Open House on Sat., April 16, from 2-4 p.m. in the Student Center, on the Creston campus, 1501 W Townline Street, in celebration of this milestone.  The public is invited.

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) students Garrett Abell, of Cromwell, and Blythe Beck, of Sharpsburg, were honored as members of the 2016 All-Iowa Academic Team during a recognition ceremony held Wed., March 2, 2016, 6:30 p.m., at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown in Des Moines.

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) sophomore Tom Hol, from Osceola, was elected as vice president of the southwest district for the Phi Theta Kappa Iowa Region during the Iowa Regional Convention, held February 26-27, at the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Urbandale.

Ken Rech, president of the Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees, was honored for 35 years of service to community colleges during an Awards Banquet at the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT) 2016 Conference at the Embassy Suites in Des Moines on Mon., February 22, 2016, at 6:30 p.m.

The Real Group, a world renowned five-member a cappella ensemble from Sweden, will be performing two concerts on Fri., April 8, at 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., at Southwestern Community College’s Performing Arts Center in Creston.  The performances are open to the public.  Tickets are $25 each.

Creston—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Wed., February 10, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

The board set a public hearing for review and approval of the college’s fiscal year 2017 budget.  The public hearing was set for March 8, 2016, at 5:30 p.m., in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

February 16, 2016, Des Moines, IOWA - Elevate Advanced Manufacturing, a non-profit initiative spreading the word about career opportunities in manufacturing, is offering 15-$500 scholarships to Iowa high school seniors interested in studying a manufacturing-related career at one of Iowa’s 15 community colleges including Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston.  One award will be made per college region.

DES MOINES—Nearly 250 community college students and leaders participated in the 28th IACCT Student Legislative Seminar at the Holiday Inn, Mercy Campus, on January 27, and the State Capitol on January 28. The theme of the seminar was "Representing Yourself," focusing on the leadership qualities and personal skills necessary to participate in governance and be successful in a career. Sessions included dialoguing with legislators, understanding security issues and honing Caucus skills.

Creston—Southwestern Community College (SWCC) announced January 19, 2016, Tia Samo of Lenox has been named as the college’s next chief financial officer. Samo replaces Randy Cook, who left the college in December.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met on Tues., January 12, 2016, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center. 

In personnel, the board approved the hiring of Susannah Miller as agriculture instructor for the 2016-17 academic year.  Miller has been an agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor at Murray Community High School in Murray since 2006.

The board approved the early retirement requests of SWCC employees Cheryl Blazek, emergency services and health related programs coordinator, and Sarah Smith, Red Oak Center coordinator.  Blazek has served in the college’s adult and continuing education department since 1999.  She was hired at SWCC as an EMS coordinator prior to moving into her current role.  She has also been an adjunct instructor for the college.  Her last day of employment will be February 7, 2016.  Smith, who was hired at the college in 1996 as satellite manager before moving into her current role, will finish at the college on June 30, 2016.  Smith has been an adjunct instructor for the college as well.

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) will induct Rita Schroeder, longtime volleyball coach, graduate, and student-athlete, as its third member of the college’s Athletic Hall of Fame during a ceremony on Sat., January 23, 2016, at approximately 2:30 p.m., prior to the men’s basketball game vs Iowa Lakes, which is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m., in the college’s Student Center gymnasium.

Creston, IA—CHS Processing and Food Ingredients, Creston, recently donated an Epson interactive whiteboard to Southwestern Community College’s (SWCC’s) agricultural department.  This technology-enabled whiteboard has been installed in a classroom at the college’s Ag Site.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees held their regular board meeting on Tues., December 8, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center.

During the meeting, the board appointed Mary Jo Skarda as interim board treasurer, replacing Randy Cook, who recently resigned his position as chief financial officer at the college.  Skarda will serve in this position until a new chief financial officer is hired and appointed.

The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met on Tues., November 10, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center.

The board voted to reinstate the college’s early retirement policy for employees. The policy has an April 1, 2016, application deadline for employees. Currently, there are 23 staff members who are eligible to apply for early retirement. The expiration date for this plan is June 30, 2016. This is the same early retirement plan the board has approved since 2010.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met in special session on Tues., October 27, at 8 a.m. in the president’s office of the Administration Center.

