2024-25 Annual Report

Winter Commencement

Central Community College held its fourth all-college winter commencement ceremony on Dec. 13 at the Hastings Campus. A record 118 graduates took part in the ceremony while a total of 372 candidates were eligible to graduate, matching 2023’s record.

The Honorable Denise Kracl, judge of the county court in Nebraska’s 5^th judicial district, delivered the keynote address. She began by asking the graduates a series of questions, such as how many are from Nebraska, how many cared for someone while earning their degree and how many are the first in their family to graduate from college. The questions set up the theme of her address.

“Because of each of you have traveled your own unique path, I chose the theme of a GPS,” said Kracl, who explained that GPS stands for global positioning system. “A GPS lets you know where you are and where you want to go.”

Kracl presented five lessons she had learned from her GPS. The first lesson: There is more than one road to get to where want to be. She spoke of being born and raised in Columbus, graduating from Columbus High School and enrolling at CCC-Columbus, where her mother was one of the original faculty members. After graduating from CCC and Wayne State College with a teaching degree, Kracl said she knew she didn’t want to teach and worked several different jobs for the next few years.

“During this time in my life, I traveled down many different paths, both professionally and personally, but none of them just seemed to fit,” said Kracl.

The many experiences Kracl had led to her second life lesson: Sometimes in life, you just have to make your own path. When Kracl was working as a probation officer, she said she would see lawyers making $150 an hour while she made $15 an hour. She believed she could be a lawyer and she began the process of applying to any law school that would accept her. That school was the University of South Dakota School of Law.

“In 2004, I quit a full-time job with benefits, cashed out my retirement and at the age of 29, moved to South Dakota,” said Kracl. “If you believe in yourself, it doesn’t mater what anyone else tells you, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”

The third lesson: Sometimes the detour you never saw coming is actually going to take you down the best road of all. Kracl explained that while she attended law school, she split her time between South Dakota and Nebraska. She was able to secure a graduate internship which paid her $500 a month and qualified her for in-state tuition. The detour, she said, came about during her second year of law school when she became pregnant and gave birth to her daughter.

“With the help of my family and friends, after (my daughter) was born, my rank improved 15 spots,” said Kracl. “I earned the highest grade in one of my law school classes. With a lot of help, we survived.”

The fourth lesson: Blue means water in the GPS world. Kracl said when she was discussing the GPS theme of her keynote address, they suggested she tell the audience that blue means water when looking at maps on a GPS device. She said after thinking about it, the life lesson she got out of was that while machines are great, you still have to have people to make sure you don’t drive into the lake. In the college setting, Kracl said a college does not become a college until people are put inside it.

“You see, it’s the faculty, the staff and the administrators who encourage you to learn, who create safe spaces for you to exchange ideas, they’re the ones who make college your home away from home,” Kracle said.

The fifth lesson: Always save home on your GPS. Kracl told the graduates that no matter what their major or where they are from, Central Community College will always be their home.

“On behalf of over 18,000 alumni, welcome to the family,” said Kracl. “Congratulations.”

Spring Commencement

Central Community College held commencement ceremonies on May 9 with 533 graduates taking part. Both the Grand Island Campus and Hastings Campus graduations were held at the Heartland Events Center while the Columbus Campus commencement was held at the Raider Fieldhouse.

CCC’s graduation featured a first as 11 GED graduates took part, five each at Grand Island and Hastings and one at Columbus. GED stands for “General Education Development,” more commonly called high school equivalency. GED is one of the programs available through CCC’s adult education program.

Keynote addresses at all three campuses were delivered by CCC’s Outstanding Alumni Award recipients: Quelbin Izaguirre, Columbus; Paulina Ortega, Grand Island; and Alex Kemnitz, Hastings. A recap of each ceremony follows.

Columbus

The focus of Izaguirre’s address was happiness, saying it’s something he never thought he would achieve and calls it “the most underrated thing in the achievement walk.”

Izaguirre’s journey to happiness began in his home country of Honduras, the second poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. He said his family lived on less than a dollar a day. At age 3, Izaguirre contracted kidney disease and doctors told his parents that he would make it to age 6 and die. The news didn’t sit well with his father, who walked 2,520 miles to California to find better health care.

Izaguirre and his family eventually joined his father in Compton, Calif., which is a notorious for being a very dangerous area. Two weeks after the death of his aunt, Izaguirre’s family moved to Columbus, where she had lived. Though he said he was dragged to Columbus, Izaguirre said it was the greatest thing his father had done. He graduated from high school in Columbus and, following a stint in the U.S. Army, he enrolled at CCC-Columbus.

“This is where I fell in love with business, and I fell in love with economics,” said Izaguirre, who went on to graduate from Wayne State College and the University of Nebraska-Omaha. “CCC gave me a strong foundation to continue my education.”

Izaguirre encouraged the graduates to focus on four things that have brought him true fulfillment: faith, family, friends and meaningful work.

“If you center your life around faith, family, friends and meaningful work, you won’t just chase happiness, you will live it just like I am,” Izaguirre said.

Grand Island

As a 2021 Grand Island Campus graduate, Ortega opened her address with a bit of amazement.

“I never imagined that just a few short years after earning my degree, I’d be back here on this stage celebrating not only my own journey but yours as well,” said Ortega, who earned a human services degree.

Ortega said she arrived at CCC-Grand Island with hopes, questions and a desire to grow but discovered much more.

“I found mentors who believed in me, peers who challenged me and a community that showed me the true value of support and service,” Ortega said.

Since 2023, Ortega has been employed at the Grand Island Campus as the apprenticeship coordinator. In this role, she connects business with apprentices seeking on-the-job training, a salary and a credential upon completion. She said the apprenticeship program is more than just a training program, it’s a bridge between education and opportunity.

“What makes this work so meaningful is witnessing potential become purpose,” said Ortega. “I see students gain confidence as they apply their skills in real-world settings. I watch them become contributors, leaders, advocates for themselves. That’s not just inspiring, it’s a reminder of why community colleges like ours matter so deeply.”

Ortega also reminded the graduates that commencement is both a culmination and a beginning.

“Whether your next step is a job, another degree or something entirely different, you already have the tools to succeed,” Ortega said. “Your time here has prepared you not only with knowledge, but with resilience, empathy and the ability to adapt. These are qualities that will carry you far.”

Hastings

Kemnitz based his address on the many tools he received from his days at CCC-Hastings, not the tangible tools, but the intangible tools that can’t be bought or sold. He said he uses the intangible tools each day as a teacher at Grand Island Senior High School.

“My many instructors taught me to be a good mentor; they modeled how to teach,” said Kemnitz, who majored in advanced manufacturing design technology. “My time as an RA (resident assistant) taught me conflict management. My time as a tutor in the Academic Success Center taught me how to listen.”

Kemnitz later shared a conversation he recently had with the mother of one of his students who wanted her child to attend a university. He said the mother explained that she had earned a two-year degree from another college in another state that she had never used. Kemnitz also said the mother didn’t want people to look down on her child for attending a community college. Initially, Kemnitz said he felt sorry for the mother for not using the tools she acquired at her college. However, her words provided the impetus for his charge to the graduates.

“Leave here as an ambassador for CCC,” said Kemnitz. “Leave as a skilled professional, ready to give back and take on that challenge and ready to use the many tools you’ve been given to show the world what CCC is and what we can do with our community college educations.”

CCC Well Represented at SkillsUSA Nationals

Six Central Community College students earned top 10 placements at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in June in Atlanta.

The SkillsUSA championships are the nation’s largest hands-on workforce development event for middle school, high school and college and postsecondary students enrolled in career and technical education programs.

Trevor Brown, who is majoring in the heavy equipment operator technician (HEOT) program at CCC-Hastings, won a silver medal in the college heavy equipment operation competition.

“Trevor taking second place at SkillsUSA nationals is truly an historic moment for our program,” said Jason Baker, HEOT instructor who traveled with Brown to Atlanta. “Congratulations to Trevor for a phenomenal accomplishment. Success is definitely in his future as an operator.”

Brown received an associate of applied science degree in May and is employed by Adams Construction, which sponsored him while he was at CCC.

