As Iowa’s community college system marks 60 years, statewide leaders are preparing to press the Legislature for additional funding and program support to expand degree and curriculum offerings. Emily Shields, executive director of Community Colleges for Iowa, told lawmakers community colleges are critical to expanding affordability and access for high‑school students, adults and workforce retraining participants. The push seeks resources to launch new degree programs and strengthen partnerships with K‑12 and employers. For policymakers and campus leaders, the request underscores the continuing political and fiscal battle over how states invest in two‑year institutions and workforce pipelines.