During the meeting, the board reviewed quotes from two companies for completion of the asbestos abatement project in the 200-bay of the Instructional Center.  College administration had first explained this project to the board during the regular October board meeting, following discovery of the presence of asbestos in ceiling materials during renovation of the 200-bay.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, October 13, 2015, at 5:30 p.m., in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

Southwestern Community College (SWCC) is pleased to announce the launch of Career Coach, a free online tool that allows students and community members to explore potential careers.  Career Coach may be accessed by visiting the Career-Related Services page on SWCC’s website. 

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met Tuesday, September 8, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

Jolene Griffith, SWCC director of human resources, briefed the board regarding revisions made to the Quality Faculty Plan.  The Quality Faculty Plan, in accordance with Iowa Code, has been in place since 2003 to assure the hiring and developing of quality faculty members at the college.  Following Griffith’s presentation, the board approved the Quality Faculty Plan as presented.

Scientific studies reveal a strong link between random acts of kindness and overall good health, including stress reduction and happiness. Students at four of Iowa’s community colleges will get the opportunity to benefit from this when Ricky Smith, comedian, visits campus this month.  One of his stops will be Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston, where he will perform Tues., September 15, at noon in the Student Center.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met on Tues., August 11, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

Creston, IA—Jerry Smith, Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees member from Osceola, received the 2015 John P. Kibbie Award during the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT) annual conference held at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa from July 22-24, 2015.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met electronically on Tuesday, July 14, 2015, at 8:30 a.m. in the president’s office of the Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met in special session, by phone, on Tuesday, June 23, 2015, at 5 p.m.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, June 9, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tues., May 12, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the SWCC Administration Center for their regular monthly board meeting.

During the meeting, the board held a public hearing for phase three of the Instructional Center Renovation Project, which will include renovation of the classrooms in the 200-bay hallway.  Three bids were received for the project.  According to Tom Lesan, SWCC vice president of economic development, architects estimated the project cost at $1.375 million.  Following review of the bids, the board approved the lowest bid of $841,365 from Camblin Mechanical of Atlantic.  Lesan told the board a completion date of September 14, 2015, or sooner is projected.

CRESTON, IA— Five Southwestern Community College (SWCC) students placed at the Business Professionals of America (BPA)--Iowa Association, Spring Leadership Conference, February 22-24, 2015, in Des Moines.  These students earned the right to compete at the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA, from May 6-10, 2015. 

CRESTON — Southwestern Community College (SWCC) came home with two gold medal finishes following the Iowa SkillsUSA 2015 competition in Ankeny on April 30-May 1, 2015.  Daniel Leonard of Clearfield, a first year electrical technology student at SWCC, finished first in the electrical construction wiring division of competition.  Asa Denton of Creston, a first year carpentry and building trades student at SWCC, finished first in the carpentry division of the contest.

Winners of the 2015 Creston Rotary Scholarships to Southwestern Community College (SWCC) were recently announced at a luncheon at Greater Regional Medical Center in Creston.  Twelve students, all either current seniors or graduates of Creston High School, were awarded $300 scholarships to the college through the Southwestern Community College Education Foundation (EF).

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

The board set a public hearing for May 12, 2015, at 5:30 p.m., in the Administration Center, to review bids for phase three of the Instructional Center renovation project.  Tom Lesan, SWCC vice president of economic development, said this phase of the project will include installing windows and LED lighting in the classrooms in the 200 bay hallway, as well as remodeling the restrooms in the main hallway to be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible.  The estimated cost for this phase will be $1.375 million.

Creston’s local insurance agents, Greater Regional Medical Center, and Southwestern Community College (SWCC) are combining forces to provide FREE education and training for individuals in CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).

The Southwestern Community College board of trustees held its regular meeting on Tues., March 10, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

A public hearing was held for the college’s fiscal year 2016 budget.  No oral or written objections or petitions were heard or submitted.  The board approved the budget as presented.

Southwestern Community College students Dawn Daily and Zack Peppmeier were honored as members of the 2015 All-Iowa Academic Team during a recognition ceremony held Wed., March 4, 2015, at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown in Des Moines.

