The Aims Community College Board of Trustees proudly announces Lyle Achziger as the 2025 Distinguished Fellow Award recipient.
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Lyle Achziger Named 2025 Aims Community College Board of Trustees Distinguished Fellow
May 22, 2025
Lyle Achziger and Marilyn Schock, Chair of the Aims Board of Trustees, at the presentation of the 2025 Distinguished Fellow Award at the May commencement ceremony.
The Distinguished Fellow Award has been presented annually by the Aims Board of Trustees since 2005. It recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional character, professional integrity, leadership and service. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals with extraordinary commitment and service to Aims Community College and the broader Northern Colorado community. Achziger was formally recognized at the Aims Commencement Ceremony on May 16.
Achziger, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, began his connection to Aims in 1971 when he returned home from service and enrolled at the college. He earned his associate degree and continued his education at the University of Northern Colorado before dedicating himself to community engagement in a wide variety of roles over the next five decades.
In 1977, a CPR course at Aims launched Achziger into a lifelong career in emergency services. He became a paramedic, taught CPR and EMT courses, and eventually served as an assistant professor at Aims for 10 years. During this time, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Aims Public Safety Institute into a top-rated facility and programs to train first responders. His impact extended to teaching hundreds of EMTs across Northern Colorado and establishing the area’s first emergency medical services council, where he helped develop emergency response protocols for Weld County. Achziger also served as a volunteer firefighter with the Ault-Pierce and Evans fire departments and was the first EMS coordinator for Weld County.
Following his retirement from emergency services, Achziger continued his civic engagement work as Mayor of the City of Evans from 2008 to 2014. In this role, he led the city through the 2013 flood crisis with dedication and poise.
Lyle Achziger speaks at the Aims Welcome Center Ribbon Cutting event.
In 2015, Achziger was elected to the Aims Community College Board of Trustees, serving until 2023. His leadership as Secretary and later Chair of the Board was instrumental in guiding the college through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and completing its 2018-2023 strategic plan.
“Lyle has been a gift to Aims Community College and Northern Colorado’s community,” said Aims Board of Trustees treasurer, Heidi Windell. “He is a true example of a distinguished fellow.”
For more information about the Distinguished Fellow Award and the Aims Board of Trustees, visit aims.co/BOT. The deadline for next year's nominations is February 28, 2026.
