Iowa Central Trustees Larry Hecht and Connie Smith Honored for Service

Emily Denholm, Public Information Office
8/13/2025

Iowa Central Community College proudly recognizes Trustees Larry Hecht, of Storm Lake, and Connie Smith, of Lake View, for their years of dedicated service on the College’s Board of Trustees. Their leadership and commitment have been instrumental in advancing Iowa Central’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education and workforce training across its service area.

Hecht, elected in 2000, was honored for 25 years of service. Smith, elected in 2001, received the 15 Years of Service Award—part of a new recognition program established by the Community Colleges for Iowa Board. While the award is intended for trustees in their 15th year, 2025 marks the program’s inaugural year, and Community Colleges for Iowa is honoring all currently serving trustees with 15 to 24 years of service as a one-time catch-up. Beginning in 2026, the award will be presented only to trustees reaching their 15th year.

Both trustees were recognized during the Community Colleges for Iowa Summer Trustee Conference, hosted by Iowa Central in Fort Dodge. The event brought together trustees from across the state to share strategies and celebrate outstanding contributions to Iowa’s community colleges.

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that community colleges remain responsive to local needs, provide life-changing opportunities for students, and build strong partnerships with area businesses and organizations. Their leadership and advocacy help support not only the financial needs of the colleges, but also enhance student experiences, foster collaboration, and strengthen community engagement.

Through their combined decades of service, Hecht and Smith have been instrumental in championing initiatives that expand educational access, strengthen workforce programs, and foster collaboration between the college and the communities it serves. Their contributions reflect a deep commitment to student success and the long-term vitality of the region.