Taking home a bronze medal in the college additive manufacturing competition was the team of Riley Mason and Landon Nelson. Additive manufacturing is the process of designing an object in a solid modeling software and using a 3D printer to make the object. 3D printers build the part by building layers of material one layer at a time as opposed to cutting away at a solid block until the final product is complete. Both Mason and Nelson are in the drafting and design technology program at the Hastings Campus.

“I am very proud of Riley and Landon for their accomplishments, hard work and dedication,” said Brian Davis, drafting and design technology instructor. “I commend both of them for not only competing in the SkillsUSA national competition, but also in their journey in completing dual degrees with advanced manufacturing design technology.”

The team of Hunter Fowler, Anna Katen and Frankie Maulucci finished in ninth place in the college crime scene investigation competition, which lasted five hours. Criminal justice instructor Connie Hultine, who was in Atlanta for the conference, said there were five scenarios and one was quite challenging. The scenario was a kidnapping that involved a vehicle and they had to collect evidence from the trunk.

“The ninth-place finish was so impressive,” Hultine said. “From the state competition to the national competition, there were a lot of changes, and I think the students and us as advisers learned a lot about how we can be better prepared.”

All three students are sophomores majoring in criminal justice. Fowler is interning with the Hastings Police Department while Katen is an intern for the Grand Island Police Department.

More than 16,000 students, teachers, education leaders and representatives from 850 national corporations, trade associations, businesses and labor unions participated in the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference.

Students Earn PTK, Aksarben Recognition

Central Community College students were among the honorees at the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) and Aksarben Scholars Recognition Ceremony in April at the Nebraska State Capitol.

Phi Theta Kappa

The 2025 Nebraska All-State Academic Team, which is sponsored by PTK and the Nebraska Community College Association, honors students for their academic achievement, leadership and community service. The team includes the following CCC students:

Steven Esquivel is a Columbus Campus graduate who demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and service. He is continuing his education at the University of Nebraska-Omaha to complete an accounting degree. His long-term goal is to serve as a mentor and advocate who uplifts future generations and makes a lasting impact in Nebraska’s communities.	Raegan Ferraro is working toward an associate degree in business administration at the Grand Island Campus. She also owns and operates a custom leather and footwear business, creating handcrafted boots for veterans, amputees and other clients. She plans to grow her company into a global brand.
Anastazia Hickman is enrolled in the associate degree program at the Grand Island Campus with the goal of becoming a labor and delivery nurse or working in a neonatal intensive care unit. She is a dedicated student and member of PTK and the National Society of Leadership and Success.	Olivia Swanson is a student at the Columbus Campus where she is studying radiology. She plans to continue her education at Nebraska Methodist College and become a radiologic technician.

Aksarben Scholars

The Aksarben Foundation supports Nebraska’s community college students through scholarships linked to high-demand career and technical education pathways. Each Aksarben Scholar is required to register for an internship to help bridge the gap between education and employment and to create stronger ties to local employers. Aksarben is committed to keeping skilled graduates in Nebraska, strengthening local economies and meeting workforce demands. CCC's Aksarben Scholars were:

• Kira Ahlers
• Trevor Bank
• Ella Broberg
• Hayden Cunningham
• Kinley Gifstad
• Keenen Jeffcoat
• Rachel Lambert
• Cianna Lane
• Emma Largent
• Alivia Rodriquez
• Carlos Tena Juarez
• Tye Ward

Students Receive TRIO Leaders Awards

Three CCC students received a $500 TRIO Leaders Award scholarship. They were Maricarmen Apodaca-Hernandez, a radiology technician major at the Hastings Campus; Josue Fuentes, a music major at the Columbus Campus; and Nicole Groetch, a human services major at the Grand Island Campus.

The TRIO/Student Support Services (TRIO/SSS) program awards the scholarship annually to TRIO/SSS students who have exhibited superior leadership through extensive involvement and outstanding service in their schools, communities and/or workplaces.

Coca-Cola Scholarship

Allison Durkop was named a 2022 Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholar.

The award came with a $1,000 scholarship for the Central Community College-Columbus elementary education major.

The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while they’re enrolled in associate degree programs.

Recipients were selected for their scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential. More than 1,300 applications were received.

The $207,000 awarded through the program is funded with $200,000 from the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. The remainder comes from donations to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation.

The funds provided by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation aid college completion and give students the opportunity to engage in PTK programs and develop their leadership skills.

Durkop, a Humphrey Public Schools graduate, served as vice president of service for the CCC-Columbus Chi Sigma PTK chapter.

Jim R. DeBord Scholarship

A pair of CCC-Hastings heavy equipment operator technology (HEOT) students from Wood River recieved the Jim R. DeBord Scholarship.

Nathanial Krolikowski (pictured right) and Braden Wynn (pictured left) each received a $1,000 scholarship to assist them in their educational pursuits. Both Krolikowski and Wynn said the funds will help with commuting expenses as they both still live in Wood River.

“I was really shocked by receiving the scholarship,” said Krolikowski, who wants to work for a firm and progress through the ranks. “I wasn’t expecting it, but it’s just a great opportunity.”

“I think it’s a great opportunity (the DeBords) for all the kids out here,” said Wynn, who works at Green Plains in Wood River.

Ron and Tammy DeBord established the scholarship in honor of Ron’s father, Jim (pictured center), who worked in the heavy equipment field for more than three decades.Before presenting the scholarships, Ron spoke to the HEOT students and detailed some of the Nebraska roads he helped construct throughout his career. They include Highway 29 near Agate, Highway 18 south of Curtis, Highway 25 south of Trenton and Highway 12 from Valentine to Sparks.

“One of the reasons we sponsor this scholarship to honor my dad is because he was dependable and the virtues he had helped him to be successful in his field,” said DeBord. “I don’t ever recall my dad being late to work in my entire life. He took great pride in what he did.”

This is the fifth year that the DeBord Scholarship has been presented to two students in the HEOT program.

Fall and Spring Plays

The theater department at CCC-Columbus presented plays in the fall and the spring. "A Midsummer's Night Dream" was the fall presentation while "Junie B. Jones" was presented in the spring. 

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Media Art Show

The creative work of eight media arts students at the Hastings Campus was on display in the 2025 Media Art Show. Each student artist is pictured while standing next to one of their works. 

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Fine Arts Festival

The Fine Arts Festival was held at the Columbus Campus in May. The event began with a student art show followed by a choir and band concert.

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Community Partnership Award

CCC's hospitality management and culinary arts (HMRM) program received the Community Partnership Award from the Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers of Nebraska (FCSTN). The award is given to an individual or organization that has demonstrated outstanding collaboration and support for family and consumer sciences education across Nebraska. Each summer, culinary arts instructors conduct workshops for family and consumer science teachers at the CCC-Hastings kitchen.

“I’m glad we won the award because it means we’re getting our name out there,” said Clarence Charles, HMRM program director. “It’s an honor to be recognized as a culinary school and have more teachers tell their students about us and how they can pursue their career in culinary arts and hospitality.”

Charles said the goal of the workshops is to teach the instructors the latest processing techniques in the industry. The instructors then teach those concepts to their students.

“This way, their students have kind of a foothold in the industry as a whole to see if this is something they want to pursue as a career.”

Also assisting at the workshops is Courtney Rempe, kitchen and catering manager, and Dylan Krings, culinary arts instructor.

The award was presented during the FCSTN banquet in Kearney in June.

Culinary Cruise

Six hospitality management and culinary arts (HMRM) students took an incredible study aboard venture. The Hospitality at Sea trip was led by HMRM instructor Kimberly Milovac. The crew embarked on a six-night voyage aboard the Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., cruising to Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Nassau for immersive, hands-on learning. The curriculum covered travel and tourism logistics, onboard health and safety measures, cultural awareness and appreciation, historical tourism, ecotourism, culinary experiences and more. It was a trip full of a variety of firsts, first time on a plane, first time on a cruise, first time out of the country, first time trying some unique culinary dishes and even a first time kissing a stingray.

Clarence Charles, HMRM program director, joined Milovac. The students were Graci Boersen of Cairo, Grace Ciancio of Fullerton, Jillian Duryea of Grand Island, Marisa Gewecke of Geneva, Kailea Hauner of Hastings, and Brianna Rae of Danbury.

