Meet the New Faces at NICC

Amy Lasack Vice President of Business & Community Solutions

Who is Amy Lasack?

“I’m a proud Air Force brat, so growing up, we moved around quite a bit. I came to Iowa for college at Cornell and have been here ever since! I have two boys, Brady (22) and Parker (15). I started my career in social work and then transitioned to work within the community college system for the last 22 years.”

What intrigued you about this opening with NICC?

“I’ve had the opportunity to partner with NICC in the past through my work at Kirkwood Community College and have always been impressed with the innovation and involvement of NICC with their students, businesses and community. The possibility to work within that environment was an exciting opportunity.”

In the first few months at NICC, what is something that has stuck out to you?

“It's been a whirlwind first few months, but by far, the biggest thing that sticks out to me is the collaborative environment in the area. Over and over again, I’ve heard from different entities how excited they have been to partner with NICC. The innovation culture is alive and well in the area, and I am excited to be a part of it.”

What is something you hope to bring to NICC and northeast Iowa?

“Over the last 20+ years, I’ve had a lot of opportunities to learn from some of the best in the community college arena. My goal is to take the greatness of NICC and the Business and Community Solutions division to the next level and elevate the communities, businesses and students even more.”

What is an “Amy fun fact” you could share with everyone?

“I have never seen a Brad Pitt movie. It wasn't intentional at first, but now it is such a fun fact I find myself avoiding Brad Pitt movies.”

Amy Gaffney Vice President for Student Services

Who is Amy Gaffney?

“I lived in Detroit until I was 11 years old, moved to Cedar Rapids, Houston and back to Cedar Rapids to complete my last two years of high school. I am married and have one child, a 21-year-old daughter. Music has always been a way for me to celebrate and connect with all moments of life. I love to read, and I hope to begin my 'year of reading' campaign this summer.”

What intrigued you about this opening with NICC?

“I started my career in higher education unintentionally. However, I’ve been fortunate to build a career in many different areas which serve students. I’ve always known NICC to be dedicated to students, an educational innovator and a great partner with the other institutions and the communities it serves. I read the position description, and it was like reading a playlist of my career experiences.”

In the first few months at NICC, what is something that has stuck out to you?

“The NICC community is filled with hard-working, talented people dedicated to helping students find their path. The connections forged with partners inside and outside of the College are impressive. And above all, the cooperative spirit among staff, faculty and administration is palpable.”

What is something you hope to bring to NICC and northeast Iowa?

“I aim to contribute by providing opportunities that position NICC for success. Leading a tremendous team of professionals who passionately assist students in navigating the college experience every step of the way, I hope will help NICC be the premier solution provider for the varied communities we serve.”

What is an “Amy fun fact” you could share with everyone?

“I lettered in golf in college. (Not that you would know by playing with me today.)”