Des Moines University President Publishes New Book on Leadership
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/19/2025) Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., president and CEO of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, has published a new book, Leadership From the Ground Up. It offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at her leadership journey. The book provides a glimpse into Franklin's 13-year tenure at DMU, the nation's second-oldest university dedicated to osteopathic medicine and health sciences. It captures the lessons, challenges and triumphs she encountered while guiding DMU
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER LAUNCHES WEST YP APP & VYP PROGRAM
WEST DES MONES, IA (FEBRUARY 18, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is excited to announce the launch of the West YP App, a groundbreaking tool designed to revolutionize the way young professionals connect, learn, and grow. Available exclusively to members of the West YP program, this app is a reimagined experience tailored for Central Iowa’s next generation of leaders. West YP is the young professional program powered by the WDM Chamber that launched in 2021 and has since
LEGACY BRIDGE EXPANDS ITS FAMILY OFFICE SERVICES TEAM WITH SENIOR TALENT
Tamara Fleming, CTFA, Joins Growing Multi-Family Office February 4, 2025—WEST DES MOINES, IOWA—Legacy Bridge Private Family Offices is pleased to announce that Tamara Fleming, CTFA, has joined the firm as Relationship Manager. This most recent addition to the growing multifamily office deepens the already compelling capabilities of its Family Office Services team. Tammy, with a career spanning more than 25 years and who brings a strong fiduciary and planning background to this position, will focus her
R&R Realty Group Turns 40: A Legacy of Building for the Future
Four Decades of Innovation and Growth in Commercial Real Estate WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (February 13, 2025)—R&R Realty Group, a leader in commercial real estate in the Midwest, is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Founded in 1985 by Dan Rupprecht, the company has grown from a small operation to one of the region’s largest family-owned real estate firms, recognized for its commitment to quality, community, and innovation. From its beginnings, R&R Realty Group has expanded its reach, now owning and
DMU Clinic Expands Custom Arch Support Services to RecPlex
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/12/2025) People with conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, foot injuries and other foot and ankle issues now have a new option for custom arch support care. Custom arch supports also have the potential to help those with knee, hip and back pain. Starting March 4, Jarrod Smith, D.P.M., D.ABFAS, will offer personalized arch support services at the Des Moines University Clinic in the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex at 6500 Grand Ave. Smith, a podiatric specialist with
FIFTH ANNUAL DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 28
Governor Kim Reynolds and Mayor Russ Trimble approved the proclamation for “Day of Kindness,” championed by the WDM Chamber’s Leadership Academy Alumni. WEST DES MOINES, IA (Feb. 11, 2025) – The Governor of Iowa and Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 28, 2025, as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for a fifth year of impact after being created by the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s (WDM Chamber) Leadership Academy Alumni who were seeking a way to make a positive impact
WDM Chamber Announces 2025 Citizen, Emerging Citizen of the Year
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Feb. 11, 2025) – For the 80th consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and the City of West Des Moines has announced the annual West Des Moines (WDM) Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year, Jennifer Hahn and Robert Palmer. “Jennifer Hahn and Robert Palmer exemplify the heart and soul of West Des Moines through their leadership, passion, and dedication to community service,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the WDM Chamber. “Jennifer’s
Global Gurus - Monte Wyatt Named #3 World’s Top 30 Organizational Culture Professionals
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, February 4, 2025) –The Top 30 Gurus, in their respective categories are the “Cream of the Crop”, the World’s Top 30 most influential Professionals Speakers, Trainers and/or Consultants in their areas and have been voted on by peers and the public. All not only apply their own principals to achieve superior results in their organizations, but develop and influence people and organizations throughout the globe. Our research came from e-mails sent to 22,000 business people,
Shannon Crout, D.O.'10, Returns to DMU Clinic to Elevate Holistic Patient Care
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/10/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' Shannon Crout, D.O.'10, has joined the physicians at the Des Moines University Clinic - Osteopathic Manual Medicine. Board certified in Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine/Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine, Crout brings over a decade of clinical experience and a patient-centered approach that emphasizes whole-body wellness and trauma informed care. A DMU 2010 alumna, Crout completed her residency in NMM/OMM at Mercy Health
Lori Chesser elected president of Dentons Davis Brown
Des Moines, IA, February 2025 – Dentons Davis Brown is pleased to announce that immigration shareholder Lori Chesser was elected by her peers to serve as President of the firm. John Pietila, who served as President for the past six years, will transition to the role of Business Division Chair while continuing his full-time law practice. Under John’s leadership, the firm successfully combined with Dentons, expanded its representation of key clients, and navigated the challenges of an unprecedented
Grants Available Through the Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation
