DMACC’s longest-serving board president, Joe Pugel, has announced his retirement and resignation from the DMACC Board of Trustees. His last official day at the College will be on June 16.

DMACC President Rob Denson and Vice Chair Kevin Halterman are asking the Board to approve granting Pugel an Honorary Associate of Arts Degree at the June 16th Board meeting with plans to present the recognition at the annual DMACC CEO Golf Tournament, June 18, at the Talons of Tuscany Golf Course in Ankeny.

“Joe has had a tremendous impact on DMACC during his nearly 30 years of service to the College,” Denson said. “Joe’s leadership, counsel, and dedication have helped guide the College through significant expansions and milestones. He has also been a steadfast and passionate advocate for our students. Joe has been a builder, connector, and believer in what’s possible when people come together to do good work. I’ve been honored to work with Joe for these many years. His legacy will be felt here for generations.”

Pugel played a pivotal role in the hiring of President Rob Denson in 2003, a decision that has been instrumental in DMACC’s expansion and success. Pugel's tenure has been marked by a commitment to student success, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.

Under his guidance, DMACC has achieved many milestones, including maintaining the highest bond rating and the lowest property tax assessment of any community college in Iowa, nearly doubling enrollment, and continuing to offer the most affordable tuition in Iowa. Additionally, Pugel oversaw numerous construction projects at DMACC locations throughout Central Iowa.

Denson also credited Pugel for starting the “President’s Council,” a group of top business executives who advise and mentor on a host of important issues impacting the College.

“After 28 years of service, including 23 years as Board President, my decision to retire was not made lightly," Pugel said. "DMACC has been a significant part of my life, and I have cherished every moment spent working alongside so many dedicated individuals." 

The Iowa native added, “It has been a privilege to contribute to the success and growth of our students and the institution as a whole. Witnessing our students achieve their goals and thrive has provided me with great joy and fulfillment. I look forward to seeing the continued progress and success of DMACC in the future.”

Pugel joined the DMACC Board in February 1997, representing District 5, which includes Newton, Knoxville, Pella, Lynnville-Sully, Prairie City Monroe, Southeast Polk and Twin Cedars. Since October 2003, his fellow board members have unanimously elected him Chair each year. The honor and trust have made Pugel the longest-serving Board Chair in DMACC’s 59-year history.

“Joe invests hundreds of hours each year on DMACC business and activities. He’s not done this for recognition, but because he truly believes in the power of education, the power of DMACC to change the lives of students and their families,” added Denson.

Pugel and his wife, Janet, have also made significant contributions to the DMACC Foundation.

Pugel earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Iowa State University and did post-graduate work in Industrial Management and Engineering at the University of Iowa. He started his career at Lennox Industries in Marshalltown and then moved to Newton, where he became a Senior Vice President with the Vernon Company and President of Vernon subsidiaries. He retired from Vernon in 2010.

The DMACC Board of Trustees will begin the process of selecting a new Board Chair following Pugel’s retirement. The Board is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the college's strong leadership and commitment to excellence in education.

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Todd Jones, Director of Marketing & Communications

515-964-6242

tgjones@dmacc.edu