When Iowa invests in its community colleges, the return extends far beyond campus walls. We answer why funds matter to Iowans.
Allocations are different from grants, which are different from bond measures or property taxes. Community colleges have diversified revenue streams that each serve a distinct purpose. No matter the source, every dollar matters––in how it contributes and ways it’s returned.
Independent economic impact research shows Iowa community colleges generate more value than we receive in public funding.
For every $1 of state and local taxpayer investment, Iowa taxpayers receive $2.50 in added tax revenue and public sector savings over students’ working lives.
Iowa community colleges generate an estimated $127,000 every hour in taxpayer benefits. That’s a total of $1.1 billion in increased tax revenue and reduced public spending on healthcare, income assistance, and the justice system each year.
The Iowa Department of Education released the report, The Economic Value of Iowa’s Community Colleges, to better understand how well Iowa community colleges returned our investment to key stakeholders––students, taxpayers, and society.
More than 140,000 Iowans enroll at one of our state’s community colleges each year.
Over 90% of Iowa community college graduates stay in the state, creating $4.8 billion of added income.
1 out of 23 jobs in the state is supported by Iowa community colleges.
With the public investment in our community colleges paying dividends for every Iowan, supporting our 15 institutions serving all 99 counties is a win for everyone.
A Political Action Committee (PAC) is a direct way we are able to invest in leaders who care about community colleges. A strong workforce doesn’t happen by chance—it requires leaders who understand the value of education, workforce development, and economic opportunity.
Decisions made at the Iowa Capitol have a direct impact on community colleges. We support leaders who champion:
With their support, we are able to maintain reasonable tuition rates and continue to offer programs for diverse in-demand careers throughout the entire state.
The general public is allowed to contribute.
We are unable to accept contributions from:
Yes, the PAC contributes to candidates who are registered as Democrats and Republicans. Community colleges have bipartisan supporters and needs bipartisan support. The issue of accessible, excellent higher education is not partisan and requires engagement from elected officials from both parties.
Funds are collected year-round, every year. Funds are most often disbursed annually in the summer following a discussion and recommendation from the committee.
Donations are collected online here. Mailed checks can be sent to 855 E. Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309.
The PAC complies with all applicable Iowa campaign finance laws and reporting requirements. Contribution limits, eligibility requirements, and disclosure obligations are established by state law. Donors are encouraged to review applicable campaign finance regulations or contact us with any questions about making a contribution.