Manufacturing Month Ceremony Spotlights CCC

CCC played a prominent role in a ceremony where Gov. Jim Pillen proclaimed October as Manufacturing Month in Nebraska.

At a news conference at Cargill in Schuyler on Oct. 23, Pillen cited federal labor data which said that Nebraska’s manufacturing employment is at its highest point since October 2001. According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, the state’s manufacturing employment increased to 109,079 in September 2024. The industry added 4,333 jobs over the past year.

“As governor, I’ve met with several manufacturers in Nebraska that have sites in multiple states across the country,” said Pillen. “Every single one tells me that their best location is in Nebraska. Our people are the difference maker. Nobody can build better than we can here.”

At the event, instructors from CCC overviewed the Independent Mechatronics Education Curriculum (iMEC), which is helping to equip area students for careers in manufacturing. The curriculum is being provided in 18 high schools in Nebraska. Behlen and BD in Columbus and Cargill in Schuyler each provide generous financial support to students who pursue mechatronics degrees at CCC-Columbus.

Serving as the master of ceremonies for the event was CCC mechatronics instructor Dan Davidchik, who demonstrated the training devices that are used by the students and the instructors. Also speaking briefly were Craig Potthast, who directs the plastic injection molding program at CCC-Columbus, and Behlen Manufacturing’s Mick Yrkoski, who is an adjunct mechatronics instructor. Potthast touted a National Science Foundation grant that is providing career pathways for Nebraska students. Yrkoski spoke of his involvement with the iMEC program since its inception and how the demand for skilled technicians has always been high during his 25 years in manufacturing.

National Science Foundation Grant

CCC received a nearly $648,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). The funds are being used to increase the number of minorities and underserved populations in the advanced manufacturing design technology (AMDT) program.

According to the project overview, manufacturing is a leading economic driver across the CCC service area and the demand for highly skilled technicians continues to exceed the supply of graduates. CCC looks to assist participants in obtaining a certificate in plastic engineering technology (PET) by creating a collaborative business and industry leadership team to create interactive materials and a step-by-step guidebook for the growing English language learner (ELL) population of students. Students who earn a short-term certificate could seek an associate degree or enter the workforce over the course of the grant period which runs through July 2027.

“The plastics program at CCC-Columbus is thrilled to be awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation,” said Karl Anderson, director of plastic injection molding. “I plan to use my experience working with English language learners while executing our grant objectives. These objectives will allow us to fine tune our curriculum, lab and outreach efforts into a robust and adaptable program capable of recruiting and training non-native speakers for jobs in the plastics industry. Additionally, this grant will help us serve a dynamic and growing group of students while simultaneously providing interview-ready candidates to regional businesses.”

In recruitment efforts, project staff are strengthening their partnerships with CCC’s adult education program, which served more than 2,300 students from 48 countries who spoke 48 languages during 2023-24. AMDT program administrators will also establish and build on existing relationships with local service agencies and organizations that serve immigrant populations. Some of the organizations include Centro Hispano, the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, the consulates of Mexico and Guatemala, and local school districts.

CCC seeks to enroll up to 40 ELL students in the PET certificate program over the life of the grant consisting of adult education and high school students. To accommodate ELL students, classes will be arranged to accommodate scheduling barriers with summer sessions, accelerated programs, hybrid and alternative scheduling.

Project PARA 

CCC received a grant to revitalize its Project PARA program, a web-based platform that provides school districts with foundational training in special education, Title 1 and early childhood education for paraeducators. The platform offers several training modules that address key responsibilities, core knowledge and instructional support skills for paraeducators. Project PARA complements the training provided by individual school districts, supporting compliance with Nebraska’s paraeducator training standards.

“Project Para represents a significant step forward in professional development for paraeducators,” said Dr. Amy Mancini, dean of instruction. “By integrating the latest educational research and legal compliance standards, we're ensuring that support staff have the most comprehensive and current training available.”

Paraeducators, sometimes referred to as paraprofessionals, teaching assistants, or instructional aides, work in classrooms under the supervision of certified teachers or administrators. They play a vital role in supporting instruction, providing assistance, either indirectly, one-on-one or in small or large group settings.

In addition to updating Project PARA, CCC introduced a new paraeducator certificate to expand educational opportunities for aspiring and current paraeducators. Designed for high school students, current paraeducators, and others interested in pursuing education, this 12-credit-hour online program includes coursework in professional education foundations, developmental psychology, and teaching children with exceptionalities. The curriculum also includes training through the nationally recognized Mandt program, which builds skills in relationship-building, conflict management, and effective communication. One of the program's highlights is the hands-on classroom experience, giving students real-world insights into the role of a paraeducator.

The paraeducator certificate program addresses a critical gap in the educational workforce. With many districts struggling to fill teaching positions, well-trained paraeducators are becoming the backbone of classroom support, bringing vital skills and dedicated assistance to the students who need it most.

CCC and UNK Continue Housing Deal

A residential housing partnership between CCC and the University of Nebraska-Kearney (UNK) will continue.

An extension of a 2022 agreement has been signed by both schools which allows CCC students studying at the Kearney Center to live in UNK’s Randall/Mantor Hall or Centennial Towers. Since the arrangement began in fall 2022, an average of 12 CCC students have lived on-campus at UNK during the academic year. A record 16 Kearney Center students took advantage of the agreement in 2023-24.

CCC-Kearney students must be enrolled in 12 or more credit hours for both the fall and spring semesters and be age 25 or younger on the first day of classes. In addition to affordable housing and a safe environment, CCC-Kearney students can opt into such UNK services as health and counseling, student events, the wellness center and student parking.

Nebraska Transfer Initiative

The Nebraska Transfer Initiative (NTI) meets in the fall term each year at the Grand Island Campus. Faculty from disciplines from accounting to theater meet on a three-year rotation to review their courses and agree upon common course elements. The collaboration ensures course syllabi, learning outcomes, course objectives and competencies at the state’s community colleges are consistent and transferable to Nebraska’s four-year institutions.

In the past 30 years, NTI has successfully articulated more than 50 courses across Nebraska’s community colleges, state colleges and universities. In addition, 31 statewide common courses are articulated across Nebraska’s community colleges which include courses like early childhood education and criminal justice.

“The work of our Nebraska community colleges through NTI makes good on our promise to ensure Nebraska students have local opportunities to learn in or near their hometowns and take those credits to a four-year institution if that is their educational goal,” said Dr. Candace Walton, CCC vice president of innovation and Instruction.

NTI began in 1995 in response to a Postsecondary Education Study Committee’s recommendation that “Nebraska’s colleges and universities should collaborate in the development of a statewide agreement and policy on (a) the transfer of college-level credit, and (b) the transfer of the Associate of Arts degree as fulfilling both the general education requirements of the receiving institution, and the requirements for entrance to the junior class.” Challenges and Opportunities for Nebraska Higher Education … A Call to Action, Final Report to the LB 247 Postsecondary Education Study Committee, November 1990.

NTI is led by Nebraska community colleges with 27 Nebraska institutions participating in the agreement.

Holdrege Center Relocation Approved

The Central Community College Board of Governors approved a $1.9 million plan to relocate the Holdrege Center to downtown Holdrege.

The center will move into the former Great Western Bank Building at 424 West Ave. from the Phelps County Agricultural Center. Once completed, the nearly 11,300-square-foot facility will feature classrooms, live video rooms, nursing assistant lab, computer lab, offices and a testing room. Space will also be available for future partner organizations or agencies to share space and collaborate on programming.

“As a long-time board member for Central Community College, I am excited about the upcoming relocation for the Holdrege Center,” said Rita Skiles of Huntley. “Increased educational opportunities and class offerings have created the necessity for more space and work areas that are accessible and functional for all student needs. The new center is an investment in area schools, in workplace preparation and a response to community growth and expansion.”

CCC has had a full-time presence in Holdrege since 1995. Originally located downtown, the Holdrege Center moved to its current location in 1998. In addition to college courses, the center offers adult and community education, English as a second language, health education and emergency medical technician courses, international studies and high school programming. Initial discussions with area businesses express opportunities for expanded technical training, adult education, youth programming and workshops to occur at the location. 

