Northeast Community College alumnus Jarad Dahlkoetter, a 2012 graduate, credits his time in Norfolk with laying the foundation for a career that now spans large-scale events across the United States and internationally.
Jarad earned an associate of arts degree in 2012 and said choosing Northeast allowed him to stay close to family and friends while benefiting from a supportive and community-focused learning environment.
“The Norfolk and Northeast Nebraska communities are special,” Jarad said. “Being able to stay near the people I love while continuing my education was incredibly important to me.”
Jarad emphasized that Northeast’s smaller class sizes provided a more personal academic experience compared to larger universities, where it can be difficult to build meaningful connections. At Northeast, he was able to connect with instructors and explore a broad range of academic interests, including courses outside of his primary focus.
“That sense of community and connection is something you don’t find everywhere,” he said. “It really stays with you.”
Among his favorite memories are attending campus theater productions, spending time in student gathering spaces, and forming relationships with faculty and staff. He also noted the lasting impact of his academic advisor, Pattie Schuckman, who helped guide him during his time at Northeast.
After graduating, Jarad remained actively involved in the Norfolk community. He worked at the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce, helped plan local events, served on the Norfolk City Council, and volunteered with several organizations.
“That time really built a foundation for me,” he said. “I became very civically engaged and started building relationships that shaped my career.”
Today, Jarad serves as a project manager on the meetings team at the Association of the U.S. Army. In his role, he plans large-scale military events across the globe, including international exhibitions and conferences with tens of thousands of attendees. His work has also provided opportunities to support high-profile national events and collaborate with organizations at the highest levels.
Now based in New York City, Jarad maintains strong ties to Northeast Nebraska and continues to credit the region for shaping his character and work ethic.
“I can’t stress enough how much Northeast Nebraska and the people there influenced who I am,” he said. “You won’t find that same level of care, attention, and community just anywhere.”
Jarad also highlighted Northeast Community College’s reputation as both a high-quality educational institution and a strong employer that values its workforce and contributes positively to the local community.
“I always felt like Northeast really took care of its employees and valued them,” he said. “That stands out.”
For current and future students, he encourages taking advantage of the opportunities offered at Northeast and recognizing the value of starting their educational journey close to home.
“There’s a lot of pressure to go straight to a four-year school, but Northeast is an incredible place to begin,” Jarad said. “It provides a strong foundation and the flexibility to figure out your path.”
Despite his global career and life in a major metropolitan area, Jarad remains proud of his roots.
“I still tell people about Nebraska every chance I get,” he said. “Most people haven’t been there, and I always tell them they should. I’m proud to be from there.”
Northeast Community College encourages all alumni to share their stories by visiting northeast.edu/giving/alumni. Alumni are also encouraged to join the Northeast Community College Alumni Association group on LinkedIn by visiting www.linkedin.com/groups/1996723/.
