Some BIG names are coming to DMACC for CI Week. And it’s free.

Dr. Anthony Paustian has officially retired from DMACC and now owns Book Press Publishing.

Why are these famous people all coming to DMACC in Iowa? Time Magazine “100 Most Influential People,” Dr. Alan Stern; National Geographic “Adventurer of the Year;” Maureen “Mo” Beck; National Geographic Explorer Dr. Niall McCann; Commander Susan Kil-rain; youngest person to pilot a NASA space shuttle mission; and Jonathan Frakes, Commander Ryker on StarTrek. Provost Dr. Anthony Paustian explains why this incredible event is free to the public!

What is CI Week?

CI Week, which stands for Celebrate Innovation, happens annually at DMACC West and is always standing room only. The digital stream hits 65,000 live viewers every year. We dig into the event’s history, and discuss the overview of topics. For example, Susan Kilrain’s “GI Jane” experience where she demanded she complete the men’s requirements, and Dr. Alan Stern who was on the Titan Submersible’s last successful dive before it imploded exploring the Titanic wreckage. 

Dr. Anthony Paustian, the provost of DMACC West and the mastermind behind Celebrate Innovation Week (CI Week), shares the evolution of this inspiring event. What started in 2010 as an initiative to inspire Iowans through real-life stories of innovation and perseverance has transformed into a globally recognized event, attracting speakers from various fields, including technology, exploration, and entertainment.

15 Years of Free Inspiration

CI Week, now in its 15th year, owes its inception to Dr. Paustian’s vision of bringing extraordinary experiences to Iowa. He reminisces about the overwhelming response to the first keynote by Apollo 12 astronaut Alan Bean, which set the stage for the event’s growth. Over the years, CI Week has hosted a remarkable roster of guests, from Steve Wozniak to Tom Hanks, emphasizing the power of free, accessible education. “The people who need to hear the inspiring stories from these people are the ones that can’t afford to pay the big ticket prices,” Paustian notes, underlining the event’s mission to inspire without barriers.

One of the event’s unique aspects is its commitment to being free, thanks to generous sponsors and a shift towards live streaming to reach a wider audience. Last year alone, CI Week reached 65,000 live viewers, a testament to its growing impact. Dr. Paustian highlights the importance of sharing stories that resonate with and inspire people from all walks of life.

Paustian Shapes Future with Education, Innovation

Beyond the event itself, Dr. Paustian shares insights into the changing landscape of education and the pivotal role community colleges like DMACC play in providing relevant, affordable education. He discusses the future of CI Week and his own career, hinting at new ventures that continue to prioritize innovation and education.

CI Week stands as a beacon of inspiration, driven by Dr. Paustian’s dedication to making a difference in people’s lives through education and innovation. As he looks towards the next chapter, his legacy of fostering a culture of curiosity and learning in Iowa and beyond is unmistakable.

Important Links to Check Out

• Publishing company website: https://www.bookpresspublishing.com/ 
• Learn more about CI Week (happening on April 4th)