Construction should be complete in fall 2025.

Education Hubs Open

Central Community College opened a pair of education hubs in 2024. The Albion education hub (left) is located in the Albion Economic Development building at 127 South 4th street. The Red Cloud Education Hub (right) is located at 402 North Webster, across the street from the National Willa Cather Center.

PMHC Donation

In May, Phelps Memorial Health Center donated $100,000 to CCC to support its move to downtown Holdrege. This contribution demonstrates Phelps Memorial’s commitment to fostering community development through education and healthcare collaboration.

"We value local education and the positive impact it can have in enhancing the overall well-being of our community," said Kyle Anderson, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Phelps Memorial Health Center. "Supporting CCC’s expansion aligns with our dedication to community development and helps ensure the availability of a skilled workforce in the region."

The expansion project aims to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals and to foster economic growth within Holdrege and the surrounding areas. Phelps Memorial Health Center’s partnership with CCC reflects a shared vision of community enrichment and sustainable development of a thriving community.

“CCC is pleased to continue our decades of service to Phelps County area residents as the communities continue to grow and prepare students for vibrant health, technical and business careers,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. “We appreciate the investment from PMHC in supporting our mission of maximizing student and community success.”

ACTC Groundbreaking

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on May 2 at CCC-Hastings for a new automotive careers training center (ACTC).

The 42,000-square-foot facility will be home to CCC's auto body technology and automotive technology programs. The new center will move from an 80-year-old building and will feature five classrooms, a welding lab, a parts and tools suite, and oils and liquid storage.

“For 80 years, the current building has served both the Navy and Central Community College as a transportation repair hub,” said CCC-Hastings President Dr. Chris Waddle. “Our new building will bring automotive technology and auto body technology programs to the standards of our industry partners and provide our students with a world-class educational opportunity.”

Toby Stepanek, a first-year student in the automotive technology program, spoke to the gathering. While the new facility will be completed after his graduation from CCC, he said the impact of the new building is going to be huge for future automotive and auto body students.

“Not only will it bring in new students and more, it will also help them advance in the automotive world by making it efficient and give them hands-on experience in the lab,” Stepanek said.

The cost of the center is nearly $23 million. The college will provide the majority of funding for the center’s construction along with state-appropriated American Rescue Plan Agency funds. The Central Community College Foundation raised $3.5 million for the project. The new center is expected to be completed in late 2026 or early 2027.

Welding Technology Building Groundbreaking

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held Sept. for a new welding technology building at the Grand Island Campus.

CCC administrators said that once completed, the 12,500-square-foot facility will house 48 multi-process booths, 16 oxy-acetylene welding stations, two classrooms and a dedicated grinding room. The cost is $5.75 million for the project, which is expected to be completed in early 2026.

“It will have a more efficient layout to safely maximize the number of students as well as provide ventilation and equipment that are better suited for a modern welding facility,” said CCC-Grand Island President Dr. Marcie Kemnitz.

She said the new welding technology building will benefit more than just CCC students.

“One aspect that sets our welding building apart is that along with our college-age students, we serve about 60 dual credit high school students from area schools, including Grand Island Senior High and Grand Island-Northwest, who come to our campus for their welding experience,” Kemnitz said.

K.C. Belitz, director of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, praised CCC for its focus on the community, which has resulted in more than 90 percent of graduates staying in its service area after graduation.

“Economic development today is all about workforce development and community development and giving our students, our kids, the opportunities to stay here and build a life and raise a family,” he said.

CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall thanked the taxpayers in the college’s service area for providing a portion of the funding. The state of Nebraska has also allocated funds from the American Rescue Plan.

“We appreciate being able to show physically how that is invested back into community to help grow the workforce and to have some more people that will be living and working and providing valuable benefits and opportunities here,” he said.

CCC Honored for Prevention Efforts

Central Community College has been recognized as a Platinum Level Exemplary Member by the Nebraska Collegiate Prevention Alliance (NECPA), according to Dr. Beth Klitz, vice president of student success and enrollment management.

The designation is awarded to institutions that participate in at least two NECPA-sponsored activities and in all three NECPA programs. CCC participates in the NECPA Annual Statewide Convening, serves on the NECPA board of directors and offers NECPA-sponsored training in brief motivational interviewing to CARE team members and student services staff.

Using mini-grant funding, the college also has incorporated the following prevention programs: Year One College Behavior Profile, College Behavior Profile and Nebraska Assessment of College Health Behaviors (Biennial Survey).

NECPA works to encourage schools to engage in ongoing learning, stay up to date on the issues facing students and continually improve their prevention programming. It recognizes schools that develop programming that can be replicated by other institutions as well as those that excel in implementing evidence-based prevention strategies and successfully creating an outstanding campus environment for students and the surrounding community.

Raider Awareness Walk

Central Community College students, faculty, staff and the community united at multiple locations for the Raider Awareness Walk. The event provided an opportunity for participants to stand together against the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health. Organizers said the Sept. 10 walk was a powerful reminder of CCC’s commitment to raise mental health awareness and provid3 support to those in need.

Participants from all walks of life joined in the Raider Awareness Walk at the Columbus (left), Grand Island (right) and Hastings campuses and the Kearney Center. The collaboration between CCC athletics, the wellness committees, student activities, counseling and prevention and the veterans and military resource center made the walk a truly unified effort.

Participants discovered inspirational rocks along the mapped-out walkways, which were painted by CCC students. The rocks featured messages of hope, encouragement, and resilience, a reminder that no one walks alone in their mental health journey.

“This walk is about more than awareness,” said CCC athletics director Mary Young. “It’s about creating a community where people feel seen, heard and supported. Together, we are breaking the silence surrounding mental health challenges, and we are here to remind everyone that it’s okay to ask for help.”

Young said as participants completed the walk, many expressed their appreciation for the event, noting how it inspired them to become more mindful of their own mental health and the well-being of those around them.

Big Idea Columbus and Grand Island

Big Idea competitons returned to Grand Island and Columbus. Big Idea is a spin on the TV show "Shark Tank," where entrepreneurial hopefuls make a two-minute pitch before a panel of judges for a product, service or invention. Grand Island's competition was held on Nov. 5 at the Liederkranz while the Columbus contest was held on Nov. 14 at the Columbus Innovation Center. Pictures of the top three winners at each contest are below.

At Big Idea Grand Island, first place went to Melissa Zurcher (holding check), owner of Deliboards GI, second place went to Thomas Harper (upper left), owner of Feast and third place went to Robert Heagy, owner of RAH Artistry (upper right).	At Big Idea Columbus, first place went to Samantha Weeder (second from right), second place went to Diane Engquist-Absalom (right) and third place went to Katy McNeil (second from left). Also pictured is Kelli Faltys, director of CCC-Columbus Entrepreneurship Center.

Dale P. Parnell Faculty Recognition

Emily Mach, psychology instructor at the Columbus Campus, received the Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty designation from the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

The Parnell recipients were recognized at a luncheon held in their honor during the AACC annual convention April 12-16 in Nashville.

Mach earned an associate’s degree from Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Ill.; a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston; and a master’s degree in higher education and psychology from Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Prior to joining the CCC staff in 2015, she worked at the Community Resource Center in Centralia, Ill., as a prevention specialist and school counselor, and at Rend Lake College in Ina, Ill., and at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Ill., as an adjunct psychology instructor.

She has served as Phi Theta Kappa Honor’s Society adviser and been involved with a wide variety of college committees.

Mach is a member of the American Psychological Association, Society for the Teaching of Psychology and Hopeful Horizons community coalition.

She is trained in the American Foundations for Suicide Prevention programs of Talks Saves Lives, It’s Real, and Healing Conversations. She’s also undergoing training to provide QPR (suicide prevention/intervention).

Community activities include the American Heart Association-Go Red Planning Committee, Platte Valley Playhouse Board, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention-Out of the Darkness Walk chair and St. Bonaventure Church. She also is a swim coach and fitness instructor at the Columbus YMCA.

