Northeast Community College has been awarded a $20,000 scholarship grant from Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) as part of its 2026 Scholarship Grant cycle, reinforcing the college’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to students in the Siouxland region.
The award will support scholarships for students who meet MRHD’s eligibility criteria, specifically those who are residents of Woodbury County, Iowa, or graduates of a Woodbury County high school. The grant was formally announced during an awards ceremony held on February 19 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Sioux City, with local media and regional higher education institutions in attendance.
“This investment directly supports students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue higher education,” said Northeast Community College President Leah Barrett. “Scholarships like this remove financial barriers, help students stay focused on their academic goals, and strengthen the workforce and communities we serve. We are grateful to MRHD for recognizing the value of Northeast and our commitment to student success.”
MRHD cited Northeast’s role in delivering accessible, high-quality education throughout the Siouxland region as a key reason for the award.
“We value the role that Northeast Community College plays in providing accessible and high-quality educational opportunities for students in the Siouxland region,” MRHD shared in a statement. “MRHD is pleased to support your continued efforts to help students pursue their academic and professional goals.”
The scholarship funding aligns closely with Northeast’s mission to open doors to education, empower students from varied backgrounds, and prepare graduates for meaningful careers that contribute to regional economic vitality. By targeting students from Woodbury County, the award strengthens cross-state educational partnerships and ensures local students have pathways to affordable postsecondary education.
About Missouri River Historical Development
Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community through impactful grants that improve quality of life for all. Founded in 1989, MRHD serves as Woodbury County’s Qualified Sponsoring Organization, holding the county’s gaming license and ensuring that gaming revenues benefit the community.
MRHD’s grant program began in 1994 and has since awarded more than $60 million in total grants, including more than $40 million generated through its partnership with Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Sioux City, which opened in 2014. Through support of educational, civic, cultural, and charitable initiatives, MRHD continues to play a vital role in building a stronger, more vibrant Siouxland region.
For more information about MRHD, visit https://mrhdiowa.org/.
MRHD Donation
David Bernstein (from left), president of the MRHD Board of Directors; Jessie McCormick; Kristy Sandman; and Northeast Community College President Leah Barrett are shown following the presentation of a $20,000 MRHD scholarship award to Northeast during the 2026 Scholarship Grant awards ceremony at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Sioux City on Thursday, February 19.
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