Da’Yona Johnson was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and moved to Mason City with her family in 2016. Her interest in healthcare started early while attending North Technical High School, a vocational school where she spent half her day in traditional classes and the other half in a Health Sciences program. There, she began training as a Certified Nursing Assistant and discovered a lasting interest in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. When Da’Yona decided to continue her education at 51ÁÔÆæ, she found a learning environment that helped her build on that foundation and take her first real step into a healthcare career.

Da’Yona earned her Nurse Aide Certificate from 51ÁÔÆæ in November 2020, an achievement that marked the beginning of her nursing journey. “51ÁÔÆæ gave me a fresh start,” she said. “The class sizes were smaller, the instructors were approachable, and I had constant access to labs and resources.” Her success in the Nurse Aide program inspired her to keep going, earning her Associate in Arts in Pre-ADN Studies, Associate in Science in Pre-BSN Studies, and a certificate in Coaching in 2021. In December 2024, she reached her goal of graduating with her Associate in Applied Science, Associate Degree in Nursing.

Today, Da’Yona works the night shift at MercyOne North Iowa on the medical-surgical unit. She enjoys the challenges that come with caring for patients in a fast-paced environment. “Each day I come into work, I continue to learn and problem-solve,” she said. “Being able to advocate for my patients and see them improve is what keeps me going.” Like many new nurses, Da’Yona has faced moments of self-doubt. “Imposter syndrome was a real challenge at first,” she shared. “Adjusting from student to provider can be overwhelming, but leaning on mentors, supervisors, and coworkers helped me find my footing.”

Da’Yona credits 51ÁÔÆæ’s nursing faculty, many of whom are graduates of the same program, with preparing her for the realities of the job. “They understand the challenges firsthand and bring real-world experience to the classroom,” she said. Her advice to others considering healthcare: “Don’t be afraid to try something new – whether you’re just out of high school or changing careers. Healthcare offers so many paths to explore. Stay determined, stay curious, and keep learning. The journey can be hard, but you’re capable of doing hard things.”

51ÁÔÆæ’s , , and programs are here to help you start your journey in healthcare.

Your future can start with a simple conversation. Schedule a campus visit and meet with an Enrollment Specialist to explore your options.

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When Joann Fabric closed its doors in April 2025, Rachel VanDerLinden saw it as the perfect opportunity to chase a lifelong dream. Having always loved animals, she decided it was time to turn that passion into a career through 51ÁÔÆæ’s Professional Dog Grooming program. Before enrolling, Rachel was already balancing her time between work and volunteering. She lived independently, had her own rescue pup named Forest, and enjoyed walking dogs from the Humane Society. In February 2023, she connected with , an organization offering employment support and resources, where her IPS Employment Specialist first introduced her to 51ÁÔÆæ’s grooming program. With encouragement from both her specialist and 51ÁÔÆæ staff, Rachel decided to take the leap and enroll.

Rachel graduated from 51ÁÔÆæ’s Professional Dog Grooming program on August 14, 2025. Along the way, she earned her Derma Bather Certificate, which every student who passes the program achieves as their first step in the grooming process. While she did not obtain her Professional Dog Grooming Certificate, Rachel embraced her own learning pace and took the time she needed to feel comfortable with her new skills. This serves as reminder that success looks different for everyone. She describes her experience as hands-on, supportive, and confidence-building, thanks to an approachable instructor and interactive training style. “My favorite part was shaving and grooming, it was super satisfying,” Rachel said.

After completing the program, Rachel gained valuable hands-on experience at a local grooming salon, where she was able to apply her classroom learning to real-world situations. She credits 51ÁÔÆæ for helping her build a strong foundation and for the confidence that allowed her to take that next step. “The training at 51ÁÔÆæ gave me a basic understanding and confidence,” she explained. “It helps me learn new strategies faster and apply what I’ve learned in class directly to my work.”

For Rachel, the most rewarding part of her journey has been simple: getting to do what she loves and helping animals. Each step of her story reinforces her decision to take a chance on herself and follow her passion. Looking ahead, her goals are to continue improving her skills, gain confidence using shears and clippers, and eventually become a full-time professional groomer. When asked what advice she would give to others considering a career change, she shared this encouragement: “It’s all about doing what you love. If you love what you’re doing, you’re going to succeed.”