League Excellence Awards

Seven CCC employees received the 2024-25 League Excellence Award from The League for Innovation in the Community College. They were:

• Janis DeHaven (top row, left), business technology instructor, has turned decades of industry experience into real-world examples in her classroom of how technology is used in business settings. She is an IC3 Authorized Educator, Microsoft Trainer and Educator certifications who has developed innovative and customized educational experiences for her students. She has encouraged both them and community members to attain Microsoft and QuickBooks certifications.
  
  
• Dr. Paige Denman (top row, center), human services instructor, introduced the behavior technician certificate for students and professionals who work with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. She created pathways by developing an addictions diploma and restructuring the chemical dependency and mental health advocate certificates. Her work with the University of Nebraska-Kearney led to a social work pathway for students who want an advanced degree.
  
  
• Dan Gompert (top row, right), information technology and services instructor, has demonstrated a commitment to innovation through his 30 years of teaching. He holds a master’s degree in cybersecurity and is a 20-year Certified Cisco Instructor who was an early adopter of the Cisco Networking Academy. A Cyber Skills for All grant from Microsoft and the American Association for Community Colleges allowed him to create and lead a high school cybersecurity camp.
  
  
• Andrea Hays (bottom row, left), career and employment services director, previously served as residence life director at CCC-Columbus and as student activities director at CCC-Hastings. In her current position, she provides collegewide leadership support for student career services, including an online job board that serves thousands of employers, alumni and students. She also has been an advocate and CCC leader for the statewide InternNE.
  
  
• Lucas Lumbra (bottom row, second from left), esports head coach, has demonstrated remarkable innovation in building the program into a powerhouse within just two years and overcoming the unique challenge of coordinating talent across four CCC locations. As the college’s first esports coach, he has led his teams to NJCAA national titles in Call of Duty: Cold War Gunfight 2x2 and 4v4. His leadership also led to national runner-up finishes in four other categories.
  
  
• Dr. Crystal Ramm (bottom row, second from right), community and workforce education regional director, has played an instrumental role in the Ord Center’s growth. Her efforts have supported the Big Give to Valley County, which has raised funds for community education, youth summer camps and entrepreneurship programs. She has established a pollinator garden that also becomes an outdoor classroom and has served on the Connecting Young Nebraskans Steering Committee.
  
  
• Brett Wells (bottom row, right), Scott Pathway director, oversees this new, first-in-the-nation program funded by the Walter Scott Jr. Family Foundation. He has provided leadership to dozens of Scott Pathway scholars and has helped with innovative retention strategies. He sets expectations of timeliness and accountability and engages college personnel to participate in such events as a summer bridge program that emphasizes leadership skills.
  
  

ACTEN Honors Whitmore

Adam Whitmore, adjunct mechatronics instructor at the Columbus Campus, received the Outstanding Career and Technical Teacher of the Year Award from the Association for Career and Technical Education of Nebraska (ACTEN). The award is presented to a middle/secondary educator who demonstrates innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of career and technical education in their institutions and communities. In addition to his adjunct instructor role with CCC-Columbus, Whitmore teaches mechatronics at Columbus High School.

“I always think there is someone better who could have received this award,” said Whitmore. “But, at the same time, we’ve had a lot of success at Columbus High School and Central Community College. We’ve had lot of students move on to engineering and be very productive in the field.”

Whitmore received the award at the ACTEN conference in Kearney in June.

Remm Receives New Professional Award

Allie Remm, career and employment services specialist at the Grand Island Campus, is the recipient of the 2025 New Professional at a Two-Year College Award. The award is given by the American College Personnel Association Commission for Two-Year Colleges. It recognizes a new professional who has displayed outstanding professional potential and commitment to student affairs and student development at a two-year college. A new professional is defined as one who began working at a two-year college within the past five years.

“I am honored to receive this award,” Remm said. “I enjoy working with students in an important area at the college and am thankful for the opportunity to make a difference.”

Remm began working at CCC-Grand Island in 2023 as an admissions recruiting coordinator before transitioning into her current position. Prior to CCC, she was employed by Heartland United Way in Grand Island as a public relations and events specialist.

A graduate of Hastings College, Remm also earned a master’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

Proteus Recognizes CCC and HEOT Trainer

Central Community College and one of its trainers were recognized at the Nebraska Farmworker Recognition Luncheon in Hastings. The inaugural event was hosted by Proteus Inc., an Iowa-based firm that provides education assistance and job training to Midwest farmworkers.

CCC received Proteus’ Partner of the Year Award. Partners since 2012, Proteus has provided more than $104,000 to CCC in tuition, fees and books to support farmworkers in CCC training programs. Through the National Farmworkers Jobs Program, Proteus is currently supporting 31 farmworkers who are enrolled at all three campuses.

“CCC is proud to be recognized by Proteus for serving this essential group of hard-working employees,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall (right). “Helping students earn college credentials and technical skills are having positive impacts in their current lives and future generations.”

Andrew Rayburn (left), a truck driving and heavy equipment operator trainer, was given the Farmworker of the Year Award. Rayburn is a 2023 CCC graduate in the heavy equipment operator technician program and simultaneously earned his commercial driver’s license. Rayburn said Proteus provided him with school supplies such as hardhats and boots, scholarship dollars and fuel to drive each day from his home in Gibbon to the Hastings Campus and back.

“I really appreciate the opportunity and think it’s a great program,” said Rayburn, who has been a full-time instructor since graduating. “Having the college be able to be part of it is just amazing.”

NCCA Recognizes Young and Zeckser

CCC athletic director Mary Young (left) and early childhood education instructor Jackie Zeckser (center) received awards at the Nebraska Community College Association (NCCA) annual conference In November in Norfolk. Young was presented with the Administrator or Staff Award and Zeckser received the Faculty Member Award.

Young serves as both the CCC athletics director and head coach of the Raiders volleyball team. She is also extensively involved in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA).

Young is the current NJCAA senior women's administrator and serves on several of the organization’s committees, including the championship events, sports governance and eligibility committees. She is a past president of the NJCAA Volleyball Coaches Association, Region 9 director and assistant director, and was an inaugural NJCAA Board of Regents member. Young was instrumental in the addition of beach volleyball as an NJCAA sport. She played a key role in negotiating the dual membership between the NJCAA and AVCA for volleyball coaches.

Earlier this year, Young was named a recipient of the 2024 George E. Killian Award of Excellence. The NJCAA annually presents the award to individuals who have demonstrated the ideals of volunteerism, achievement, service, leadership and excellence.

Zeckser has worked at Central Community College since 2008 when she served as an adjunct instructor. Three years later, she became a full-time early childhood education faculty member at the Hastings Campus where she remains. Zeckser also worked for 25 years at the Head Start program in Hastings and continues to serve as a board member.

Zeckser earned an associate of science degree in family and consumer science from CCC, followed by a bachelor of science degree in human service administration from Bellevue University. She then earned a master of science degree in early childhood education from Concordia University.

As a faculty member, Zeckser has worked with her collegewide peers in creating distance-delivered early childhood courses and student support for learners across CCC’s 25-county service area. This includes early college/high school age, education transfer and nontraditional students. She also assists with multiple college-related activities such as Leap Frog Village, which is a free early childhood engagement program. Leap Frog Village events are held at various times throughout the year and feature a meal and activities that help parents spend quality time with their children. Zeckser is also a member of CCC’s CARE team and campus cleanup. In 2023, she was honored by her peers at CCC-Hastings with the Outstanding Service Award.

Active in the community, Zeckser volunteers her time providing in-service training for home child care providers as well as training required for Department of Health and Human Services licensing. She also serves on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln/Adams County Extension board; coordinates the SkillsUSA Nebraska competition for early childhood education; and volunteers her time with United Harvest, Prairie Loft and Lakeside Community Church.

Columbus Campus Employee of the Year

Heidi Wilshusen was named the Employee of the Year. The award is presented annually to a Columbus Campus employee who demonstrates dedication, enthusiasm and innovation as well as a rapport with students and other staff members and a willingness to go the extra mile.

Wilshusen started at CCC in 2011 as an administrative assistant in the admissions office and accepted her current position as an academic transfer specialist in 2014.

One nominator said that Wilshusen “is a natural at building rapport and relationships with students and she carries herself with such grace and respect that I find myself looking up to her and wanting to be like her as a professional.”

She is a Columbus High School graduate who went on to earn an associate of science degree from CCC and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Concordia University.

