Profiles from the Past serves as a tribute to the many instructors, staff, administrators and community members who have significantly affected the institutions that comprise what is currently Riverland Community College. In the years since our College's birth, many people have played significant roles in the structure and sustenance of Riverland

Lowell A. F. Johnson served as Coordinator of the Evening School Program at the Austin Area Vocational Technical Institute (AAVTI), now Riverland Community College, from 1974 to 1982. With an extensive background in vocational education, Lowell provided experienced leadership at a crucial time in the school's development.

Don Ingram, former Director of AAVTI, remembers Lowell as energetic and enthusiastic about the evening school. "He felt a strong sense of responsibility to the men and women who were out in their occupations and returned in the evening to upgrade their skills."

Course offerings in 1978 covered industrial, automotive, business and office skills, plus home economics and parenting. Other courses were aimed at farmers and the building trades. The program expanded as businesses, nursing homes and others came to Lowell with their needs and he did his best to meet them.

John Gedker, retired Riverland Community College President, taught at AAVTI and was recruited by Lowell to expand the evening program offerings. He was encouraged by Lowell's easy going, appreciative approach. John credits Lowell with setting the goals and directions that formed the basis for the "Customized Training" courses offered in later years.