If you or someone you know would like to join 51ÁÔÆæ’s Professional Dog Grooming program, learn more .

If you would like to schedule a grooming appointment for your dog at Canine Campus, visit here.

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51ÁÔÆæ (51ÁÔÆæ) is making it easier for adults in the Garner area to earn their high school diploma. Beginning Wednesday, October 29, 51ÁÔÆæ will offer High School Equivalency (HSE) classes at the Garner Education Center.

Classes will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. and are open to adults age 17 and older who did not complete high school.

Students will build skills in Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies while preparing to take the HiSET exam, a nationally recognized high school equivalency test. After completing all sections, graduates are invited to celebrate their achievement at 51ÁÔÆæ’s Education to Employment Graduation Ceremony, held each January and June.

For more information or to register, contact 51ÁÔÆæ’s Adult Education and Literacy program at 641-422-4278 or visit niacc.edu/adult-literacy/high-school-equivalency-diploma-hsed

The mission of 51ÁÔÆæ (51ÁÔÆæ) is to enrich lives through comprehensive educational opportunities, a commitment to learner success, community engagement, and leadership. Founded in 1918, 51ÁÔÆæ is a nationally-recognized, two-year college located in central North Iowa, serving approximately 3,000 career and transfer students each year. Recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the nation’s leading community colleges, 51ÁÔÆæ is where futures are found. Start your journey today at /apply-mkt/. Future, Found.

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When Brianna Viet took the stage at 51ÁÔÆæ’s Education to Employment graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 29th, her message was more than just a reflection – it was a powerful reminder of resilience, transformation, and the life-changing power of education.

Brianna’s path wasn’t traditional. After leaving high school, she completed her High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) in 2021. That moment marked the beginning of a brand-new chapter. Later in 2021, she enrolled in 51ÁÔÆæ’s program and graduated with her Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Spring 2023. Not one to stop there, Brianna returned to 51ÁÔÆæ that fall to pursue a second degree in – and completed it in Spring 2025.

Her connection to the Education to Employment team began during the 2021–2022 school year. With the support of 51ÁÔÆæ faculty, her Pathway Navigator Melanie, and dedicated mentors like Larry Eggerth, Brianna gained not only the technical skills needed for a successful career, but also the personal encouragement to keep going – even on the hardest days. “Traditional high school didn’t work for me,” she shared during her graduation speech. “But that wasn’t the end of my story.”

As a first-generation college student, a teenage mother, and a woman in a male-dominated trade, Brianna faced obstacles many might find overwhelming. Yet she never let those barriers define her. Through personal loss, challenges with self-doubt, and the balancing act of parenting and schooling, she persevered. “For many years, I relied on public assistance,” she said honestly. “But through hard work and putting my training into practice, I’ve gotten to a place where I no longer need it. It’s a little scary, but it’s the goal: to be self-sufficient and self-reliant. Education got me there.”

One of her proudest accomplishments? Becoming the role model her daughter needs. “I hope my story reminds her that no matter how hard life gets, you can keep pushing forward.”

Brianna’s story is a powerful reflection of the mission behind 51ÁÔÆæ’s Education to Employment team: to guide individuals from the classroom to a career by providing hands-on training, career readiness support, and the resources needed to succeed in high-demand fields. Through personalized guidance, wraparound services, and practical skills development, the team empowers students like Brianna to overcome barriers and achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

To anyone considering a fresh start, Brianna offers this advice:
“Take that first step. Have courage. Lean on the people who support you. You have a place at 51ÁÔÆæ, and if you give yourself the chance, your time here could be life-changing.”

Want to hear Brianna’s story in her own words? Watch her full graduation speech below.

The post From High School Dropout to Diesel Tech Graduate: Brianna’s 51ÁÔÆæ Journey appeared first on 51ÁÔÆæ Minute.

Lynn Reams, 2025 51ÁÔÆæ Workforce Academy Graduate

At 61 years old, Lynn is a proud mother, grandmother, and newlywed who decided it was time to write a new chapter in her life. With a love for tubing, cooking, camping, campfires, and spending time with her family, Lynn embarked on a journey of self-discovery and career transformation at 51ÁÔÆæ. Her inspiration? Showing her family that anything is possible with determination and education. “I started my journey at 51ÁÔÆæ to prove to my family – and myself – that I could do it and to highlight the importance of staying in school,” Lynn shares.