Southwestern Community College's (SWCC’s) auto collision repair/refinish program came home with first place honors in the Pedal Car Challenge, part of the 60th Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts World of Wheels, held February 27-March 1, 2015, at the Century Link Center in Omaha, NE.

Creston, IA—Southwestern Community College (SWCC) cross country and track and field coach Bill Huntington has announced he is leaving the college for a position as high school principal (grades seven-12) at Sidney Community School in western Iowa.  Huntington will be exiting the college in May and begin his position in Sidney in July 2015.

Huntington has coached cross country for the Spartans since inception of the program in 2006.  In 2012, he was hired by the college’s admissions department as a career and technical education recruiter.  Track and field was added during the summer of 2012 and Huntington began coaching that team as well.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) Education Foundation is excited to announce the addition of ten annual scholarships, through the H. Dale and Lois Bright Foundation, allowing qualifying students to graduate from college debt-free.  The Bright Scholars of Iowa awards are available to Iowa high school seniors who are strong academically but may lack the financial means to earn college degrees.

Creston, IA—Two teams of students from Southwestern Community College’s (SWCC) agricultural department represented the college at statewide competitions, during the Post-Secondary Ag Student Organization (PAS) Spring Conference, held February 4-5, 2015, at Honey Creek Resort in Moravia.  

Volunteers at SWCC to Help Families Fill Out FAFSA

Iowa students and their families can get free assistance with forms required to file federal financial aid during an Iowa College Goal Sunday event, at Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston on Wed., February 25, from 3-7 p.m. in room 119 of the Technical Center.  Students planning to attend any college are welcome to participate in this event.  

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met electronically on Tues., February 10, 2015, at 8:30 a.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus. 

The board set a public hearing for review and approval of the college’s fiscal year 2016 budget.  Randy Cook, SWCC chief financial officer, said the estimated taxation rate for the coming year will be $.079922 per $1,000 taxable valuation.  The public hearing was set for March 10, 2015, at 5:30 p.m., in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

Free Help Available for College Financial Aid

Iowa students and their families can get free assistance with forms required to file federal financial aid during an Iowa College Goal Sunday event, at Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston on Wed., February 25, from 3-7 p.m. in room 119 of the Technical Center.  Students planning to attend any college are welcome to participate in this event.  

Creston— The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met on Tues., January 13, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center. 

The board voted to extend the college’s early retirement policy for employees through June 30, 2015.  Dr. Barb Crittenden, SWCC president, stated there are 26 staff members eligible for early retirement.  The college’s early retirement policy has an April 1, 2015, application deadline.

Creston, IA—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) agricultural department is hosting the Iowa State University Extension’s Three-State Beef Conference on Tues., January 13, 2015, from 5:30-8:45 p.m., at the SWCC ag site, north of the college’s Creston campus.

CRESTON — The TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program at Southwestern Community College is offering free ACT Test prep courses for all ETS high school participants the morning of Sat., January 10, 2015.    

The Iowa Department of Management and Public Health is pleased to announce that the SWCC Parents as Teachers (PAT), Southwestern Community College of Adair and Union counties has earned the Iowa Family Support Credential.  The SWCC PAT program is the 54th Iowa program to earn this honored distinction.  The Iowa Family Support Credential is awarded to family support and parent education programs that are validated through an external evaluation to be in substantial adherence to the Iowa Family Support Standards.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, October 14, 2014, at 5:30 p.m., in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

During the meeting, Ken Rech of Red Oak was re-elected as president of the college’s board.  Rech has been president of the board since 2008.  Dennis Davis of Greenfield was re-elected as the board’s vice president.  SWCC Assistant to the President Mary Jo Skarda was re-appointed as board secretary, SWCC Chief Financial Officer Randy Cook was appointed as board treasurer, and Jerry Smith, board member from Osceola, was re-appointed as SWCC’s Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT) representative.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met in special session on Tues., October 7, at 8:30 a.m. in the president’s office of the Administration Center. 

During the meeting, the board voted to terminate the college’s auditor contract with Draper, Snodgrass, Mikkelsen & Co., P.C.  Prior to the vote, Dr. Barb Crittenden, SWCC president, explained to the board that Randy Cook, who was recently named SWCC’s chief financial officer, has an ownership interest in Draper, Snodgrass, Mikkelsen & Co., P.C.  Crittenden stated in order to avoid a potential conflict of interest, due to the hiring of Cook, the contract with Draper, Snodgrass, Mikkelsen, & Co would need to be terminated.    