Grants Available Through the Wright Foundation for Sustainability and InnovationApplications are being accepted from nonprofits working on tree canopy improvement and regenerative agricultural projects.WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (February 10, 2025) – The Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation (“WFSI”) is now accepting applications for its fifth grant cycle through March 21, 2025. Funds will be awarded this summer for WFSI’s Tree Canopy Improvement Grant and the John Harsch Regenerative Agriculture
DMU and Hawkeye Community College Partner to Bolster Iowa's Health Care Workforce
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/05/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences and Hawkeye Community College's Health Sciences have formed an alliance to increase health sciences education in the state of Iowa. The partnership with Hawkeye Community College, located in Waterloo, Iowa, will provide a more streamlined pathway for students interested in occupational therapy to train and practice. "This partnership opportunity developed through relationship building with Hawkeye's occupational therapy
ACCESS CARES FOUNDATION DONATES $50,000 TO EVERYSTEP’S AMANDA THE PANDA IN MEMORY OF JEFF RUDEN
Access Cares Foundation Donates $50,000 to EveryStep’s Amanda the Panda in Memory of Jeff Ruden [Waukee, IA] – February 3, 2025 – Access Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Access Systems, is proud to announce a $50,000 donation to EveryStep’s Amanda the Panda grief support program, in memory of Jeff Ruden, former Vice President of Service at Access Systems, who passed away in March 2022. Jeff Ruden was a cherished member of the Access Systems family and a passionate advocate for community
DIY in the Junction
West Des Moines, February 4, 2025 – The Historic Valley Junction Foundation is pleased to announce DIY in the Junction, an experiential event where attendees can take classes and make crafts at participating shops in Valley Junction. The event will take place on Saturday, February 22, inside the shops on 5th Street. Eight shops will have different activities or classes: • Make Your Own Cat Toy or Cat Kicker @ Coffee Cats • Tea Steeping 101 @ The Spice & Tea Exchange • Fun & Funky Earring Bar @
DMU's College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Partners with Biomedix for Better Vascular Care
WEST DES MOINES, IA (02/03/2025) Biomedix, a pioneer in medical technology and innovation, has announced a clinical and educational sponsorship with Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. The sponsorship by Biomedix is designed to provide students with access to cutting-edge technology for vascular assessments. This includes the PADnet 5th Generation and PADnet Xpress devices, along with a comprehensive suite of digital assessments that will prepare
West Des Moines Chamber Extends Deadline for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Jan. 31, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is extending the application period for the 2025 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition, sponsored by pitch partner, Bank of America. Applications will be accepted until midnight on Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025. “We’re passionate about creating opportunities for all entrepreneurs,” said Angela Jackson, senior vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion at Athene. “This effort is a meaningful stride
Ryan Radloff Brings Experience and Knowledge as New DMU Wellness Center Director
WEST DES MOINES, IA (01/29/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences welcomes Ryan Radloff as the new Wellness Center Director. With over 14 years of professional experience in health, wellness and fitness, Radloff brings a wealth of expertise and a vision for fostering health and well-being within the DMU community. This appointment comes after the retirement of Joy Schiller, who was the Wellness Center Director for 35 years. "I look forward to creating an inclusive and innovative hub
Second Keynote Announced for Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced Kely Nascimento as the second keynote speaker for the Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo. Nascimento is co-founder and chief impact officer of Hadaf Global, which helps organizations worldwide inspire change through the universal language of sports. Her work focuses on fostering cultural connections, building international partnerships and advancing
R&R Realty Group Announces Leadership Promotions
Jenny Livingston and Mike Herrmann Take on New Roles WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (January 27, 2025) — R&R Realty Group (R&R) is pleased to announce the promotions of Jenny Livingston to Vice President of Human Resources and Mike Herrmann to President of Advantage Property Management. Livingston, formerly Senior Vice President of Tenant Relations, brings over 20 years of experience in property management. She has been key in leading customer relations and driving high performance across R&R’s portfolio, while
Ajay Sharma, D.O., Joins DMU Clinic's Osteopathic Manual Medicine Team
WEST DES MOINES, IA (01/27/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' Ajay Sharma, D.O., has joined the providers at the Des Moines University Clinic - Osteopathic Manual Medicine. Sharma will bring over two decades of clinical and academic experience to the clinic, located at 3200 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Sharma is board-certified in osteopathic emergency medicine and medical acupuncture through the Helms Medical Institute. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the
Avenue Scholars Awarded Grant to Strengthen Skilled Trades Pathway for DMPS Students
Des Moines, IA — January 24, 2025 Avenue Scholars is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a significant 5-year grant from the Thomas and Linda Koehn Foundation. This funding will be used to expand and enhance the Skilled Trades Pathway for students within Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS). The grant underscores Avenue Scholars’ commitment to preparing students for rewarding careers in high-demand industries, while addressing the workforce needs of the local community. The Skilled Trades Pathway