It wasn’t long before Lynn discovered 51ÁÔÆæ’s Education to Employment program, which helped her chart her course toward a rewarding profession in healthcare. Starting with a medical terminology class and a basic computer skills course, she prepared herself to re-enter the workforce. These foundational classes opened the door to new opportunities and gave Lynn the confidence to pursue her dream of becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). “Those two classes set me on my path,” she says proudly. “Now, I’m a CNA, and I have just one more test to pass before earning my GED.”

Lynn reflects on her time at 51ÁÔÆæ with gratitude, emphasizing the support she received along the way. “My experience at 51ÁÔÆæ has been incredibly rewarding and life-changing,” she explains. “The healthcare programs and opportunities 51ÁÔÆæ offers are outstanding. I’ve been in many occupations over the past 45 years, but I never really found my niche until I came back to college.” Lynn credits her success to her own perseverance and the encouragement of her instructors and advisors. “They were behind me 100% – always there to answer questions and cheer me on,” she says. She also highlights 51ÁÔÆæ’s free tutoring services, which she found invaluable.

Today, Lynn is proud of what she has accomplished and hopes to inspire others with her story. “Don’t ever let anyone say it can’t be done,” she says. “I’m living proof that it can.” Lynn’s journey is a testament to the power of education, determination, and a strong support system. She encourages others to explore all the opportunities 51ÁÔÆæ has to offer, especially those who are ready to take the first step toward a brighter future. 51ÁÔÆæ is proud to celebrate Lynn’s success and is honored to be part of her story.

“Don’t ever let anyone say it can’t be done. I’m living proof that it can.”

Lynn Reams

The post It’s Never Too Late: How Lynn Found Her Passion at 61 appeared first on 51ÁÔÆæ Minute.

If you have the ability to teach, 51ÁÔÆæ will help you teach English as a Second Language.

Learn why.

The Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) program at 51ÁÔÆæ provides people over the age of 17 with accessible, quality instruction to develop work, life, and literacy skills.  Many of these classes are supported by federal and state funds, and provide a slew of opportunities for higher learning, job potential, and feeling a sense of accomplishment. 

One AEL program focuses on North Iowans who do not have the skills to read, write and speak English as it is their second language (ESL).    

According to the U.S. Department of Education and the National Institute of Literacy, there are approximately 32 million adults in the United States who are unable to read.

For many, learning a second language is hard. In most situations, it is done on the side, sort of like an afterthought as you complete a bucket list dream of traveling to a foreign country. 

Now… imagine being immersed in that country, not knowing what is happening around you.  People are talking, but you do not understand. Street signs give directions, but you cannot find your way. You’re forced to string together bits and pieces of the language here and there in hopes to create anything resembling a sentence. 

There’s no doubt this is quite frustrating.

Therefore, there is an abundance of people seeking to enroll in ESL classes. However, there is a significant shortage of people available to teach these classes. 

Director of Education to Employment, Molly Anderegg, states “We have many opportunities to teach with our Adult Education program, and it’s incredibly rewarding and flexible. Currently, the greatest need is providing English as a Second Language classes in the workplace; we have several manufacturers across North Iowa seeking onsite classes for their employees.”

ESL teachers bridge the language barrier, they are cultural mentors to students helping them navigate the many differences of living and working in a new country. 

Learn How

A four-year college degree is required and some teaching experience preferred. However, your teaching experience can include trainings you may have led in non-education industries.

51ÁÔÆæ provides a standards-based curriculum for all ESL teachers, taking the pressure off the teacher.

And 51ÁÔÆæ trains you!

Also remember, you do not need to be bilingual. The curriculum is structured around teaching English to students fluent in any other language; therefore, you need only to know English to teach.

To learn more about how you can have a direct impact on the lives and futures of these students, reach out to the 51ÁÔÆæ Education to Employment division of Continuing Education.

The post Not Bilingual, But Want to Teach? appeared first on 51ÁÔÆæ Minute.

Water is a vital resource for all communities; specifically, clean water.

The round pools of wastewater treatment plants are thankfully a common sight in cities and towns across our region, state, and country.

The technicians responsible for the daily safety of our community water systems need the most up-to-date training opportunities to maintain their local water facilities and 51ÁÔÆæ (51ÁÔÆæ) offers just that.