She is a coach for Club Volleyball and other various youth sports and is a Teammates mentor. She and her husband, Ben, have two children.

Columbus Campus Faculty Member of the Year

Math instructor Phillip Broberg received the CCC-Columbus Faculty Member of the Year Award. The award is given annually to a Columbus Campus faculty member who displays excellence and innovation in teaching; rapport with students; and institutional, professional and community involvement.

“I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today without him,” said a nominator. “I’ve had the privilege of being in his class both last semester and this semester, and math, which has always been my most difficult subject, became far more manageable with his support.”

He also was cited for always putting the student first, his flexibility and adaptability in his teaching and his leadership in course planning, and revision.

Broberg started as an adjunct mathematics instructor at CCC in 2008 and became full-time in 2011.

He graduated from Columbus High School and began his college education at CCC-Columbus.  He transferred to Wayne State College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education.

Prior to joining the CCC staff, he taught mathematics at Columbus Middle School for nine years while earning a master’s degree in mathematics education.

He and his wife, Jill, have three children.

CCC-Hastings Outstanding Service Award

Andrea Hays received the 41st Annual Outstanding Service Award at Central Community College-Hastings.

The award is presented annually to a Hastings Campus employee who demonstrates exemplary service to the college.

Hays’ employment with CCC began in 2000 as residence life director at the Columbus Campus. In 2013, she transferred to the Hastings Campus to fill the position of activities director. In 2021, she became director of career and employment services.

“Andrea brought vision and life to the activities role in Hastings, which had been previously filled by many different campus members in an unofficial capacity,” one nominator said.

Hays earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology from Doane University and in sociology from Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kan., and a master’s degree in management from Bellevue University. She also is a Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) and Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP).

She is an active member of Employ Hastings; Revive Inc. Board of Directors; Delta Kappa Gamma; First Congregational Church; and CCC’s Graduation Committee, CARE Team, and the Food and Hygiene Pantry Steering Committee.

Additional Employee Highlights

• Cheri Beda, alumni director, completed a certificate in fundraising management from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
  
  
• Libby Paro, occupational therapy assistant instructor, earned two certificates qualifying her as a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Related Service Provider. These certificates support her teaching in pediatrics, treatment interventions, activity analysis, and documentation within pediatric occupational therapy.
  
  
• Wanda Cloet, dental hygiene program director, received the ADHA (American Dental Hygienists’ Association) Standout Seven Educator Award in recognition of her exemplary dedication and innovation in her dental hygiene role. She is a member of the American Dental Education Association, American Mobile and Teledentistry Alliance, International Federation of Dental Hygienists and ADHA. She has served on numerous American Dental Education Association, American Dental Association and ADHA committees.
  
  
• Jordan Eisenmenger, financial aid associate director, received the Distinguished Service Award at the Nebraska Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NeASFAA) annual conference in March. Recipients are recognized for their outstanding achievements in the financial aid profession and for demonstrating outstanding service in pursuing NeASFAA’s mission over the past year.

Webb Receives NCCA Distinguished Alumni Award

CCC alumnus Quinn Webb received the Nebraska Community College Association (NCCA) Distinguished Alumni Award. He recieved the award at the NCCA conference in Norfolk in November.

Webb earned an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice from Central Community College-Grand Island in 2003; graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va., in 2010; and completed a bachelor of science degree at Wayne State College in 2021.

Webb’s educational journey began at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he majored in chemistry and minoring in criminal justice. However, he said he discovered that criminal justice was more fun than chemistry. Webb’s discovery and life circumstances led him to enroll at CCC-Grand Island. He also began working at the Hall County Sheriff’s office where he said he gained invaluable real-world experience as a law enforcement officer. He spent 20 years with the Hall County Sheriff’s office, serving as a sergeant, captain and chief deputy.

Since 2020, Webb has been assistant director of the Hall County Department of Corrections and is responsible for overseeing its 80,000-square-foot facility, which houses 321 inmates and has 88 full-time employees. Under his leadership, Hall County Corrections has worked with CCC to implement programs that promote criminal justice careers and, through its internship program, has certified several CCC students in corrections.

2024 Outstanding Alumni

Three CCC graduates were named Outstanding Alumni Award recipients for 2024. They are:

Columbus Campus – Quelbin Izaguirre

Quelbin Izaguirre graduated from CCC-Columbus with an associate of arts degree and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Wayne State College and a master’s degree in economics from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.

He credits his educational background for the skills necessary for driving sustainable development and economic empowerment. This includes his current position as chief operating officer for NeighborWorks Northeast Nebraska, which plays a pivotal role in expanding access to safe and affordable housing.

Izaguirre is a passionate advocate for community engagement. He serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the Central Community College Foundation, Discover Hope International Church, the Nebraska Housing Developers Association, Centro Hispano, and the Columbus Area Children’s Museum. He also contributes to business and civic engagement as a member of the Commodores in Columbus.

He and his wife, Danica, have three children.

Grand Island Campus – Paulina Ortega

Paulina Ortega graduated from CCC-Grand Island in 2021 with an associate of applied science degree in human services.

After graduation, she was an AmeriCorps, volunteer, supporting the Salvation Army, Goodwill and the Zone after-school program for middle schoolers. She also packed meals for the homeless as a Hastings YWCA volunteer.

In 2023, Ortega returned to CCC as an apprenticeship coordinator for the Grand Island area. She works with instructors, students and companies to facilitate on-the-job learning experiences that benefit the local community.

In addition to her professional and volunteer work, she is owner of Los Forasteros Snacks LLC, which offers customized mobile bar services featuring mini pancakes, strawberries and cream cups, and corn and nachos. She manages the Facebook page for her and two other businesses and handles private messages and event bookings.

She and her husband, Michael, provide a loving and supportive environment to foster children.

Hastings Campus – Alex Kemnitz

Alex Kemnitz is a 2018 graduate of CCC-Hastings with an associate of applied science degree in advanced manufacturing and design technology. While there, he served as a tutor and resident assistant, experiences he contributes to his personal and career success.

After CCC, he studied skilled and technical science education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and earned a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.

He is employed by The Academies of Grand Island Senior High School where he is known as “King Nerd” and has a reputation for creating positive learning environments and running a rigorous but fun robotics and engineering program for students.

Kemnitz is involved in the VEX Robotics organization, for which he serves as head coach for the 8151 Islander Robotics Team. He also is a state officer adviser and board member for SkillsUSA Nebraska, a career and technical student organization.

He and his wife, Bethany, make their home in Grand Island.

Community Connection

If you would like to keep up on what other CCC alumni are doing and how they are making a difference in their community, please take a look at the Community Connection. The magazine is published each summer and an electronic version is always available here. 

CCC Earns Top Performer Status

Central Community College was recognized as a top performer in the 2024 Sustainable Campus Index, securing the top spot in energy and fifth place overall internationally among associate institutions.

A publication from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), the Sustainable Campus Index recognizes top-performing sustainable colleges and universities overall and in 17 impact areas as measured through the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS).

Ben Newton, sustainability director, said CCC earned its top performer status by having committed staff and student leaders all contributing daily, small efforts to make large overall impacts in reducing energy, waste and water. The dedicated team continually shares efforts such as picking up food waste for composting, managing native pollinator gardens, reducing paper usage and promoting efficient and renewable energy usage.

“CCC has continued to be a sustainability leader since 2016, not only in the Midwest but internationally,” he said. “The reduction and tracking of our efficient use of natural resources helps the next generation of CCC students have access to fiscal and innovative academic resources for evolving jobs of the future, such as renewable energy and sustainability courses.  I continue to be inspired by our new students every year for new sustainability projects.”

“By fostering sustainable practices and initiatives, you set an inspiring example for your peers and future generations,” Meghan Fry, AASHE executive director, said. “Your efforts are a testament to the positive impact that institutions can make when they prioritize sustainability and take meaningful action.”

CCC Receives Climate Luminary Honors

Central Community College was one of six colleges and universities recognized for outstanding climate actions efforts.

Second Nature, a national nonprofit dedicated to accelerating climate action in and through higher education, has announced its inaugural Climate Luminary Honors recipients. The institutions are recognized for their leadership and innovative approaches to addressing climate challenges across five categories – decarbonization, justice, community, workforce and research – alongside a special award for climate resiliency in action. CCC was honored for its workforce efforts.

