I’m Alexandra Dermody, your elected Trustee for Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, representing Northwest Davenport. I ran for this seat because I believe our colleges should remain affordable, accessible, and accountable to the people they serve, especially working families, students balancing work and school, and adults returning to school to build better futures.

My background is rooted in community work. I’ve spent years organizing, advocating, and helping people navigate systems that don’t always work the way they should. At Quad Cities Interfaith, I helped bring people together around real issues, from fair education policies to equity for students with disabilities and students of color. Later, as Board President, I saw firsthand how local leadership can drive lasting change when we listen to those most affected.

I also served on the board of Community Centered Counseling Services, where I supported efforts to expand access to mental health care. Professionally, I’ve worked in both organizing and private-sector roles, including media and strategy work with Accenture. Those experiences taught me how to navigate complex systems, balance budgets, and still keep people at the center of decision-making.

I hold an MBA from the University of the People and continue to serve in leadership roles within Iowa’s civic and political landscape as Vice Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party Progressive Caucus, a member of the State Central Committee, and a proud member of the Democratic Socialists of America.

At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: transparency and accountability aren’t just words; they’re a responsibility. As Trustee, I’m working to freeze tuition, expand job training in high-demand fields like healthcare, trades, and technology, and make sure EICC operates openly and honestly.

Serving you on the EICC Board is an extension of that lesson. I’m here to keep our colleges strong, affordable, and truly community-driven, because every student deserves a real chance to succeed without being priced out of opportunity.