On Thursday, April 13, in partnership with the (IAWEA) Region 2 Board, 51ÁÔÆæ is hosting the Spring 2023 Wastewater Conference.

The Spring conference features a update from Sheila Bly, a Lagoons roundtable discussion, recognition of the 10^th Anniversary of the Nutrient Reduction Strategy, the IAWEA business meeting, Confined Space: Lessons Learned from the Real World, and a presentation from Scott Obernolte about the design implementation and operation of low-pressure sewer systems.

“Operator training is essential and 51ÁÔÆæ offers spring and fall conferences right here in Mason City to meet the needs of Region 2 water and wastewater operators.” 

Sheila Bly, Environmental Specialist Senior | Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Those interested in attending the conference can learn more and register on .

51ÁÔÆæ offers a vast amount of training for local communities, businesses, and individuals. From training that provides CEUs, such as the Spring 2023 Region 2 Wastewater Conference, to classes to —check out all of your continued education options!

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Veterans Day, proclaimed by President Eisenhower in 1954, historically includes parades, memorial ceremonies and feature speakers honoring all veterans annually on November 11.

ollege recognizes and honors military veterans, including our very own employees and students.

Tomorrow, November 11 from 2:30 – 4:30, 51ÁÔÆæ’s Lifelong Learning Institute is hosting a free public Veterans Day Presentation titled The Spanish American War. The objective of the presentation is to honor the service and sacrifice of all of our veterans on this Veterans Day and to educate the public regarding this important historical event.

Presenter, Bennet Smith, will discuss the dramatic consequences of the Spanish-American War and the future course of the ‘great powers’ in the twentieth century, which gave rise to the legend of Theodore Roosevelt and his Rough Riders.

Honoring United States veterans continues into next week as well. Dennis Marsh presents on Tuesday, November 15 from 2 – 3:00 p.m. Marsh who has visited many overseas cemeteries will share historical information about the more than 520,000 American soldiers lost their lives in Europe and the Pacific area during World War I and II.

The presentations are free and will take place in the forum on the second floor of the Beem Center at 51ÁÔÆæ. No Lifelong Learning Membership or registration required – just join us!

Lifelong Learning Memberships are available for next semester – get yours today!

The post Public Honoring of Veterans Day at 51ÁÔÆæ appeared first on 51ÁÔÆæ Minute.

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. You may be one and not realize it yet. Now is your chance to commit, inspire, and educate students as a substitute teacher, A.K.A. Super Hero!

Teaching is believed to be one of the most honorable professions of all time. Teachers in all levels of education impact students in a variety of ways — not only in the obvious age-old ways of arithmetic, social studies, and language arts, but also through fostering self-esteem, motivation, and expanding student perspectives.

Even before the world was turned upside-down with the COVID-19 Pandemic, schools faced a major dilemma finding substitute teachers.  The pool had become increasingly slim, and the shortage put school districts in an extremely tough place as they scrambled to find replacements as needed.

Substitute teachers are an essential part of education.  They aren’t simply “plan B” or an afterthought in case a teacher becomes ill.  A professional substitute teacher takes their role seriously, knowing they have the power to make a positive impact on students.

Even if it is only for one day.

Amid the pandemic, the role of substitute teacher was reevaluated across the country.  In the state of Iowa, restrictions were adjusted, and the average pay raised to entice workers into the field.  The shift was made due to the expectation for increased demand in the coming years.  Now, anyone with an associate degree or 60 hours of credit at a regional accredited institution and the completion of an approved substitute authorization can become a substitute teacher.

You don’t even need a background in education.

Schools in North Iowa are doing everything they can to build their arsenal of substitute teachers.  Striving for a level in which they’ll be able to easily fulfill the needs of the district should they have to call upon reinforcements due to illness and other absences.

And you could be part of the solution!

If you’re looking for a flexible schedule and enjoy being with students, the is a great place to start.

The class is held in person on the 51ÁÔÆæ campus, giving upcoming substitute teachers an advantage. Taught by a current and/or retired teacher to pass along their knowledge and wisdom, you’ll gain hands-on experience and real-life skills from both the teacher and substitute perspective.  Learning by example, coupled with being in the classroom setting, will prepare you to enter schools at any level, and give you the tools to succeed.

