Imagine More

The relationship between Central College and the City of Pella is more than just geographic — it’s historic. Since its founding, Central has grown alongside Pella, shaping and being shaped by the community’s entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to innovation. Recognizing the strength of this enduring partnership, Central and the Pella Area Community and Economic Alliance have launched the “Imagine More: It’s Central to Pella” initiative.

“Imagine More builds upon this legacy, making these connections more intentional and impactful than ever before,” says Carol Williamson, director of the Imagine More initiative. ‟We’ve always worked together, but this is about deepening our ties. It’s about looking at who we are as a college and a city and building relationships that ensure we continue to thrive for the next 100 years.”

Central students lead food stands and lend a helping hand throughout the town during Pella’s annual Tulip Time festival.

Partnership

Through Imagine More, Central and Pella are joining forces in several key partnership areas:

• Business Development: By partnering with local businesses and organizations, the initiative strives to create new economic opportunities. This includes expanding amenities and services that improve the quality of life for both the college community and Pella residents — like extending Central’s flex dining dollars to local restaurants, fostering economic growth and providing more dining options beyond campus.
• Community Engagement: Imagine More intentionally weaves students into the community of Pella in every way. And in return, invites the community of Pella to explore all that Central’s campus has to offer.
• Education: From K-12 collaborations to internship opportunities, Central is deepening its educational ties with Pella. With over 50 local partners, the college is enhancing hands-on learning experiences for students while addressing workforce needs in the community. Through internships, service projects and collaborative events, students gain real-world experience while contributing positively to Pella.
• Housing: Central and Pella are exploring joint ventures to develop housing solutions that benefit both students and local residents. These projects aim to address housing needs while enhancing the community’s vibrancy.
• Workforce: Central students can now easily find jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities within the Pella community. This not only benefits students looking for meaningful work experience but also helps local businesses attract young, skilled talent.

Central alumni make up 10% of the City of Pella’s population — and that number grows exponentially when you factor in current or past parents and employees of the college. That adds up to a lot of good and giving back by the Central family!

“It’s exciting to see all the new ways in which we’re working together,” Williamson shares. “Local businesses are partnering with student organizations to collaborate on events. Faculty are enabling students to provide data and business solutions to area entities. Product partnerships are utilizing Central’s audience resources to provide increased economic opportunities. The list is never ending. There certainly is a lot of good going on. And if you haven’t been back to Central or Pella in the last few years, you are missing out!”

As Imagine More progresses, alumni and friends are invited to participate. Whether through mentorship, investment or sharing expertise, there are numerous ways to contribute to this collaborative vision. By supporting Imagine More, you help strengthen the bond between Central and Pella, ensuring a prosperous future for both.

For more information, visit central.edu/imagine-more. To get involved, contact Carol Williamson at imaginemore@central.edu.

Throughout the year, Central students make a difference in the Pella community through service and community engaged learning opportunities.