SWCC nursing program featured during 2026 Community College Day on the Hill

Representatives from Southwestern Community College's (SWCC's) nursing program traveled to the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Tuesday, March 3, for the 2026 Community College Day on the Hill, from 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Individuals representing SWCC during the event included Nikki Thielges, MSN, RN, SWCC nursing instructor, and registered nursing students Isabelle Gaul of Harlan and Gavin Evans of Creston. Gaul and Evans are both graduates of SWCC's licensed practical nursing program.

During this event, community college trustees, presidents, staff, and business partners showcased career and technical education (CTE) programs offered at community colleges throughout the state. SWCC's table focused on the college's nursing program, demonstrating a mobile simulator from the nursing department's simulation lab.

Community College Day on the Hill was organized by the Community Colleges for Iowa (CC4IA), located in Des Moines, and was a part of CC4IA's Leadership in Action Week 2026, which also included a Student Legislative Seminar and the Phi Theta Kappa statewide awards.

Pictured above (L to R): Nikki Thielges, MSN, RN, Southwestern Community College nursing instructor; Isabelle Gaul of Harlan, registered nursing student; and Gavin Evans of Creston, registered nursing student.