The SWCC board then reviewed bids from four firms for the college’s audit services.  The board approved the lowest bid, from Denman & Company, LLP, of West Des Moines.  Bids from Denman & Company were $36,900 for year ending June 30, 2014, $37,400 for year ending June 30, 2015, and $37,900 for year ending June 30, 2016.

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An innovative plan developed by Iowa’s community colleges to train thousands of workers in high-demand fields is being recognized with a $15 million grant announced Monday by the U.S. Department of Labor.

A consortium, consisting of all 15 Iowa community colleges, jointly applied for funding to build training capacity in the areas of information technology, healthcare, utilities, and manufacturing – also known as the IHUM Network.  Grant funds will be used statewide to create more than 45 additional training certificates in the IHUM targeted areas.

Southwestern Community College’s (SWCC) portion of the grant, $1 million, will be used to assist in the implementation of a high-tech simulation lab on-campus for the college’s esteemed nursing programs—licensed practical nursing and registered nursing—as well as SWCC’s health-related continuing education programs.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) marketing department received two Medallion Awards at the District 5 National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) Conference, held in Des Moines, from September 21-23.

The SWCC team won a Gold Medallion Award in the "Viewbook" category and a Bronze Medallion Award in the “Radio Advertisement/PSA Single” category.  

Terry Wangberg, early childhood program director at Southwestern Community College (SWCC) in Creston, has been named the 2014 Iowa Children’s Champion.  The award is given by the Region VII Head Start Association.

CRESTON—Southwestern Community College (SWCC) will sponsor the 2014 SmartStart Kickoff for high school students from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2014, on the SWCC Creston campus.  

The event—an open house for students—will be a great chance for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to check out SWCC and its campus!  Students will be able to sit in on college classes, visit program areas, talk with instructors and students, and tour the residence halls.  High school students in attendance will receive lunch, a SWCC T-shirt, and have the opportunity to win door prizes.  The college will be awarding two-$250 SWCC scholarships for senior attendees.

Creston, IA—Southwestern Community College (SWCC) has announced Creston’s Randy Cook will be the college’s next chief financial officer (CFO), replacing Teresa Krejci, who recently relocated to Des Moines after serving as the college’s CFO since 1997.

Cook, a certified public accountant, received his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1987 from Northwest Missouri State University.  He has been employed as an audit manager by Draper, Snodgrass, Mikkelsen & Co., P.C. since June 1994.  Prior to that, he was the senior accountant for Harold Voggesser, CPA.  Cook is a 1982 graduate of Creston High School and a 1984 graduate of SWCC.

Elevate Advanced Manufacturing, a statewide outreach campaign to promote careers and training in advanced manufacturing, announced Gibson Memorial Library in Creston, is the recipient of a $500 grant to implement programming to educate young people and their parents about the varied career opportunities in advanced manufacturing.

The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met on Tues., August 12, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the college’s Administration Center.

CRESTON — Southwestern Community College (SWCC) automotive collision repair/refinish students Zach Mullen of New Market and Garrett Hogue of Lenox took home second and fifth place finishes respectively at the 2014 SkillsUSA Championships held June 25-26, 2014, in Kansas City, MO.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, July 8, 2014, at 8:30 a.m. in the president’s office of the Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

The board approved the annual dues of $3,288 to the Higher Learning Commission, Chicago, IL.

Tom Lesan, SWCC vice president for economic development, reported to the board regarding progress being made at Spartan Court, the new residence hall being constructed on campus.  Lesan said the concrete work is near completion and progress continues to take place on finishing the inside of the building.

Beth Kulow, SWCC dean of student services, reported the college’s summer 2014 enrollment is 517 students.  Kulow stated this was an increase of 35 students from summer 2013.

Lesan said an insurance adjustor was expected to be on campus later in the day July 8 to inspect the water damage in the Administration Center.  The damage happened on Sun., June 22, following a break in a water line leading into the Administration Center.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tuesday, June 10, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center for their regular board meeting.