Plans for future substitute authorization course offerings held at area schools are also in the works.

Course content includes lessons on Ethics, Classroom Management, Diversity, and Instructional Strategies.  You’ll work collaboratively with other future substitute teachers and study real-life scenarios on how to provide the best education for various ages, whether it’s to teach for just one day, or up to 10 days in a row.

Current student enrolled in the course, Ashley Metz, would recommend it to anyone interested in obtaining their substitute authorization. “It’s incredibly informative,” she stated.  “And for being a 3-hour class, it holds your attention the entire time.  The teacher has shared so much of her experiences it makes it all very real.”

Virtually all schools are fighting this same battle.  No matter the reason, substitute teachers are few and far between these days.  Districts have felt the crunch as they scramble to find quality substitutes to fill the gaps every day.

If you have a passion for working with students, a love for learning, are organized, and genuinely care about education, consider becoming an authorized substitute teacher.  Registration for the next three course offerings are available; the first is a five-week evening option slated for October 6 – November 3, followed by a weekend offering on October 15 and 16, with the last offering for 2022 from December 5 – 15 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The cost is $99 and you’ll be responsible for obtaining the substitute teacher handbook (8^th edition).

For a full list of details and how to register for the course, visit   and search for “substitute authorization.”

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Human resource management is a contemporary, umbrella term used to describe the management and development of employees within an organization.  Back in the day, it was often referred to as ‘personnel’ seeing as it was the department handling all employee issues that arose.

Human resource management today involves developing and administering programs designed to increase the effectiveness of an organization or business. It includes a large range of responsibilities, including the creation, management, and cultivation of the employer-employee connection.

Once in the field, there are countless opportunities for advancement.  The human resources career path is similar to a staircase.  Each certification gets you to the next step, increasing your salary and opening doors for further advancement.

Today, we’ll be covering the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification.

This is typically the first move for those looking to advance their career.  provides you the opportunity to prove not only what you know, but also how you can apply that knowledge on the job.  It is a direct link to on-the-job scenarios and realistic work situations.

The exam is no walk in the park, but the outcome is well worth it.  Here are the Top 5 reasons you should earn a SHRM certification.

1. It can inspire creative thinking – Although you may be a seasoned pro in the field, you will be amazed at the breadth of ideas you’ll learn in SHRM training courses.
2. It can boost your confidence – Even if your HR role does not require certification, the lack of it could be hampering your self-assurance on the job.
3. It can help you get a raise – The takeaway: It pays to be SHRM certified!
4. It can benefit your employer – You will gain useful knowledge and find best practices to help you handle the day-to-day business, from recruitment to retention to risk management.
5. It can accelerate your career – SHRM certification is for those in the early stages of their HR careers. So, buckle up, because you are in for a ride!

So how do you get to this first step?  With the AND the SHRM Certification Test Prep course help to prepare for both the SHRM-Certified Professional and SHRM-Senior Certified Professional credentials.

You can increase your chances of passing the exam by attending a certification prep course.  Here, you will learn first-hand from a certified instructor who wi

Sharol Proctor, former 51ÁÔÆæ SHRM Certification Test Prep student,

ll guide you through interactive discussions and review sample test questions to increase your probability of passing the exam.  The test is not something you can pass on the fly, so you’ll need a solid foundation of preparation to achieve success.

Sharol Proctor, a former 51ÁÔÆæ SHRM Certification Test Prep student, understands the importance of the course.  While apprehensive to begin the class, it proved to be positive experience for her.  “I attended every online class and was determined to absorb the knowledge and tips presented by the instructor as well as the experiences shared by others through class interaction,” she stated.  “The class kept me accountable for staying on task with the reading, and also running the practice quizzes and tests.”

Deciding to obtain your SHRM certification is a big step, not something to be taken frivolously.  If you are still on the fence, it might be beneficial to attend one of 51ÁÔÆæ’s free virtual information sessions to learn more about SHRM certification and how the course can help you obtain this goal.

This is just the beginning of your long journey through the realms of Human Resources.  The opportunity for advancement is as simple as taking that first step onto the staircase of success.

The team at 51ÁÔÆæ Continuing Education can help you succeed.  It’s what they do!

Check out these human resources education opportunities:

1. ; August 18, 2022 start date
2. ; January 1, 2023 start date
3. ; February 7, 2023 start date

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