Alumni & Friends Association
The Alumni & Friends Association at Iowa Lakes Community College, established in 1989, is dedicated to fostering a strong, supportive network of individuals who are passionate about the college’s mission. Whether you're a graduate, former student, parent, or simply a fan of Iowa Lakes, you're invited to be part of this vibrant and growing community.
The Association plays a vital role in promoting engagement, providing valuable resources to students and alumni, and building lifelong connections. Members are encouraged to stay involved by updating their contact information and sharing their personal and professional journeys, helping to strengthen the bond between past, present, and future Lakers.
Who Can Join?
Whether you’re an alum, a parent, a friend of the college, or a community supporter, if you care about Iowa Lakes, you’re eligible to join. This inclusive approach helps build a diverse and loyal network committed to student success and college advancement.
Alumni & Friends MEMBER BENEFITS
As a member, you’ll enjoy opportunities to:
- Participate in special events and activities
- Receive E-Newsletters (with email subscription)
- Stay connected through Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social platforms
- Network with alumni, students, and college supporters
IMPACT OF YOUR INVOLVEMENT
Your membership dues and engagement help fund:
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Student Scholarships - Supporting students in achieving their educational dreams
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Alumni Communications & Activities - Newsletters, event promotions, and outreach efforts
Activities & Recognitions
The Association sponsors and supports various activities and recognition programs, such as:
- Students Today, Alumni & Friends Forever
- Jim Hall Award & Athletic Hall of Fame
- Alumni Outreach & Networking Opportunities
Jim Hall Outstanding Alumni Award
The Jim Hall Outstanding Alumni Award was established in 1992 by the Iowa Lakes Alumni & Friends Association. Jim attended the Estherville School District graduating from high school in 1966. After graduating from Iowa Lakes Community College in 1968, he attended the University of Wyoming for one year and graduated from Mankato State University in 1972.
Jim married Sylvia Groenewold, and together, they owned and operated Hall’s Decorating in Estherville. Jim was a strong supporter of Iowa Lakes Community College, serving as an assistant football coach and an active Century Club member for many years.
This award is presented annually at the Spring Commencement Ceremony to Iowa Lakes Alumni, who are excellent representatives of the college exhibiting outstanding support of the community, business, and/or service clubs.
2026 Recipient - Melissa Studer, Ruthven, Iowa
2025 - Scott Nolte, Radio Personality, Spencer, Iowa
2024 - Carlton Mitchell, High School Administrator, Orleans, IA
2023 - Jeremy Simington, Graettinger-Terril Principal
2022- Drew Howing, Iowa Lakes Community College, Environmental Studies Assistant Professor, Estherville, IA
2021 - John Joynt, Retired Educator, Emmetsburg
2019 - Michael Martens, Emmet County Sheriff, Estherville, IA
2018 - Dan Jorgensen, Mayor, Ringsted, IA
2017 - Doug Burton, First Christian Church, Estherville, IA
2016 - Diane (Twait) Nelson, Lakeland AEA, Ringsted, IA
2015 - James Donovan, Mentor, Adult and Teen Challenge and driver, Interfaith Hospitality Network, Baxter, MN
2014 - Kathy Preston, Emmet County Public Health, Ringsted, IA
2013 - Larry Sundall, Alumni Vice-President, Estherville, IA
2012 - Robert (Rob) Jacobs, General Manager, Cooperative Elevator Association, Hartley, IA
2012 - John Wittneben, Owner, Wittneben Land Surveying, Estherville, IA
2011 - Erika Tonsfeldt Volker, Director, Partnerships for Innovation, Papillion, NE
2010 - Bridget Breen, Director of News & Operations at KTIV-TV, Sioux City, IA
2010 - Darin Moeller, Estherville Campus Executive Dean at Iowa Lakes Community College, Estherville, IA
2009 - Rick Olesen, Vice President of Operations & Engineering at Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative, Estherville, IA
2008 - Merwyn C. (M.C.) Gill, Company Founder, Pasadena, CA
2007 - Dana Holland, Health Administrator, Good Samaritan Society, Ottumwa, IA
2006 - Linda Heldt, Iowa Lakes Office Associate, Estherville, IA
2005 - Bruce Hertzke, CEO, Winnebago, Forest City, IA
2004 - Alan Blum, Business Owner, Estherville, IA
2003 - Greg Stevens, State Representative, Milford, IA
2002 - Dr. L.T. Donovan, Orthopedic Surgeon, Minneapolis, MN
2001 - Ronald Smith, Farmer, County Supervisor, Dolliver, IA
2000 - Dean Luchtel, Business Owner, Milford, IA
1999 - Marcie Frevert, State Representative, Emmetsburg, IA
1998 - Jack Tatman, Farmer, Board of Trustees, Spirit Lake, IA
1997 - Marian Brunsvold, Alumni President, Spirit Lake, IA
1996 - Pat Hall, Iowa Lakes Instructor, Estherville, IA
1995 - Herman Richter, Retailer, The Three Sons, Milford, IA
1994 - Dr. Judy Reinking, Podiatrist, Algona, IA
1993 - John S. Walz, ECHO, Estherville, IA
1992 - Bob Grems, Iowa Lakes Athletic Director, Estherville, IA
help us support future lakers!
Questions? Let's Talk
Dr. Daniel Lutat
Executive Director of Foundation & Governmental Affairs
712-362-0491 Ext: 4491 | dlutat@iowalakes.edu
Administration Campus
Tony Condon
Institutional Advancement Coordinator
712-362-0450 Ext: 4450 | tcondon@iowalakes.edu
Administration Campus