Bill Taylor, SWCC vice president of instruction, talked to the board regarding a proposal to partner with Union County Habitat for Humanity for the third year on construction of a house during the 2014-15 school year by SWCC’s high school carpentry program in Creston.  Students from area high schools are eligible to enroll in the high school carpentry program.  The Habitat for Humanity house will be built at 622 North Birch Street in Creston.  The board authorized the college to enter into the building partnership agreement. 

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met on Tues., May 13, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the SWCC Administration Center for their regular monthly board meeting.

During the meeting, the board approved a resolution directing the sale and delivery of $5.34 million in Dormitory Revenue Bonds to D.A. Davidson & Co. in Des Moines.  Larry Burger, vice president of Speer Financial, Inc., spoke with the board, stating that following Speer Financial’s examination, it was their recommendation for approval of the bid.  It was noted that Moody’s Investors Service has assigned a rating of A3 to the bonds, which have a true interest rate of 3.8748 percent.

CRESTON — Southwestern Community College auto collision repair/refinish students Garrett Hogue of Lenox and Zach Mullen of New Market took home first place honors at the Iowa SkillsUSA 2014 competition in Ankeny on Fri., May 2, 2014.

Hogue was named gold medalist in collision repair technology and Mullen was named gold medalist in automotive refinishing technology.  They will now head to represent Iowa at the national competition, which will be held during the National Leadership and Skills Conference, June 23-27, 2014, in Kansas City, MO.  The two SWCC students were honored at the state contest for outstanding academic achievement as well, due to maintaining 3.5 or higher cumulative college grade point averages.

Creston, IA—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of trustees met electronically in special session on Mon., April 28, 2014, at 8:30 a.m. in the board room of the college’s Administration Center to approve the Preliminary Official Statement of the 2014 revenue bonds and to call the 2006 revenue bonds, as well as the 2006 and 2010 loans from the Southern Iowa Council of Governments.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

Tom Lesan, SWCC vice president of economic development, spoke with the board concerning callable bonds the college has with Fansteel/Wellman Dynamics and Farley’s and Sathers for 2006, as well as Astoria Industries of Iowa, Pinnacle Ethanol, Precision, Inc. and Precision Optical for 2007.  Lesan explained that by paying the bonds off early there will be a total savings of $63,605.  Following Lesan’s explanation, the board approved the “Resolution Authorizing Redemption of Outstanding Bonds and Directing Notice be Given” for all of the callable bonds:
•    $725,000 Industrial New Jobs Training Certificates (2006-1 Multiple Project), Series 2006-1A
•    $1,120,000 Industrial New Jobs Training Certificates(2006-1 Multiple Project), Series 2006-1B
•    $425,000 Industrial New Jobs Training Certificates (2007-1 Multiple Project), Series 2007-1A
•    $830,000 Industrial New Jobs Training Certificates (2007-1 Multiple Project), Series 2007-1B

The work of approximately 80 Southwestern Community College (SWCC) students will be on display during Poster Day, on Tues., April 22, 2014, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the upstairs of the SWCC Student Center on the Creston campus.

The work of Southwestern Community College (SWCC) art and design students will be on display from April 19-May 8, 2014, during the SWCC Student Art Exhibition at the Warren Cultural Center, 154 Public Square, in Greenfield.  An opening reception will be held on Sat., April 19, from 12-2 p.m.  Light refreshments will be served.

The Southwestern Community College board of trustees held its regular March 2014 meeting on Tues., March 11, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the college’s Administration Center.

Teresa Krejci, SWCC chief financial officer, presented to the board regarding the fiscal year 2015 budget.  Krejci said the estimated taxation rate per $1,000 of taxable valuation will be slightly less than last year, at $0.79617 per $1,000 for fiscal year 2015, as opposed to $0.79675 per $1,000 for fiscal year 2014.  According to Krejci, the college’s total property tax asking will continue to represent 2.5 percent or less of a property owner’s total property tax.  The board approved the college’s fiscal year 2015 budget as presented by Krejci.

The Southwestern Community College board of trustees held a special meeting on February 27, 2014, to discuss and approve plans related to Spartan Court, the residence hall being constructed on campus.

