Member Spotlight
Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa, stands out as a leader in healthcare education and a valued member of the ILN community. With a strong commitment to preparing future professionals in nursing, public health, radiography, medical laboratory science, and other health‑focused fields, Allen College plays a vital role in strengthening Iowa’s workforce.
Their dedication to hands‑on learning, academic excellence, and community service reflects the values we celebrate across the ILN network. We’re proud to highlight Allen College this month and recognize the impact they continue to make across the state.
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Community Matters
Honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service Allen College was proud to participate in the Pack the Dome event, hosted by the University of Northern Iowa #packthedome2026
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College Events
Join us for Health Careers Night Out and discover exciting opportunities in nursing and health sciences!
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Scholarly Advances
Allen College was awarded a $1,500 Community Development Grant from Aureon to acquire a specialized pediatric code cart for its Simulation Lab. This equipment will significantly enhance clinical education for student nurses, nurse practitioners and practicing nurses at UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital. The new pediatric code cart will contain all necessary supplies for medication administration, airway management, and oxygenation, allowing students and practitioners to participate in simulations of critical pediatric emergencies such as arrhythmias, overdoses and cardiac arrest.
The addition of the cart to the upcoming, expanded Simulation Lab will create realistic scenarios that mirror actual hospital responses. These experiences are designed to improve familiarity, reinforce essential nursing skills and enhance the teamwork and communication crucial during a pediatric emergency code. Ultimately, this investment from Aureon will support the development of highly skilled and responsive nurses who are better equipped to deliver quick, safe and effective care to pediatric patients throughout the community!
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Collaboration is Key
This fall, Allen College nursing students joined Hawkeye Community College paramedic/EMT students and University of Northern Iowa athletic training students for an interprofessional simulation event. Together, they learned about each other’s professions, participated in a pre-event planning meeting, and then had the opportunity to care for an injured player (portrayed by a human actor/ress) on the field.
From on‑scene assessment to safely transporting the patient to a simulated emergency room, students practiced collaboration, communication, and teamwork every step of the way. The partnership between the three colleges has been going strong for four years and continues to be an outstanding opportunity for students to gain hands‑on experience while learning about other healthcare professions.
Photo Credit: Evan Pattee, Hawkeye Community College Digital Media Specialist
Educator Spotlight:
For three decades, Kay Froehner has been a cornerstone of excellence at Allen College. Throughout her 30 years of dedicated service, she has shaped the education of countless nursing students, sharing not only her deep knowledge and expertise but also her unwavering commitment to the profession. Kay is a courageous and visionary leader in nursing education; unafraid to ask the difficult questions, challenge the status quo, and push programs toward meaningful improvement. Her influence can be seen in multiple curricular remodels where her insight and leadership have been invaluable.
A steadfast advocate for students, Kay consistently champions their success, ensuring they receive the support and guidance needed to thrive both academically and professionally. She has also played a quiet but powerful role in mentoring numerous new faculty members, strengthening the foundation of nursing education for generations to come. Kay’s legacy is one of leadership, advocacy, and mentorship—an enduring impact that continues to elevate Allen College and the future of nursing.
What truly makes Kay Froehner stand out is the rare combination of courage, compassion, and forward‑thinking leadership she brings to every interaction. She leads with authenticity and purpose, inspiring others to grow while always keeping the needs of students and the integrity of the nursing profession at the forefront. Her presence elevates colleagues, strengthens programs, and leaves a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work and learn alongside her.
Educator Spotlight:
Zoe Schaefer has been a dedicated member of the Allen College community for two decades, and her total of 41 years of service within the Allen Health System stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to nursing and patient care. Throughout her tenure at Allen College, she has consistently served students with exceptional enthusiasm, passion, and professionalism.
As a family nurse practitioner, Zoe brings a wealth of clinical expertise and real-world insight into the classroom. She enriches the learning experience for every nurse practitioner student who walks through Allen College’s doors, ensuring that they receive not only strong academic preparation but also the practical wisdom necessary to excel in advanced practice roles. Her influence extends far beyond coursework; she models the highest standards of clinical excellence and compassion. Zoe’s long-standing dedication has made her an integral part of the educational experience at Allen College.
Her contributions have shaped generations of nurse practitioners who continue to impact healthcare across the region and beyond. Her legacy is one of service, mentorship, and an enduring commitment to advancing the nursing profession.
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What truly sets Zoe apart is her ability to meet students exactly where they are, offering mentorship that is both challenging and deeply supportive. She has an extraordinary gift for translating complex clinical concepts into meaningful, patient-centered learning experiences. Colleagues and students alike consistently note her calm presence, her thoughtful guidance, and her unwavering commitment to helping each student grow into a confident and capable practitioner.
