Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) is proud to announce the appointment of Ashlee Spannagel, Ed.D., as the new Vice Chancellor for Workforce Development. Spannagel brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having served in various leadership positions in education and workforce development.
Spannagel joins EICC following a successful tenure as the Dean of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Workforce Development at Southeastern Community College (SCC). With a strong background in fostering collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners, she is poised to lead EICC's efforts in preparing students for success in the workforce. She will oversee the development and implementation of programs and initiatives aimed at addressing the evolving needs of employers in the region.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Spannagel to EICC. Her vision includes fostering innovation in response to changes in higher education and the workforce landscape. We look forward to synergizing her knowledge and skills with our team in service to our communities,” said Liang Chee Wee, Interim Chancellor of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges.
Previously, Spannagel served as the Delabar CTE System Director and Compliance Officer, managing Perkins funding and compliance for eight school districts under the umbrella of the Regional Office of Education #33.
She spent five years with Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, holding two successive positions: Retention Coordinator and Recruiter at Frontier Community College, where she focused on student success and recruitment; and Program Director of Grants, Compliance, and Outreach, where she prepared state, federal, and private grants and ensured compliance with state and federal legislation.
Spannagel earned a Doctor of Education from Capella University.
In her new role, she will work closely with faculty, staff, students, and community partners to develop strategies for enhancing workforce development programs and services. She will also play a key role in fostering relationships with employers to ensure EICC's programs align with industry needs and trends.
"I am honored to join Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the economic vitality of the region," said Spannagel. "I am excited to collaborate with the talented team at EICC to develop innovative workforce development solutions that meet the needs of our students and our community partners."
Spannagel's appointment as EICC’s Vice Chancellor for Workforce Development is effective June 17. For more information about EICC's workforce development programs and services, please visit eicc.edu/bits.