As I embark on my first semester as Provost at Marshalltown Community College, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. The warm welcome I’ve received from the faculty, staff, students, and community members has been truly heartwarming.

One of the most encouraging developments is the steady enrollment numbers. This indicates that we are successfully meeting the needs of our community by providing accessible and high-quality education. Our strong programs in nursing, science, and career and technical education, including our renowned powerline program, continue to be pillars of our institution.

Moreover, we are proud to be a leader in the emerging field of Esports. Our dedicated academic program is preparing the next generation of Esports professionals, showcasing our commitment to innovative and forward-thinking education.

Our digital broadcasting program is another area of growth, as we respond to the increasing demand for skilled professionals in this field. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, we are positioning ourselves as a leader in digital media education.

Recently, we successfully completed a Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation visit. This rigorous evaluation process affirmed our commitment to academic excellence and student success. The HLC’s positive assessment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff.

To further align ourselves with the needs of our local businesses, we are actively working to strengthen our industry partnerships. Recent tours of local workplaces have provided valuable insights into the skills and knowledge our students need to succeed. By tailoring our programs to meet these industry demands, we can ensure that our graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

As we navigate the future, I am grateful for the leadership of Mary Anne Nickel, who has graciously stepped in as Interim MCC Dean of Academic Affairs. Her wealth of experience and expertise have been invaluable assets to our institution. These attributes have solidified my decision to extend Mary Anne’s term through the 2025-26 academic year. With the additional time, Mary Anne will be able to finalize important academic strategies, enhance institutional collaborations, and address any emerging needs within the academic community. This extension would also ensure that critical projects, such as curriculum revisions and expansion of academic programming are thoroughly implemented, without the disruption of a leadership transition.

I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for Marshalltown Community College. With the support of our dedicated faculty, staff, and students, I am confident that we will continue to thrive and make a positive impact on our community.

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Matt Schmit is the provost at

Marshalltown Community College.