Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) has announced that Chuck Ball and Katherine Knobloch have been recognized as the recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Faculty and Staff Awards by Community Colleges for Iowa. These prestigious awards celebrate their significant contributions to education and their exceptional leadership within Iowa’s 15 community colleges.
The awards were presented last month during the second annual Community Colleges Convention and Tradeshow, held at the Downtown Marriott in Des Moines. This event honors individuals who exemplify outstanding service and dedication to the academic community.
Emily Shields, Executive Director of Community Colleges for Iowa, remarked, “The remarkable achievements of Iowa’s community colleges are a direct result of the commitment and dedication of professionals like Chuck Ball and Katherine Knobloch. Their efforts not only benefit their students and colleagues but also inspire excellence across our statewide network.”
Chuck Ball: 2024 Outstanding Faculty Award
Chuck Ball, an Automotive and Light Duty Diesel Repair instructor at NCC, is celebrated for his enthusiasm, positivity, and impactful teaching methods. Known for his hands-on approach, Chuck is frequently seen engaging students in real-world learning experiences in the lab.
His colleagues describe him as one of NCC’s biggest advocates. Whether greeting students and staff in the hallways or diving into daily lessons, Chuck’s dedication to student success is unwavering. His role in training the next generation of automotive technicians has left a lasting impression on both the institution and the broader community.
“I am truly honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Ball. “I am surrounded by some of the best instructors in their respective fields. I feel very lucky to do a job that I enjoy and look forward to every day.”
Katherine Knobloch: 2024 Outstanding Staff Award
Katherine Knobloch, recognized for her exceptional expertise and tireless dedication, plays an integral role in NCC’s operations. From streamlining processes to designing automations and data-driven dashboards, Kathi’s contributions have significantly improved efficiency across departments. Her deep understanding of NCC’s systems and her ability to manage complex projects have made her a trusted leader, not only at NCC but also within the statewide educational community.
Kathi’s expertise is widely respected across Iowa, with Department of Education officials often citing her as an example of best practices at statewide meetings. Kathi’s behind-the-scenes dedication has had a significant impact, strengthening NCC and enhancing its ability to fulfill its mission effectively.
“Working with various departments throughout NCC to help them use their data more efficiently is a very satisfying aspect of my role,” said Knobloch. “I’m thankful that others recognize and appreciate the work I do.”
Leah Murphy, NCC’s Executive Dean of Student & Academic Services, praised the award recipients, stating, “Chuck and Kathi are true examples of how dedication in education can positively affect both individuals and the broader community. They have both played key roles in shaping an environment conducive to learning and growth.”
For more details on the 2024 Outstanding Faculty and Staff Award recipients, visit the Community Colleges for Iowa website: Outstanding Community College Awards.
Northwest Iowa Community College, located in Sheldon, has served the community for over 58 years, offering high-quality, accessible education and preparing students for successful futures. For more information, visit www.nwicc.edu.