Iowa Western Community College

Iowa Western Community College stands as a testament to forward-thinking educational planning, beginning its journey as Area 13 Community College in 1966. What started as an ambitious announcement in December 1965 for an unnamed four-year liberal arts college in North Council Bluffs quickly evolved into a vital institution, designed to meet the growing needs of the region.

From its very inception, Iowa Western demonstrated its commitment to accessibility and broad reach, commencing operations with two distinct campuses in both Council Bluffs and Clarinda. This dual-campus approach allowed the newly formed community college to serve a wider student population, laying the groundwork for its future growth and impact within the community.

The swift establishment and development of the institution culminated in a significant milestone in November 1966 when the Area 13 Community College board officially bestowed upon it the name it proudly carries today: Iowa Western Community College. This renaming solidified its identity and marked the beginning of a dedicated mission to provide comprehensive educational opportunities to its students.