“Central Community College is equipping students with skills to meet the growing demand for renewable energy careers,” Second Nature said. “Through its energy technology program, the college trains future professionals to install, maintain and repair wind and solar systems, fostering a sustainable workforce.”

“It is truly an honor to be recognized by Second Nature along with other higher education Climate Luminary Honor institutions that are leading with actions to prevent future unnatural disasters,” said Ben Newton, CCC sustainability director. “I initiated developing the curriculum for an energy technology program eight years ago, and now CCC is training students for one of the fastest growing career fields.”

For more information on the Climate Luminary Honors initiative, click here.

Sphericity Grant

Funded with the National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator grant, the environmental sustainability office is collaborating with the University of Georgia for an analysis of waste circularity in Grand Island, using the Circularity Assessment Protocol framework. Sustainability staff analyzed sources of waste (convenience stores, grocery stores, and food vendors), recorded litter and waste, and interviewed influencers of waste. This was completed throughout Grand Island, in high, mid, and low-density areas.  

2024 Sustainability Stats

Each year CCC’s Sustainability department tracks data from our campuses. This data includes paper usage, how often campus bikes are checked out and how often food waste is composted from Columbus, Grand Island and Hastings campuses. The data also includes wind energy information from Hastings and natural gas reductions. Listed below is data that was taken from 2024:

• Paper Usage: 1,793,900 sheets
• Bike checkouts: 396 checkouts
• Compost: 4918 lbs
• Wind production: 6,642,714 kWh
• Reduced gas: 290,302 therms

Esports Receive National Title Rings

Central Community College athletics held a team national championship ring ceremony for the first time in its history.

On Feb. 7, during halftime of the North Platte Community College-CCC men’s basketball game, four members of the 2024-25 esports team and head coach Lucas Lumbra received rings for winning national titles in Call of Duty: 4x4 and Call of Duty: MWIII Gunfight 2x2. Call of Duty: 4x4 members were Ethan Bryant of Grand Island, Jackson Peabody of Columbus, Caleb Smith of Creighton and Ayden Veik of Humphrey. Peabody and Veik comprised the Call of Duty: MWIII Gunfight 2x2 team.

“The ring ceremony was a phenomenal event and it was great to see our amazing students highlighted in such a manner,” said Lumbra. “These events serve as further encouragement for continued growth and success within our program and we look forward to many more.”

The head of each ring prominently features the Raiders logo with the words “National Champions.” Each team member’s game ID is on one side of the ring while on the other, the game they won the title in is inscribed.

“Seeing the look on our team members' faces as they received their championship rings was a truly unforgettable moment. This achievement is not just a milestone for our esports team, but for Central Community College as it highlights the hard work, talent and commitment of our student-athletes,” said CCC athletic director Mary Young.

The national championship rings were presented by CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall and CCC-Columbus President Dr. Kathy Fuchser. Also joining in the festivities was CCC-Hastings President Dr. Chris Waddle.

Softball Wins Region 9 Championship

The Central Community College softball team won the Region 9 championship with a 7-3 win over North Platte Community College in the tournament title game.

The Raiders defeated North Platte in the opening game of the tournament, 5-4, as the Raiders held the Knights scoreless over the four final innings of the game. CCC hurler Braelyn Sindelar struck out six North Platte batters.

In CCC’s second game, which was played later in the day, the Raiders held off Southeast Community College, 11-10. The Raiders fell behind early as the host Bobcats logged five runs in the second inning for a 5-1 lead. CCC came to life in the fourth inning with seven runs and three runs in the fifth to go up 11-8. The Raiders defense clamped down by holding Southeast to two runs over the remainder of the game to collect a second one-run win.

In the title game, the Raiders and the Knights began the game equally as the score read 3-3 after the first inning. The bats on both sides were silent in the second, third and fourth innings before CCC scored one run in the sixth inning and three in the seventh to win the title, 7-3. Winning pitcher Shayla Sullivan went the distance in the circle, facing 32 batters.

“We battled all season for this moment and we knew we had the pieces to make this happen,” said CCC head coach Caitlin Simon. “It was just putting it all together and leaving it out on the field.”

Volleyball Returns to the National Tournament

The Central Community College volleyball team returned to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament in 2024.

The Raiders began the quest by winning the Region 9 title by defeating North Platte Community College, 3-1, in the championship match. CCC won the first set handily, 25-14. In the second, North Platte grabbed the momentum back and was able to hold that throughout, winning 25-14. In the third set, CCC was able to get a decent lead at the beginning and maintained throughout for a 25-21 victory. In the fourth set, the Raiders were able to outlast North Platte and win the final set, 25-23, giving the Raiders the 3-1 match victory and the tournament title.

The Raiders advanced to the NJCAA Northwest Plains Championship (pictured), defeating Bismarck (N.D.) State College, 3-2, in the second match of the best-of-three series.

Central moved on to the national tournament in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and lost to Enterprise State (Ala.) Community College, 3-0, in the opening round. The next day, the Raiders defeated Carl Sanburg College of Illinois, 3-2, in the consolation round. The win was head coach Mary Young's 800^th of her career, with all 800 at CCC. Ironically, Young won her 700^th win at the 2017 NJCAA national tournament in Charleson, W.V. CCC's venture to the national tournament came to a close later in the day with a 3-0 loss to Kansas City Kansas Community College.

NJCAA Hall of Fame Adds Young

Mary Young, Raiders volleyball coach and athletic director, was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Hall of Fame.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to work in community college athletics and the volleyball community,” Young said. “Being inducted into the NJCAA Volleyball Hall of Fame is truly an honor and it reflects the incredible players, colleagues and mentors I've had throughout my career. I’ve been fortunate to have unwavering support from Central Community College and my family who shaped my approach and guided me along the way.”

Under her leadership, the Raiders have won 17 Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference (NCCAC) championships, 14 Region 9 championships, and appeared in 12 NJCAA national tournaments. Young has been named American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) West Region Coach of the Year three times, NCCAC Coach of the Year 14 times, and NJCAA Region 9 Coach of the Year 16 times. She also received the NJCAA Sportsmanship Award in 2014 and was an Omaha World-Herald Midlands Coach of the Year finalist in 2018. 

On a national level, Young has served on several NJCAA committees including NJCAA DII volleyball and beach volleyball as well as chaired both committees. She has worked as an assistant region director, region director and an NJCAA Board of Regent members. Young is also credited with co-editing the writing of the legislation for the addition of beach volleyball as an NJCAA sport.

All-American Honors

Volleyball outside hitter Lauryn Scott was named to the NJCAA Division II Volleyball All-American First Team.

Scott, a two-year starter for the Raiders, amassed 399 kills and averaged 2.77 kills per set. She also recorded 135 total blocks, 64 digs and nine serve aces. The Adams Central graduate finished her sophomore campaign with 490 points.

“Lauryn's recognition as an All-American reflects her incredible talent, a testament to her hard work and what a great team we had in 2024,” said CCC head coach Mary Young. “I am incredibly proud of Lauryn’s success on the court and so incredibly proud of the teammate she has been while in our program. I am definitely blessed to have been her coach and will miss her being in a Raiders uniform.”

An academic transfer major, Scott earned High Academic Achievement honors at CCC's 2024 winter commencement. She enrolled at Hastings College as an education major.

NJCAA Academic All-Americans

The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) has recognized a record 53 Central Community College student-athletes for academic achievement during 2024-25. The 53 CCC honorees surpasses the previous record of 42 in 2023-24.

Student-athletes who earned a 4.0 GPA were named NJCAA All-Academic First team, while those who posted a GPA of 3.80-3.99 were named NJCAA All-Academic Second Team. The NJCAA All-Academic Third Team is comprised of student-athletes who finished with a GPA of 3.60-3.79.

The CCC men’s soccer team led the way with 19 student-athletes earning NJCAA academic honors followed by softball and women’s soccer with eight apiece. Shotgun sports, volleyball and women’s basketball each had five honorees. Golf and men’s basketball respectively had three and two.

