Des Moines University Announces 2026 Alumni Award Winners Recognizing Leaders in Medicine, Health Care and Education
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/08/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences names its 2026 Alumni of the Year honorees, recognizing graduates whose careers reflect exceptional leadership, service and impact. Selected by the DMU Alumni Board and university leadership, this year's honorees are advancing patient care, shaping future health professionals and improving health systems in communities across the country. "These alumni reflect the very best of DMU," says Angela L. Walker Franklin, PhD,
Des Moines University and Central College Announce Partnership to Expand Health Sciences Pathways
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/06/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences and Central College, a private liberal arts institution in Pella, Iowa, have announced a comprehensive partnership designed to expand pathways for Central students who wish to pursue graduate-level health sciences programs. The collaboration supports student success while helping strengthen Iowa's health care workforce. "This partnership will not only benefit DMU and Central College, but also the state of Iowa at large by
Des Moines University Psychiatrist Presents at International Conference for Women Physicians
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/06/2026) Autumn Brunia, DO, a psychiatrist at Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health, faculty member and 2019 graduate of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, is influencing female physicians from around the world. She recently presented "Thriving Amidst Difficult Personalities" at the Women Physicians Wellness Clarity Conference in Aruba. The conference brings together the world's top speakers on leadership, career development and self-care to share
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Announces Promotions in Facilities and Marketing
WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/01/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences announced two internal promotions. Chris Schmidt, who directs facilities management, and Denise Lamphier, MA, who directs marketing and communications, became senior directors effective July 1. "Chris is a strategic and thoughtful leader with a focus on DMU's continued success," says Mark Peiffer, CPA, MBA, senior vice president and CFO. "He has built strong relationships with our contractors and vendors. Chris is well
NEXT WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CLASS ANNOUNCED
The leaders in the West Des Moines Chamber’s Leadership Academy are announced. WEST DES MOINES, IA (JUNE 30, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), is pleased to announce its 2026-2027 class. This nine-month program will guide emerging leaders on a path to leadership effectiveness through experiential learning, critical thinking, and a community impact project.We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and talented group
New Leadership Joins Des Moines University Alumni Board
WEST DES MOINES, IA (06/29/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has appointed Andrea Perez, a 2002 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduate, to its Alumni Board. Perez will serve a three-year term, supporting alumni engagement efforts and helping advance the university's mission. The Alumni Board also confirmed its executive leadership team, with Eric Neverman, DO, MHA, FAAP, FACP, stepping into the role of president, succeeding Marc Jones, DPM, FACPM, FASPS, and Luke Groben, DO,
Des Moines University Clinic Welcomes Brianna Riggio
DES MOINES, IA (06/22/2026) Des Moines University Clinic welcomes Brianna Riggio, MSN, RN, as director of clinic operations and strategy. In this role, she will oversee day-to-day clinic operations, support workflow optimization and staff development, and help ensure efficient, compliant and patient-centered care across clinic operations. "I am thrilled to join Des Moines University Clinic and become part of an organization known for its excellence in health professions education and dedication to
Jenilee Foster Joins Des Moines University Clinic - Physical Therapy
DES MOINES, IA (06/18/2026) Jenilee Foster, PT, DPT, MHA, has joined the providers at Des Moines University Clinic - Physical Therapy. Foster brings a wealth of experience to the clinic, located at 3200 Grand Ave. at the DMU32 Health and Business Complex in Des Moines. Foster's vast clinical experience includes specializing in orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation and pelvic health. She is a certified spinal manual therapist through the International Spine and Pain Institute and Evidence In
Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health welcomes Julie Rice, LMHC
DES MOINES, IA (06/15/2026) Julie Rice, LMHC, joined Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health as a licensed therapist. She will provide individual and group therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Her experience includes helping people in outpatient mental health settings, using a range of approaches to teach coping skills and support change - such as talk therapy, problem-solving strategies, and techniques to manage thoughts, behaviors and emotions. "Julie is an experienced therapist with a strong
WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2025-26 RAISES NEARLY $90,000 FOR CAN PLAY
WEST DES MONES, IA (May 27, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, congratulates the Class of 2026 on their community project benefiting Can Play. Over the course of the nine-month program, the 42-member class strengthened leadership skills through hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a Community Impact Project focused on expanding and assisting the West Des Moines community members. The class selected Can Play, a non-profit
WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CELEBRATES CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATION
WEST DES MONES, IA (May 26, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, proudly celebrates the graduation of its Class of 2026, recognizing 44 emerging leaders who have completed the Academy’s nine-month leadership development program. Throughout the program, participants engaged in an immersive experience focused on leadership growth, critical thinking, and collaboration. Designed to build strong, community-minded leaders, the Academy