Lingerie + Luxe: A Symphony of Curvy Silhouettes + Sparkle
Des Moines, IA – January 21, 2025 – Prepare to be captivated by an unforgettable evening of elegance, empowerment, and enchantment. On Saturday, January 25, the Sherwood Forest Event Center in Des Moines will come alive with the debut of Lingerie + Luxe: A Symphony of Curvy Silhouettes + Sparkle, a Desert Dreamers production celebrating beauty in all its forms. This spectacular runway show will showcase the newly expanded Icon Collection by Harlow + James, a line that redefines lingerie by embracing
Des Moines University Names Regional Simulation Center Director
WEST DES MOINES, IA (01/22/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences appoints Beth Culross, Ph.D., RN, GCNS-BC, CHSE, as the inaugural director of its new Des Moines University Regional Simulation Center at 3200 Grand. Culross, a nationally recognized expert in simulation-based education and health care training, will lead the development and operations of the simulation center, currently under construction and slated to open in late Fall 2025. The regional simulation center, at DMU's 3200
WDM Chamber Announces Speakers for February 2025 Luncheon
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, January 14, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its speakers for the February Luncheon: INSPIRE 2025, presented by Bank Iowa and featuring Non-Profit Spotlight on Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa. February’s luncheon will feature insights from industry leaders on innovation, collaboration, and ignite action for the year ahead. “INSPIRE 2025 is an incredible opportunity to hear from thought leaders who are shaping our future,” said Katherine
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Q1 Luncheons for 2025
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, January 7, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its quarter-one luncheons for 2025, presented by Bank Iowa and Shive-Hattery. These events will focus on welcoming new members in January and the annual INSPIRE theme in February.January Luncheon: New Member AppreciationPresented by Shive-Hattery The January Luncheon will recognize new members who joined the WDM Chamber since December 2023. Featuring a Non-Profit Spotlight on Waukee Area
The CTA, BOI and FinCEN: What Does this Mean for West Des Moines, IA Businesses?
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. Read more for details on how this may impact your business in the future. 1. Determine if
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Unveils 515 West Magazine
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, December 3, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has officially launched the 2025 bi-annual edition of 515 West, a magazine showcasing the best of West Des Moines, during the Best of the West Awards Celebration on December 3, 2024, at The Rewind Hotel. The magazine features 50 advertisers and highlights the city’s strengths across six key sections:WDM Chamber – Celebrating a Century of Serving Our Community and Region This section honors the history
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Three New Team Members
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, December 3, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the hiring of Tricia Even, Jared Galligan, and Lauren Watson. Even will serve as the organization’s events and experiences coordinator, while Galligan and Watson will serve as the WDM Chamber’s new account executives. All three team members started on Monday, December 2, 2024. “We are proud to welcome new talent to our team at the WDM Chamber, as we continue to grow and expand our impact
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MONES, IA (MONDAY, November 25, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2025 Board of Directors, a diverse group of leaders that will guide, serve, and shape the WDM Chamber and West Des Moines community. “Our 2025 Board of Directors are made up of key leaders in our city and region who represent a wide range of industries and businesses from small, medium, and large.” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Speakers for December Luncheon: Future of Tourism and Hospitality
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 19, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the lineup for its next luncheon set to take place on Thursday, December 12, 2024, featuring five expert speakers. The event, presented by Bank Iowa and Shive-Hattery, will focus on the future of hospitality, entertainment, and tourism in West Des Moines and Central Iowa. Industry experts will share insights on emerging technologies, changing consumer behaviors, and new market
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Launches “Google Fiber Founding Member Challenge”
WEST DES MOINES, IA (November 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the launch of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Foundation (WDM Chamber Foundation) and a Google Fiber Match Challenge at a ribbon cutting on November 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the WDM Chamber office. At the ribbon cutting, the Board of Trustees announced a “$5,000 Foundation Founders Gift and Google Fiber Match Challenge” where organizations and individuals become founding
Keynote and Registration Announced for Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has opened registration for the fifth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo. The 2025 event will feature Christine Hà as the keynote speaker.Christine Hà is a Vietnamese American chef, writer, and TV host who rose to fame as the first blind contestant and winner of MasterChef Season 3 in 2012. Despite losing her vision due to an autoimmune condition called neuromyelitis
Bank of America Renews as Presenting Sponsor for Pitch Competition