The Raiders had five teams that earned NJCAA Academic Team of the Year honors for posting a combined 3.0 GPA or better. Volleyball posted a 3.58 GPA while men’s soccer sported a 3.54 GPA. Softball posted a 3.50 GPA and women’s basketball women’s soccer each posted a 3.20 GPA.

Additionally, the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports (NJCAAE) honored six CCC student-athletes for their academic performance during the spring 2025 semester. They are Andrew Burnett, Henry Gonzalez, Issac Gustafson, Zackary Hollingsworth, Benjamin Musick and Caleb Smith. The NJCAAE serves as the official governing body for two-year college esports.

The following is a list of each sport and each team members’ specific honor:

Golf

Jude Elgert, 2^nd team; Carter Murphy, 2^nd team; Colby Sorenson, 3^rd team; and Jacob Wright, 3^rd team.

Men’s Basketball

Loll Cooper, 2^nd team; and Ronan Parker, 1^st team.

Men’s Soccer

Paco Barajas, 3^rd team; Pedro Costa, 1^st team; Steven Esquivel, 1^st team; Tomas Estrada, 1st team; Eduardo Garcia Ruiz, 1st team; Emiliano Garcia Ruiz, 2nd team; Ezequiel Lucas-Reynoso, 3rd team; Fitzroy McLeod, 3^rd team; Antonio Merola, 1^st team; Cristtopher Montejo, 2^nd team; Kay Ortiz, 3^rd team; Xander Shepherd, 2^nd team; Rodrigo Silva, 3rd team; Arlo Stone, 1^st team; Ernesto Vargas-Hernandez, 3^rd team; Mayson Victor, 2^nd team; Donvan Williams, 2^nd team; Yuki Yasui, 2^nd team; Joseba Zabala, 2^nd team; and Jaime Zani, 3^rd team.

Softball

Tabitha Cooney, 3^rd team; Hannah Dahlke, 2^nd team; Haley Johnson, 1^st team; Kamira Kaskie, 1^st team; Lily Krajewski, 1^st team; Claire Kreutzer, 1^st team; Delaney Reeg, 3^rd team; and Danica Taylor, 1^st team.

Shotgun Sports

Nicholas Brodsky, 2^nd team; Syras Boston, 1^st team; Tayte Rogers, 3^rd team; Schyler Schwisow, 3^rd team; and Bryan Shafer, 2^nd team.

Volleyball

Josie Bentz, 1^st team; Ashtyn Heikes, 1^st team; Ali Miller, 1^st team; Lauryn Scott, 1^st team; and Olivia Swanson, 2^nd team.

Women’s Basketball

Lexi Fiscus, 1^st team; Ajae McKimmey, 3^rd team; Janie Munter, 1^st team; Delaney Reeg, 3^rd team; and Sylvia Valentino, 2^nd team.

Women’s Soccer

Ellie Bates, 1^st team; Lea Cordier, 1^st team; Ava Fisher, 1^st team; Talia Gisonni, 3^rd team; Olivia Hind, 2^nd team; Lily Krajewski, 1^st team; and Jade Thompson, 3^rd team.

Still the Tops

Central Community College is the top two-year college for veterans in Nebraska and second nationwide. That’s according to the Military Times Best for Vets: College Rankings for 2024. The study also finds that CCC is third in Nebraska public colleges and eighth among 34 public colleges in the central region. Overall, 304 four-year universities and two-year colleges nationwide took part in the survey which focuses on each institution’s efforts to support the military community. CCC placed 55^th nationally among all institutions, both four-year and two-year.

“The results our military students achieve while attending classes here speak loud and clear,” said Barry Horner, director of veterans and military services.  “Our veterans’ efforts pay off not only in their success in earning their degrees but also in the work they do in our local communities. I’m always amazed at the tenacity and drive shown while balancing school, work and family to earn their date with a graduation stage. I’m proud beyond words to lead a passionate team that provides second-to-none service for veterans and military-connected students.”

CCC Takes Second Place

Central Community College placed second in the 2024-25 Military Friendly School rankings for small community colleges. The second-place ranking moves CCC up from sixth place a year ago.

Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2024-25 survey with 537 earning special awards for going above the standard.

“As a veteran, I’m thrilled to be a member of such a determined and talented team which takes care of those who served our country as they transition from military to civilian life,” said Barry Horner, CCC director of veterans and military services. “Veterans have specific education programs available that are not offered to other students, and it takes dedication to ensure veterans are matched properly with their earned benefits so they too can be a college graduate.”

Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of its ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer) and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

Welcome Aboard

The CCC Foundation shifted to a territorial development model, placing directors directly on each of the college's three campuses. Bob Hausmann is the new director of donor and community engagement on the Columbus Campus.

Hausmann brings a wealth of experience from his 32-year career as a K–12 educator, including 24 years as a building administrator with Columbus Public Schools. With deep ties throughout the Columbus community, he has built strong partnerships and relationships that will now help connect residents and organizations directly with Central Community College.

In his new role, Hausmann will focus on strengthening community connections and enhancing opportunities for engagement, support and collaboration between Columbus and CCC.

Haas Foundation Donates $50K

The Gene Haas Foundation presented a $50,000 check to the advanced manufacturing design technology (AMDT) program at Central Community College-Hastings.

The funds were earmarked for student scholarships and bring the total amount that the Haas Foundation has donated to CCC to more than $320,000.

“On behalf of the Gene Haas Foundation, congratulations and thank you for all you’re doing,” said Hope Riska, education and events administrator for Productivity Inc., who presented the check. “Thank you to the instructors, the administration and everything CCC is doing for manufacturing education.”

Twenty ADMT students attended the check presentation. Elizabeth Wolfe, a first-year student, expressed her gratitude for receiving the scholarship funds.

“The scholarship I received helped me get the required tools for my computer numerically control courses,” Wolfe said. “I will put some of the money towards a laptop for my required classes which include my SolidWorks design class. This award will help me get a degree to improve life for my son and I.”

Pro-Am Golf Outing

The CCC's 34th annual Pro-Am golf outing took place in September at Lochland Country Club in Hastings. Twenty-eight teams took part and proceeds were earmarked for student scholarships.

Click on each photo to see a larger version.

2025 Board of Governors Officers

CCC Board Adds New Members

The Central Community College Board of Governors installed three new members at its Jan. 16 meeting.

Michelle Broekemier of Grand Island was elected in 2024 as the board’s at-large member and, as such, represents the college’s entire 25-county service area. This is her second time on the CCC board. She represented District 1 from January 2021 until May 2023 when she resigned after moving out of the district. She holds an associate of applied science degree in practical nursing from CCC, an associate degree in long-term care administration from Southeast Community College and a bachelor’s degree in health care management from Bellevue University and is now pursing an advanced degree in health care. She is a member of the Nebraska Healthcare Association and the Nebraska Nurses Association.

Dann Smith of Columbus was elected in 2024 to represent CCC’s District 5, which includes Butler, Colfax, Nance, Platte and Polk counties. He is market president of Pinnacle Bank of Columbus and an active member of St. Isidore Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. His previous community involvement includes serving as campaign chair for the Columbus Area United Way, president of the Nebraska One Box Hunt Board and a member of the American Red Cross’ Northeast Nebraska Council, Columbus Days Committee and Columbus Volunteer Fire Department. He also is a 30-year blood donor. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness and economics from Chadron State College.

Lynne Werner of Grand Island was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Dan Quick, who was elected to the Unicameral. She represents CCC’s District 4 which covers Hall County. She is an attorney with the Business Owner Advisory Services Division of First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO). She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a juris doctor degree from the Creighton University College of Law. She was the 2016 Grand Island Independent Woman of the Year for Community Service and previously served on the boards of the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, Grand Island Public Schools and Grand Island Public Schools Foundation. She is vice chair of the Hall County Airport Authority, liaison on the Central Community College Foundation Board of Directors and member of the Nebraska State Bar Association and Nebraska State Banking Association.

Budget Hearing

The 2024-25 budget hearing was held on Sept. 19, 2024 in the CCC Board of Governors room. Here is a video recording of the hearing:

Keep Informed

Monthly financial details, present and passed, can be seen on the CCC Board of Governors meeting agenda which is available here. The Board meets each month except July and December.