Emmetsburg, IA (KICD)--A new award will be christened at tonight's commencement for Iowa Lakes Community College.

The John P. “Jack” Kibbie Outstanding Service Award is being established to keep Senator Kibbie’s contribution to the Iowa Community College system in the hearts and minds of future students. The John P. “Jack” Kibbie Outstanding Service award will honor up to three students each year who ‘exemplify the spirit of service to the college community.

In 1965, Senator Kibbie sponsored the bill to create Iowa’s Community Colleges. During his tenure as an elected official in the Iowa House of Representatives and Senate; as a member of the Iowa Lakes Community College Board of Trustees (from 1970 to 1988); and, again as an Iowa Senator since 1988, Kibbie has remained a steadfast supporter of Iowa’s Community Colleges.