NACCE Member Spotlight: Dr. Candi Karsjens, North Iowa Area Community College
Meet Dr. Candi Karsjens, Director of the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) and a key driver of entrepreneurial growth in Iowa and beyond. Since NIACC joined NACCE in 2012, Candi has been a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship education and a committed leader in the NACCE community.
Making the Most of NACCE Membership
Candi highlights networking and shared best practices as the most impactful aspects of her NACCE membership. “Engaging with peers has provided valuable insights and new ideas that have strengthened our efforts,” she says. Access to national experts, specialized workshops, and funding opportunities has helped the NIACC team deepen their impact on local entrepreneurs and drive innovation.
Deep Involvement Across NACCE Programs
From the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge to the Entrepreneurial Mindset Center of Practice, NACCE Fellows, and the Everyday Entrepreneur Program, Candi and the NIACC team are fully immersed. They’ve participated in initiatives such as:
- Pitch for the Skilled Trades
- Verizon Learning STEM Camp
- Intuit Educator Resource Hub
- CodeBoxx
- NACCE’s Annual Conference, MakeSHIFT, and plans for Pathways to Prosperity
These experiences have empowered NIACC to enhance education, support entrepreneurs, and fuel innovation campus-wide and in the broader community.
Professional Growth & Leadership Development
Candi credits NACCE with helping her grow as a professional and presenter. “Presenting at conferences has strengthened my expertise and confidence. I’ve expanded my knowledge and leadership skills to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem,” she reflects.
Student Impact in Action
One standout moment? When NIACC joined the Everyday Entrepreneur Program Fund, they launched their first student pitch competition—a campus-changing event.
It sparked new engagement, grew the CEO Club, and brought together local entrepreneurs and students in a powerful celebration of innovation. Several student participants have since gone on to win awards at state-level competitions, using prize money to advance their businesses.
Advice to New and Existing Members
“Get involved!” Candi encourages. “Participate in programs, share best practices, and apply what you learn. The more you invest, the more you and your community will gain.”
Why Join NACCE?
“I’ve encouraged colleagues to join because NACCE strengthens programs, expands student opportunities, and connects you to an inspiring community,” she says. With Leadership, Academic, and Economic Development tracks, NACCE offers something for everyone—from institutional leaders to classroom educators.
👏 Thank you, Dr. Candi Karsjens, for your tireless work to empower entrepreneurs and for being such a vibrant part of the NACCE family!