NEW ENDOWMENT ESTABLISHED AT IOWA LAKES COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Jim and Bettje Willmore, long-time Iowa Lakes Community College champions and beloved community members, have once again demonstrated their commitment to service and education. On Tuesday, September 17, the Iowa Lakes Community College Board of Trustees graciously accepted the Willmore’s generous $100,000 gift, establishing a new endowment to support students in Nursing, Men’s Basketball, Instrumental Music, and Athletic Training.
“This is one of the most humbling things I’ve experienced at Iowa Lakes,” said Tony Condon, Iowa Lakes Institutional Advancement Coordinator. “We are truly grateful for Jim and Bettje and will steward their gift to help Iowa Lakes students succeed.”
When asked about their decision to create the endowment, Jim turned to Bettje and thoughtfully asked, “Why did we do this?” Their answer, shared during a heartfelt conversation, reflected a lifetime dedicated to service. “We believe in the impact community colleges have on young people,” the Willmores said. “Life is about fundamentals. If you teach someone the right way early, they will be a better person because they can do the little things right. Whether people give their time, talent, or donations, we hope this will inspire others to do the same.”
A Life of Dedicated Service
Jim and Bettje’s story began during the Vietnam War era, as they were starting a family. Though Bettje had dreamed of becoming a doctor since childhood, cultural norms of the time led her to put her ambitions on hold to raise their children. Years later, her passion for medicine was reignited, and she graduated from the Iowa Lakes nursing program, a milestone that cemented their connection to the college.
Jim’s journey included earning a degree in biology and a teaching certificate. He began his career as a science teacher and coach, eventually settling in Emmetsburg, where he coached football, track, and cross-country. While coaching, Jim recognized the need for immediate sideline care for student-athletes and worked to become Emmetsburg High School’s first athletic trainer.
“I remember a game where I suffered the worst Charlie Horse I’d ever had,” recalled Iowa Lakes Trustee Pat Kibbie. “I thought for sure I was out for the rest of the game. Jim worked on me for what seemed like five or ten minutes, and I was back in the game. Yeah, I still think he walks on water!”
Their impact extended far beyond athletics. As lifelong supporters of instrumental music, the Willmores’ enthusiasm for the arts enriched the lives of countless students. “If there was a concert or camp that engaged students in performing arts, they were sure to be in the audience,” said Carol Ayers-Stueven, a friend and Iowa Lakes advocate. “Our students benefit from Jim’s and Bettje’s constant support and encouragement.”
A Lasting Legacy at Iowa Lakes
Eight years ago, Jim began volunteering with Iowa Lakes’ men’s basketball team under the guidance of then-coach and Athletic Director Troy Larson. “Jim became a moral compass for staff and athletes and served as a barometer of team health,” Larson said. Bettje, too, made her mark, often opening their home to students during the holidays, providing a “home away from home” for many.
“We need people like this in students’ lives,” Larson added. “It’s important that they develop into good people.”
The Willmores’ dedication has now culminated in the creation of the Willmore Endowment. Through their gift, future students will have access to scholarships that reflect the values closest to Jim and Bettje’s hearts: healthcare, athletics, and the arts.
For more information about the Willmore Endowment or how to contribute to Iowa Lakes Community College, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 712.362.0450.