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Free Back-to-School Physicals Available in July
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences offering FREE back-to-school student physicals ahead of the new school year. WEST DES MOINES, IA (07/08/2024) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences is offering FREE back-to-school physicals for students in July ahead of the new school year. The event is designed to ensure that all students are healthy and ready for the upcoming school year. Student doctors and clinic providers will offer a range of services, including a physical exam,
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION WORKPLACE EXCELLENCE AWARDS REGISTRATION OPEN
WEST DES MOINES, IA (TUESDAY, MAY 28, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is thrilled to announce the opening of event registration for the fourth annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Workplace Excellence Awards (DEI Awards). With live entertainment, laughs, tears, uplifting messages, and a spirit of community, this is not your average awards event. Award applications will be closing on June 14 for this community-driven event. Over 90 nominations have been received in previous
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Partners with Habitat for Humanity to Commemorate 100-Year Anniversary
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 30, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its partnership with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity in celebration of the WDM Chamber's 100-Year Anniversary. This landmark collaboration marks a significant milestone in the WDM Chamber's history, showcasing a commitment to community development and service. The WDM Chamber and Habitat for Humanity are partnering to renovate a century-old home in the Valley Junction area, aiming to raise
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
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Pitch Competition Winners for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 19, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2024 Pitch Competition Presented by Bank of America for the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Presented by Wells Fargo. The event was held at the corporate headquarters of Athene in West Des Moines, Iowa on April 18-19. For the 2024 event, more than 100 applications were received from across the U.S., including several from Iowa. Seven finalists were chosen in early April to
WDM Chamber Announces Recipient of the 2024 Mel Essex Award
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 11, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced Blanca Plascencia, Co-owner of El Fogon, as the recipient of the 2024 Mel Essex Award. Plascencia will be honored at the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo on April 19 at 4 p.m. The event will be held April 18-19 at the corporate headquarters of Athene at 7700 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa. The Mel Essex Award honors business and Iowa community
WDM Chamber Opens Registration for YURtern Summer Intern Program
WEST DES MOINES, IA (APRIL 2, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the opening of registration for its YURtern Summer Intern program. YURtern (which stands for "It’s Your Turn" combined with "intern,"), now in its seventh year, offers opportunities for young professionals to gain insights from industry experts on networking, interviewing, and achieving success in their careers. Graduates of the program have gone on to become influential leaders in the community, with
WDM Chamber Announces Keynote Speakers for Fourth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 19, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has revealed the keynote speakers for the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo. Taking place on April 18-19 at the corporate headquarters of Athene (7700 Mills Civic Pkwy) in West Des Moines, Iowa, the event will provide insightful discussions and multiple networking opportunities for all attendees.Over 70 expert speakers and panelists from around the country will be featured
WDM Chamber Introduces Civic Connect to Enhance Business Advocacy
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 18, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced the ongoing initiatives of its Government Affairs Committee, Civic Connect. This committee is dedicated to fostering education, engagement, and encouragement among its members, emphasizing the importance of active participation in civic affairs. Civic Connect is a nonpartisan group of leaders bridging the gap between the business community, local government, and the wider West Des Moines community. Their goal
Announcement of 2024 Pitch Competition Finalists: Bank of America Presents Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 12, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced seven finalists for the 2024 Pitch Competition presented by Bank of America at the fourth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo. The event is held at the corporate headquarters of Athene at 7700 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa on April 18-19.Seven finalists were chosen from a pool of over 100 applicants from across the United States. These finalists will each
WDM Chamber Acknowledges Kara Matheson and Meredith Murphy for Human Resource Certification Achievement
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 7, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce proudly recognizes Kara Matheson, VP of Workforce Development and Culture, and Meredith Murphy, Talent Attraction Manager for achieving certifications from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Kara Matheson has earned the SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) designation, while Meredith Murphy has attained the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) designation. These certifications, granted by the Society for Human
WDM Chamber Opens Applications for 2024 Citizen of the Year & Emerging Citizen of the Year
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, March 4, 2024) – For the 79th 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 March 31, 2024. "This award stands as a testament to the longevity and prosperity of the City of West Des Moines," said Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the WDM Chamber. "Amid our 100-Year Celebration in 2024, these recognitions hold heightened