West Des Moines, IA – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced that Bank of America has renewed its commitment as the exclusive presenting sponsor of the Pitch Competition at the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit. Bank of America's sponsorship will extend for the next three years, through the 2027 event. The Pitch Competition is a signature component of the Summit, providing a platform for ethnic and racial minority entrepreneurs to pitch their business to a panel of judges. The
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Winners of Fifth Annual Best of the West Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 5, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the community vote winners of the Fifth Annual Best of the West Awards. The Best of the West Awards supported by Silver Sponsors, The Iowa Clinic, Trilix, and Champion Sponsor, Allo Business, is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest featuring 100 categories. A list of all 100 winners can be found at https://wdmchamber.org/best-of-the-west/. “We are thrilled to recognize these
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UNVEILS THEME AND DATE FOR 2025 ANNUAL DINNER
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Friday, November 1, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the date, location, and theme for its 2025 Annual Dinner. The celebration is set for Wednesday, March 5, at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines. This year's theme, "Wild Wild West," features a country-inspired community celebration complete with live entertainment and surprises. “We are incredibly grateful for the community support we have received as we celebrate the final months
WDM Chamber Now Accepting Nominations for 2025 Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Thursday, October 31, 2024) – For the 80th consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the annual West Des Moines Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year nominations are now open through January 15, 2025. “This award celebrates the remarkable contributions of our Citizen of the Year, whose impact resonates throughout West Des Moines,” said Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the WDM Chamber. “As we mark the WDM Chamber’s Annual Dinner
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Nonprofits for November Luncheon: Nonprofit Spotlight
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, October 29, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the lineup for its next luncheon set to take place on Thursday, November 14, 2024, featuring several nonprofit organizations. Presented by Bank Iowa and supported by Symetra, this event will showcase 23 organizations dedicated to serving and strengthening their communities in diverse ways. Participating in the luncheon include: ARL Avenue Scholars Big Brothers Big Sisters Boy Scouts
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Launches New Foundation on November 12, 2024, to Celebrate 100-Year Anniversary
WEST DES MOINES, IA – (October 7, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the launch of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Foundation (WDM Chamber Foundation) at a ribbon cutting on November 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the WDM Chamber office. All are welcome to attend. The new foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to addressing community and regional needs in innovative ways and is one of ten special initiatives celebrating the WDM
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Opens Voting for 5th Annual Best of the West Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (October 1, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is now accepting votes for the annual Best of the West Awards. The Best of the West Awards is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest now featuring 100 categories. The award ceremony is set to take place on December 3, 2024, at the Rewind Hotel in West Des Moines. “We encourage everyone to cast their vote for the Best of the West Awards,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the WDM Chamber.
New Dean of Osteopathic Medicine at Des Moines University
Accomplished physician, educator and visionary in osteopathic medicine to spearhead college's futureWEST DES MOINES, IA (04/25/2024) After an extensive national search, David Connett, D.O., has been appointed dean of the Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine, effective July 1, 2024. "An accomplished physician, educator and visionary in osteopathic medicine, Dr. Connett brings exceptional experience and qualifications to his new role. He is a recognized leader in osteopathic medicine
DMU President Franklin Receives CASE Chief Executive Leadership Award
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/18/2024) Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, was honored April 16 with the 2024 Chief Executive Leadership Award for District VI of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. The award recognizes an outstanding president, chancellor, headmaster or system head of a District VI CASE member institution for outstanding efforts in promoting and supporting education and institutional
Turner Growth Results in Office Relocation & Expansion
Des Moines, IA: Turner Construction, a leading construction management company, is thrilled to announce the relocation and expansion of its Iowa office. The office, which serves as the home-base for 300+ of Turner's Iowa-based employees, will now be situated at 4200 Corporate Drive in West Des Moines.Turner is spearheading the design-build efforts for an 8,000+ SF comprehensive renovation of the space, with an estimated completion date set for the summer of 2024.To commemorate this significant milestone,
Palmer Group Announces Senior Leadership Changes
Palmer Group Announces Senior Leadership Changes March 4, 2024 | West Des Moines, Iowa – Palmer Group announced the promotion of three employee-owners. The newly created senior leadership positions are a part of the company’s realignment strategy and succession planning. “I’m very excited about the strategic planning we have been doing as an organization,” said David Leto, President and CEO. “All three of these leaders are tenured professionals and have had a tremendous impact on our
