Marshalltown Community College (MCC) and Ellsworth Community College (ECC) are celebrating a successful launch to the fall term, marked by energy, optimism, and a renewed sense of community across both campuses. Students returned to campus in late August and were greeted with a series of welcome back events designed to help them feel connected and ready to succeed.

Faculty and staff began the semester with district and college wide meetings focused on student success, innovative teaching practices, and preparing for another year of academic excellence. The energy was evident as classrooms filled, students explored opportunities in student life and athletics, and both colleges reinforced their shared mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to the communities we serve.

One of the highlights of this fall has been the notable increase in enrollment. Both MCC and ECC are experiencing growth compared to last year, demonstrating the value of community college education and the hard work of faculty, staff, and community partners. Enrollment is unofficially up by over 9%, a reflection of confidence in community colleges, the affordability of our programs, and the strength of our connections with local school districts and businesses.

Welcome back activities helped set the tone for the term. At MCC, students enjoyed interactive events on campus including painting a mural, reconnecting with peers and building new friendships. At ECC, traditions continued with faculty and student gatherings that highlighted the strong Panther pride that defines the Iowa Falls community. These events were more than celebrations, as they were opportunities to create a supportive and welcoming atmosphere that encourages every student to thrive.

As the academic year gets underway, the excitement extends beyond the classroom. Athletics play an important role in the student experience and in uniting the community. Both MCC and ECC are looking ahead to an exciting season of competition, with men’s and women’s teams preparing to showcase their talent and dedication. From the baseball and softball diamonds to the soccer fields, from volleyball to esports, our athletes embody perseverance and teamwork, and they thrive with the encouragement of fans in the stands.

We encourage you to come out and support upcoming games and matches throughout the fall. Attending these events not only fuels the energy of our student-athletes but also strengthens the bonds between our colleges and the communities we proudly serve. In addition to athletics, campus events, ranging from performing arts activities to Nature Festivals, offer opportunities for community members to engage with our colleges and celebrate the accomplishments of our students.

The start of a new academic year is always filled with promise, and this fall is no exception. With growing enrollment, committed faculty and staff, and vibrant campus life, Marshalltown Community College and Ellsworth Community College are positioned for an outstanding year. We look forward to building on this momentum and invite the entire community to join us in cheering on our students both in the classroom and beyond.

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Dr. Anne Howsare Boyens is the president of the Iowa Valley Community College District.