Bear Trails - DMACC News Blog

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Cindy's Story: Following Curiosity Comes Full Circle

January 22, 2026 | By DMACC

Cindy Neil’s path to the DMACC classroom is anything but linear — and that is precisely what makes it powerful. A DMACC alum, Cindy returned to college in her mid-40s and now teaches global studies courses grounded in curiosity as a discipline.

DMACC

Arturo's Story: Serving Memories Around the Dinner Table

January 15, 2026 | By Masa Pilcevic

Not every Bear Trails story begins in a classroom. Arturo Mora’s journey weaves through kitchens, communities, and moments of quiet learning — including early ESL classes and family ties to DMACC. Today, his restaurant Flame Cantina stands as...

DMACC

How Sara Volkmann Builds Community at DMACC Through Cafe X

December 8, 2025 | By Masa Pilcevic

Courage and caffeine helped this alum become an Ankeny Campus staple.

Clara Gene Chase Pace

Clara Gene's Story: Proving it's Never Too Late to Learn

October 29, 2025 | By DMACC

At 77 years old, this student hasn't given up on her goal to earn a high school diploma.

DMACC

Joel’s Story: Turning Curiosity into Cutting-Edge Clinical Education

October 1, 2025 | By DMACC

How one educator’s curiosity sparked a transformative approach to paramedic training at DMACC — blending 3D anatomy, real-world case studies, and hands-on innovation.