Meet Central Students
Where Books and Barn Life Meet
Biology major Morgan Mineart ’26 is turning her love for animals into a passion for vet medicine.
Hitting Higher for Continuous Improvement
After patrolling center field for the Central College softball team during its 2025 NCAA Division III tournament run, Carley Underwood ’27 is in Pella this summer interning with Pella Corporation.
Formulas, Friendships and Finding My Place at Central
Brady Birkenholtz ’27 is excelling at Central as a pre-med chemistry major and a student-athlete. He’s amazed by the support students get balancing academics and athletics.
Behind the Lens
Katie Bower ’27, sports photographer and softball player from Kansas City, Missouri, captures the best moments of Central College athletics — both behind the lens and on the field. Whether she’s snapping action shots or stepping up to the plate, she’s passionate about telling the Central Dutch story.
Climbing Opportunity
Colorado native Katelyn Freeman ’26 never expected to call Pella, Iowa, her home away from home. Now, she’s conquering new mountains at Central as a student with a triple major, two sports and an active social life. She wouldn’t trade this newest adventure for anything.
Season of Growth
California native Amber Santana ’25 is embracing her season of growth at Central College as she discovers the beauty of the Midwest.
On Track For Greatness
Scotty Johnson ’26 has been racing since he was 4 years old. After surviving a life-changing fire accident in high school, he now appreciates the importance of each day and the donors who provide scholarships to Central College students like him.
The Perfect Match
For Pierre Baldwin ’26, choosing Central College wasn’t just about pinning down athletic success — it was about his desire to continue growing as a person. Now a decorated wrestling team captain and highly involved student, Pierre knows Central is his perfect match.
In the Spotlight
Jessica Duffy ’25 was connected to amazing opportunities through the Central College network. During her internship at Des Moines Performing Arts Center under Sara Perez ’02, she gained real-world experiences that helped shape her career aspirations.
A Heart for Nonprofits
For Emma Garrett ’25, doing a world of good is as simple as clocking into her internship at The Work of Our Hands in downtown Pella. As a highly involved English and communications studies major, she loves connecting with the community through her studies.