West Des Moines Chamber Celebrates Sixth Annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, presented by Chase
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 21, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) reflects on the success of the sixth annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, presented by Chase. This year, over 500 registrants attended the Summit. Attendees gained tools, insights and connections to help overcome barriers, access resources and spark collaboration. The event featured keynote speakers, panel discussions, a pitch competition, an excursion visiting small businesses and networking
West Des Moines Leadership Academy Application Deadline Extended
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 13, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), announces the extension of applications for the 2026-2027 WDMLA program to 11:59 p.m., Friday, April 17, 2026. WDMLA is designed to help aspiring leaders develop their leadership skills and capabilities to make a positive impact on the community. WDMLA is an intensive nine-month program that provides participants with practical training, hands-on
Community Invited to “Can Play Fore All presented by NCMIC” Mini Golf Event Supporting Inclusive Recreation
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — April 7, 2026 — The West Des Moines Leadership Academy is bringing the community together for a one-of-a-kind event, Can Play Fore All presented by NCMIC on Friday, April 24 from 3-6 p.m. This interactive mini-golf experience will raise awareness of and support for Can Play, a local nonprofit dedicated to making sports and recreation accessible to individuals of all abilities.Held at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines, the event invites community members,
SIXTH ANNUAL DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 27
Mayor Russ Trimble approved the proclamation for “Day of Kindness,” championed by the WDM Chamber’s Leadership Academy Alumni. WEST DES MONES, IA (FEBRUARY 17th, 2026) – Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 27, 2026, as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for its sixth year, created by alumni of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s (WDM Chamber) Leadership Academy who wanted to make a meaningful difference in the community. The day is dedicated to encouraging intentional
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes GuideOne Insurance
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, February 16, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that GuideOne Insurance has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “At GuideOne, we rally around a clear purpose – to make positive change possible by safeguarding the organizations that strengthen and support our communities,” said Travis Sheets, SVP and General Counsel at GuideOne
WDM Chamber Releases 2025 Workforce Survey Results Highlighting Hiring Demand, Skills Gaps and Youth
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has released the results of the 2025 Central Iowa Workforce Survey, providing insight into hiring expectations, workforce challenges, and talent readiness across the region. The survey points to strong employer confidence heading into 2026, alongside growing concern about skills gaps and the need for earlier, more coordinated workforce development strategies. “Businesses across Central Iowa are preparing for growth,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Opens Pitch Applications for Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Jan. 8, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for the 2026 Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit Pitch Competition. The awards for this year’s pitch competition are sponsored by Bank of America. The application submission deadline is Monday, Feb. 9, 2026, by 5 p.m. “Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind strong, thriving communities,” said Annie Brandt, senior vice president and market executive for Bank of America Iowa. “Our continued
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Keynote Speakers and Early Bird Registration Announced for the Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Monday, Dec. 1, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has opened registration for the sixth annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, presented by Chase Bank. The 2026 event will feature Coach Ken Carter and Reggie Love as the keynote speakers. Coach Ken Carter is a successful businessman, author and high school basketball coach best known as the real-life inspiration behind the film “Coach Carter,” starring Samuel L. Jackson. The story comes from his time at
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Open Nominations for 2026 High School Leadership Academy
WEST DES MOINES, IA (October 14, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) today announced that nominations are now open for the 2026 High School Leadership Academy (HSLA)—a free, spring-semester program exclusively for students in grades 9–11 within the West Des Moines Community School District (WDMCS). Led by Meredith Murphy, Director of Future Workforce at the WDM Chamber, HSLA will select 30 students for its 2026 program, featuring four full-day sessions designed to build
City of West Des Moines and West Des Moines Chamber Release Findings from 2025 Business Survey
WEST DES MOINES, IA (September 16, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of West Des Moines, has released the results of its 2025 Business Survey, conducted in May to better understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing the local business community. The survey gathered input from businesses and the community across the region. Responses will help shape future policies, programs, and initiatives designed to support economic growth, enhance city
Keynotes and Current Mentor Lineup Revealed for WDM Chamber’s 8th Annual Regional Mentoring for Women Conference
WEST DES MOINES, IA (August 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the current mentor lineup for its 8th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference, presented by Wellabe, on September 19, 2025, at the West Des Moines Marriott. The event provides women in Central Iowa the chance to learn from top regional leaders through fast-paced coaching sessions and interactive learning activities. “The Mentoring for Women Conference is a valuable opportunity to learn directly from
