During a special evening reception held May 6, 2026, at Western Iowa Tech Community College's Cherokee Campus, Cherokee State Bank was honored with Western Iowa Tech's 2026 Community Partner of the Year Award in recognition of its continued leadership and support of the Cherokee Promise Scholarship Program.
Through the Cherokee Promise Scholarship Program, Cherokee County residents can receive free tuition and fees at Western Iowa Tech's Cherokee Campus with a commitment to live and work in Cherokee County for three years after graduation. The program was created to strengthen the local workforce while expanding access to higher education opportunities within the region.
The award recognizes Cherokee State Bank's ongoing investment in students, workforce development, and the future of Cherokee County through its partnership with Western Iowa Tech and support of Cherokee Promise.
"Partnerships like the one we share with Cherokee State Bank create life-changing opportunities for students while strengthening the future of our communities," said Matt Pfister, Executive Director of College Development at Western Iowa Tech Community College. "Their continued support of the Cherokee Promise Scholarship Program demonstrates a deep commitment to education, workforce development, and the success of Cherokee County."
Representatives from Cherokee State Bank expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the impact of the partnership. "It was a rewarding evening hearing from past and present graduates and learning firsthand what Western Iowa Tech Community College has meant to so many students and families in our community," Cherokee State Bank shared. "Their stories are a reminder of the impact education, opportunity, and community partnerships can make together."
Western Iowa Tech Community College continues to partner with businesses and organizations across the region to expand educational access and support student success.
To learn more about the Cherokee Promise Scholarship Program, visit witcc.edu/cherokee.