Public hearings were held for the fire sprinkler and electrical bid packages. No oral or written objections were heard or submitted for either project.

Jackson, MS – Fifty-one community college students from the United States, Canada, and American Samoa have been named 2014 New Century Scholars – receiving a total of $100,000 in scholarships. Megan Doubleday, Southwestern Community College (SWCC) sophomore from Mt. Ayr, is among the nationwide honorees.  The New Century Scholars Program is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Foundation, Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, Phi Theta Kappa, and the American Association of Community Colleges.

Doubleday, who will graduate from SWCC with her associate of arts degree in May 2014, plans to attend Iowa State University in the fall.  She will major in elementary education with an endorsement in math.  While a student at SWCC, she has been active in Student Senate (president), Dazzlers dance team (co-captain), student ambassadors, Phi Theta Kappa (vice president of fellowship), work-study, and tutoring.  Doubleday is a May 2012 Mt. Ayr High School graduate.

The Southwestern Community College Education Foundation scholarship application for 2014-15 is now available on the SWCC website at www.swcciowa.edu/scholarships. All new and returning students for fall 2014 semester are encouraged to apply! Applications are due to the SWCC Education Foundation office on or before March 17, 2014, at 5 p.m. CDT.

Creston—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) board of directors met Tuesday, February 11, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the Administration Center on the Creston campus.

During the meeting, the board held public hearings for numerous construction projects related to Spartan Court, the new three-story residence hall currently under construction on the college’s campus. 

Creston, IOWA—Two great artists, Phil Mattson and Michele Weir, will, as a duo, headline the Southwestern Community College (SWCC) 17th annual vocal jazz festival, now titled Fox Fest. Both artists will perform in concert on Friday, February 21, and Saturday, February 22, at 7:30 p.m., in the Performing Arts Center.  Limited tickets will be available to the public each night at a cost of $25 per ticket.  

CRESTON, IA—The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) Relay for Life team is hosting a Pink Out on Wed., February 19, 2014, during the women's and men's basketball games vs. Iowa Central in the SWCC Student Center.  The women's game begins at 5:30 p.m. and the men's game follows at 7:30 p.m.

Activities and games are planned throughout the evening.  Representatives from Greater Regional Medical Center will be on-hand with cancer-related information and materials.  Pink smoothies will be on sale at the event.

All proceeds from the SWCC Pink Out will go toward SWCC's Relay for Life effort.  Funds raised during Relay for Life go to the American Cancer Society.  According to the Relay for Life Web site, "Each year, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer through the Relay For Life movement."

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Creston, IA—Three teams of students from Southwestern Community College’s (SWCC) agricultural department represented the college at statewide competitions, during the Post-Secondary Ag Student Organization (PAS) Spring Conference, held February 6-7, 2014, at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls.  

CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA (Feb. 4, 2014) — Iowa students and families can get free assistance with forms required for federal financial aid at Iowa College Goal Sunday, held throughout February and March in 38 Iowa locations.  Southwestern Community College in Creston will host a College Goal Sunday event on Wed., February 19, 2014, from 3-7 p.m. in room 119 of the Technical Center.

Creston— The Southwestern Community College board of trustees met on Tues., January 14, 2014, at 5:30 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Center.

The board tentatively approved the proposed plans, specifications, form of contract and estimate of total cost for paving, walks, and site amenities; landscaping; slabs and stair pan fill; gypcrete; masonry; finish carpentry; insulation; EIFS; siding, soffits, fascia, gutters, and downspouts; roofing; aluminum entrances and storefront; gypsum board; acoustical ceilings; flooring; painting; fire sprinkler; mechanical; and electrical for the dormitory project subject to final approval following public hearings which were set for February 11, 2014, beginning at 5:30 p.m., in the board room at Southwestern Community College.

CRESTON — The TRIO Educational Talent Search (ETS) program at Southwestern Community College is offering free ACT Test prep courses for all ETS high school participants the morning of Sat., January 11, 2014.    

Two options are available for students who choose to attend:  
Option 1 – 8 a.m. to noon.  Students who choose Option 1 will be participating in a mock exam consisting of the same conditions as the official ACT exam.  
Option 2 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Students who choose Option 2 will attend three break-out sessions (math, English/reading, and science).