NIACC Launches “Let’s Light ’Em Up” Campaign to Enhance Athletic Facilities
MASON CITY — North Iowa Area Community College has officially launched a new campaign aimed at transforming its athletic facilities and expanding opportunities for student-athletes across the region.
The initiative, called “Let’s Light ’Em Up,” focuses on upgrading competition and training venues while creating spaces that can serve both NIACC students and the broader North Iowa community.
College leaders say when the lights turn on at NIACC athletic events, they symbolize more than competition — they represent pride, opportunity and community spirit.
Momentum for the campaign is already building, thanks in part to a significant lead investment from the NIACC Foundation. College officials say that early commitment is helping drive the effort forward and encouraging additional philanthropic support.
Leadership for the campaign is being provided by NIACC alumnus Phil Johnson, known for his longtime support of regional athletic programs and dedication to expanding opportunities for student-athletes in North Iowa.
At the center of the campaign are major facility enhancements, including upgrades to baseball, softball and soccer venues. Plans also call for construction of a state-of-the-art fieldhouse designed to provide year-round training space. The facility would include indoor golf simulators, open turf space for practices and competitions, and gathering areas for athletes and community members.
NIACC Athletic Director Ryan Flickinger says modern, high-quality facilities play a critical role in recruiting, retention, performance and school pride. He adds the improvements will also allow NIACC to host more regional tournaments and welcome teams from across the Midwest.
College President Joel Pedersen emphasized that the campaign’s impact will extend beyond campus.
Pedersen says NIACC has always been a true community college, and the “Let’s Light ’Em Up” campaign represents an investment not only in student-athletes, but in North Iowa as a whole. Expanded tournaments and events are expected to bring increased economic activity to Mason City and surrounding communities.
The campaign includes naming opportunities, corporate sponsorships, advertising partnerships and permanent recognition on a dedicated donor wall.
More information about supporting the campaign is available at niacc.edu/lightemup.
