Joel Pedersen, president of North Iowa Area Community College, has been named a Paragon President Honoree by Phi Theta Kappa.
Pedersen will be recognized during PTK Catalyst, the organization’s annual international convention. The Paragon President Award for New Presidents honors college leaders who have served fewer than three years and have quickly established a culture that values academic excellence, student engagement and leadership development.
Honorees are nominated by Phi Theta Kappa student leaders and are selected for demonstrating a strong commitment to student success through recognition of high achievement and expanded leadership opportunities.
At NIACC, Pedersen has supported the Alpha Psi Beta Chapter through advocacy for student-led initiatives, scholarship opportunities and campuswide recognition of academic achievement. A community college graduate, he also encourages participation in programs such as the All-Iowa Academic Team and other leadership initiatives.
College officials say his visible presence at campus events and support for student-driven projects reflect a commitment to empowering students and strengthening pathways to completion and career success.
