Kris Nerem-Lowery Honored with Iowa TRIO "Legendary" GOAT Award

Public Information Office
4/15/2025

Kris Nerem-Lowery, Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Iowa Central Community College, was honored with the Iowa TRIO "Legendary"/GOAT Award at the 2025 Spring Conference, recognizing her as one of the state’s most impactful and enduring TRIO professionals.

The award celebrates individuals who have shown extraordinary commitment to TRIO students and programs throughout their careers. Nerem-Lowery’s leadership, compassion, and unwavering belief in student potential have defined her decades of service, making her a driving force behind the success of Iowa Central’s TRIO program.

TRIO at Iowa Central has a long and proud history of helping students overcome barriers to higher education. The program supports first-generation college students, those from limited-income families, and students with disabilities by offering services including personalized advising, academic tutoring, financial literacy workshops, transfer planning, and community-building experiences. For many students, TRIO becomes their second home on campus, largely due to the commitment of TRIO staff, like Kris. 

Nerem-Lowery joined Iowa Central’s TRIO program in 2005 and has played a central role in its growth and success ever since. She stepped into the role of director in 2017 and has continued to strengthen the program’s mission to guide students not only through college, but toward graduation and meaningful futures beyond.

Students consistently credit the TRIO program—and Kris herself—for helping them feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving their goals. Her ability to connect with students on a personal level, while maintaining a clear vision for the program’s impact, has made her a beloved mentor and respected leader.

The "Legendary"/GOAT Award is a celebration of a career defined by heart, hustle, and dedication. Thanks to Kris Nerem-Lowery’s leadership, TRIO at Iowa Central continues to provide hope and opportunity for our students.