Explore the people, programs and partnerships that make Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) more than a campus. From student success stories to behind-the-scenes of athletics, innovation and industry collaboration, each episode answers the question: What’s happening at NICC? Energetic, informative and always evolving, this is your inside look at the impact of community-driven education.
NICC Athletics Year-In-Review: National Titles, Program Growth and What’s Next
In this episode of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack welcomes back NICC Athletic Director Nick Weinmeister for an in-depth recap of the inaugural year of the College’s expanded Cougar Athletics program. From top finishes in shooting sports to back-to-back national champions in Hearthstone esports, Nick highlights the standout moments across the department's existing and newest offerings. The conversation walks through Year 1 successes in cross country, dance, baseball and softball, while covering key leadership transitions, including new head coaching roles and dedicated athletic training support for student-athletes.
Nick also shares a look at upcoming developments for NICC Athletics, including the introduction of co-ed Club Wrestling under the National Collegiate Wrestling Association and ongoing conversations around facility expansion and new sport additions. The episode wraps up with a quick "Fact or Fiction" segment, putting Nick to the test on student-athlete academic standards, study hall commitments and training room operations.
Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6R9wjn-EnVY)
Follow us on social media:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/neiowacc/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/neiowacc/) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/school/300717/admin/dashboard/) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@NEIowaCC)
Visit nicc.edu (https://www.nicc.edu/) for more information and resources.
Creators & Guests
Amy Lasack (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/amy-lasack) - Host
Travis Hunt (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/travis-hunt) - Producer
Nick Weinmeister (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/nick-weinmeister) - Guest
28 Oct 2026
Leading NICC: Deep Roots, Bold Future (Part 2)
In part two of this special 60th anniversary edition of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack
continues the conversation with former presidents Rob Denson and Dr. Liang Chee Wee, alongside current president Dave Dahms. Building on the history shared in part one, the panel shifts its focus toward the evolving landscape of higher education and what lies ahead for community colleges.
The leaders dive into the dramatic transformation of educational technology—from the early days of the Internet to the rapid rise of online learning and artificial intelligence. They reflect on balancing digital tools with essential human interaction and navigating workforce needs amidst rapid change. Plus, they share a fascinating look back at a major proposed project from the College’s past. Looking forward, they share a unified vision for how NICC will continue adapting to serve future generations of students, businesses and rural Iowa communities.
Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSacuNXUeko)
Follow us on social media:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/neiowacc/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/neiowacc/) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/school/300717/admin/dashboard/) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@NEIowaCC)
Visit nicc.edu (https://www.nicc.edu/) for more information and resources.
Creators & Guests
Amy Lasack (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/amy-lasack) - Host
Travis Hunt (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/travis-hunt) - Producer
Dave Dahms (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/dave-dahms) - Guest
Robert Denson (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/robert-denson) - Guest
Liang Chee Wee (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/liang-chee-wee) - Guest
21 Oct 2026
Leading NICC: Deep Roots, Bold Future (Part 1)
In part one of a special 60th anniversary edition of The Catalyst, host Amy Lasack brings together three generations of NICC leadership for a roundtable discussion. Former presidents Rob Denson and Dr. Liang Chee Wee join current president Dave Dahms to reflect on their unique journeys to the College, ranging from private sector finance and law to academic administration.
Together, they share insights into how NICC has evolved over the decades, highlighting key milestones like the expansion of high school dual-enrollment, career academies and Iowa’s Dairy Center. From steering NICC through economic recessions and the pandemic to shaping regional workforce development, these leaders offer a rare look at the resilience, people and community-driven mission that define the College’s past and present.
Click here to watch a video of this episode. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8cMwOTxX_0)
Follow us on social media:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/neiowacc/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/neiowacc/) | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/school/300717/admin/dashboard/) | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@NEIowaCC)
Visit nicc.edu (https://www.nicc.edu/) for more information and resources.
Creators & Guests
Amy Lasack (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/amy-lasack) - Host
Travis Hunt (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/travis-hunt) - Producer
Dave Dahms (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/dave-dahms) - Guest
Robert Denson (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/robert-denson) - Guest
Liang Chee Wee (https://thecatalyst.transistor.fm/people/liang-chee-wee) - Guest
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4.4 / 5
7 ratings
Spotify
4.0 / 5
4 ratings
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