Community Colleges for Iowa recognizes EICC faculty, staff, and industry partners for excellence in education and collaboration.
Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) is proud to be recognized by Community Colleges
for Iowa with multiple honors as part of the 2025 Outstanding Community College Awards,
celebrating excellence in education, leadership, and partnerships across Iowa’s community
college network.
EICC earned distinction for its collaboration with 3M, ADM, and LyondellBasell (LYB)
through the launch of the state’s first Process Technician (P-Tech) Program, and for
the exemplary achievements of three individuals — Tom Arends, Automotive Department
Coordinator; Erin Snyder, Chief Communication Officer; and Nicky Friedrichsen, Director
of Board, Legislative and Foundation Relations.
“These recognitions reflect the heart of who we are at EICC,” said Chancellor Bryan
Renfro, PhD. “Our strength lies in our people and our partnerships.
Whether it’s through innovative programs like P-Tech, or the daily work of dedicated
leaders like Tom, Erin, and Nicky, we are creating pathways that change lives and
strengthen our communities.”
The P-Tech Program, created in collaboration with 3M, ADM, and LyondellBasell, was honored with the Outstanding Business & Industry Partner Award. Designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and processing, the program represents years of coordination, vision, and problem-solving between EICC and its industry partners.
“This partnership is a testament to what can be accomplished when education and industry work toward a shared vision,” said Renfro.
The P-Tech Program, created in collaboration with 3M, ADM, and LyondellBasell, was honored with the Outstanding Business & Industry Partner Award. Designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and processing, the program represents years of coordination, vision, and problem-solving between EICC and its industry partners.
“This partnership is a testament to what can be accomplished when education and industry work toward a shared vision,” said Renfro.
In addition, Tom Arends was recognized with the Outstanding Faculty Award for his
leadership and commitment to student success. Arends, who began his career as a part-time
parts counter employee, has become a driving force in technical education at EICC.
He has strengthened partnerships with regional high schools, led the Automotive Regional
Planning Partnership, and helped establish the college’s three regional academies
in Diesel and Automotive Technology. “Teaching isn’t just about helping students learn a trade,” Arends said. “It’s about
helping them discover what they’re capable of — giving them confidence, purpose, and
a pathway to success. Watching them find their passion and achieve their goals is
what keeps me inspired every day.”
EICC’s Outstanding Staff Award recipient, Erin Snyder, was honored for her leadership in strategic communication and institutional advancement.
As Chief Communication Officer, Snyder co-led the college’s accreditation efforts
with the Higher Learning Commission and the State of Iowa, ensuring EICC continues to meet and exceed the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
She also played a central role in guiding the college’s strategic planning process
and led a data training initiative with the Gardner Institute, promoting a culture
of evidence-based decision-making across the institution. “EICC is full of people who care deeply about our mission, and it’s an honor to help
share their work and amplify their impact,” Snyder said. “I’m incredibly proud to
be part of a team that’s always striving to do better for our students and our communities.”
The college also celebrated the recognition of Nicky Friedrichsen with the Outstanding
Advocate Award. As Director of Board, Legislative and Foundation Relations, Friedrichsen
was honored for her steadfast commitment to advancing state policies and legislation
that support Iowa’s community colleges. Representing the voices of Trustees, students,
graduates, and the broader community college community, she plays a vital role in
ensuring EICC remains engaged and influential in statewide discussions. Through her
work with Quorum, she helps track and elevate legislative actions that make a meaningful
difference for higher education across the state. The Outstanding Community College Awards are presented annually by Community Colleges
for Iowa to recognize exemplary faculty, staff, alumni, and business and industry
partners who advance the mission of community colleges across the state. The awards
were presented during the Community Colleges for Iowa Annual Convention and Tradeshow.