VINTON, Iowa (September 23, 2026)–Kirkwood Community College will host its fall Benton County Leadership Council meeting on Monday, Oct. 12, at 1 p.m. at the Kirkwood Benton County Center in Vinton. Kirkwood trustee Joel Thys, college administrators and staff, and local community leaders are expected to be in attendance.
The meeting will provide attendees with updates on Kirkwood activities and developments affecting Benton County. College representatives will also share information about ongoing efforts to support education, workforce development and community needs in the area. Additionally, attendees will hear a brief presentation about Kirkwood’s impact as well as its $88 million bond referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot. The meeting will also include updates on Kirkwood’s Industrial Technologies programs and their role in preparing students for careers and supporting workforce needs throughout the region.
A portion of the meeting will be dedicated to hearing directly from participants about the needs and priorities they are seeing in their communities. Kirkwood leaders will seek input on ways the college can continue to support local students, businesses, schools, employers and communities.
“Strong partnerships begin with listening to the people who live and work in the communities we serve,” said Kirkwood Benton County Center Director Kasey Keeling. “These meetings give us valuable insight into what’s happening across Benton County and what local residents, employers and organizations need to be successful. That input helps Kirkwood look for new opportunities to collaborate and continue providing resources that make a difference throughout the county.”
The Benton County Leadership Council meets twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring. The public is encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion. Community members will have the opportunity to ask questions, share feedback and discuss ways Kirkwood can continue to respond to educational, workforce and community needs in Benton County.
To RSVP, contact Kasey Keeling at kasey.keeling@kirkwood.edu or call 319-472-2318.
*****EVENT*****
What: Kirkwood Community College Benton County Leadership Council Meeting
Where: The Kirkwood Benton County Center, 111 W 3rd Street in Vinton
When: Monday, Oct. 12, from 1–2:30 p.m.
Who can attend: The meeting is open to the public
RSVP: Kasey Keeling at kasey.keeling@kirkwood.edu or call 319-472-2318
With more than 150 majors and programs, Kirkwood Community College boasts more than 17,000 annual college-credit students, while maintaining one of the lowest tuitions in the state. All degree-seeking students are eligible for federal financial aid and the college offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year to students from all walks of life. Kirkwood is a convenient, innovative and visionary educational leader that strives to remain affordable and accessible.