Drake University Business Clinic Partners with Athene Black & Brown Business Summit to Offer Complimentary Tickets to Students
WEST DES MOINES, IA (March 4, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced a partnership with the Drake University Business Clinic to offer an allotment of complimentary tickets to Iowa high school and college students to attend the 4th Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo hosted April 18-19, 2024 The Drake University Business Clinic will be recognized as a “Future Innovator Sponsor” of the event as a result of the partnership. Students can
WDM Chamber Reveals Mentor Lineup for 7th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference
WEST DES MONES, IA (February 21, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber (WDM Chamber) is pleased to announce the current lineup of mentors for its 7th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference presented by Wellabe, scheduled for March 8th, 2024, at the Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack, and Hotel. The Mentoring for Women Conference provides opportunities for women to gain insights and connections with industry leaders. Among the mentors scheduled to participate are: 72 Degrees – Stacy Daniels Advisory
DAY OF KINDNESS PROCLAIMED AS FEBRUARY 23
WEST DES MOINES, IA (FEBRUARY 13, 2024) – The Governor of Iowa and Mayor of West Des Moines have proclaimed February 23, 2024 as “Day of Kindness.” This special occasion returns for a fourth 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 on the community. This day is all about finding ways to be intentional with acts of kindness. Community members looking for ways to participate are
West Des Moines Chamber Extends Deadline for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition Applications
WEST DES MONES, IA (February 1, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is extending the application period for the 2024 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit pitch competition, presented by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. Applications will be accepted until Saturday, February 10, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. “It is our commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity in entrepreneurship, this extension aims to provide more opportunities for minority-owned businesses,” said
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER ANNOUNCES SPEAKERS FOR FEBRUARY LUNCHEON: UPLIFTING A DIVERSE WORKFORCE - LGBTQ+ LEADERS
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 31, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced speakers for its February Luncheon: Uplifting A Diverse Workforce – LGBTQ+ Leaders presented by Bank Iowa, supported by Iowa Weight Loss Specialists, and featuring a nonprofit spotlight, West Des Moines Soccer Club. This event will feature a panel of influential leaders from five statewide LGBTQ+ nonprofit organizations, each dedicated to serving employees, neighbors, and the broader
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
WEST DES MOINES, IA (JANUARY 31) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the opening of applications for the 2024-25 program. The West Des Moines Leadership program is designed to help aspiring leaders develop their leadership skills and capabilities to make a positive impact on the community. The Leadership Academy is an intensive nine-month program that provides participants with practical training, hands-on
WDM Chamber Opens Registration for 4th Annual Athene Black and Brown Business Summit Presented by Wells Fargo
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 17, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) opens registration for the 4th Annual Athene Black and Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo.Set to take place on Thursday, April 18th, and Friday, April 19th, this event promotes diversity, inclusion, and empowerment in the local, statewide, and national minority business community. It offers practical discussions, dynamic speakers, workshops, and networking. The theme for this year is Dreamers,
WDM Chamber of Commerce announces the 7th Annual Regional Mentoring for Women event presented by Wellabe
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 11, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) along with the Clive Chamber of Commerce announces the seventh annual Mentoring for Women event presented by Wellabe, taking place on March 8, 2024, at Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino. This event provides a unique opportunity for women in Central Iowa to learn from top leaders in the region through fast and focused coaching sessions and learning activities.“This annual event offers a distinctive opportunity for
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Celebration of 100 Years
WEST DES MONES, IA (January 3, 2024) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its celebration of 100 years in 2024, marking a century of growth, collaboration, and prosperity for the city of WDM. The milestone year will highlight the organization's commitment to its members, the strength of the local business community, and the spirit of innovation that has continued its success since 1924.Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber, expressed her enthusiasm for 2024,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Launches Visionary Leaders Forum in Honor of its 100th Anniversary in 2024
WEST DES MOINES, IA (TUESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2024) - The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), a pillar of the business community, is proud to announce the launch of the Visionary Leaders Forumin collaboration with thePrincipal® Financial Network of Central Iowa. The Visionary Leaders Forum is a prestigious gathering of top CEOs and thought leaders poised to shape the future of business and innovation within our community and beyond. This initiative is part of the WDM Chamber's commemoration of
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE THIRD ANNUAL BEST OF THE WEST AWARDS
WEST DES MONES, IA (FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the community vote winners of the Third Annual Best of the West Awards presented by Aureon. The Best of the West Awards is a West Des Moines-focused, community vote contest featuring 50 categories. A list of all 50 winners can be found at www.wdmchamber.org/best-of-the-west. "Congratulations to these outstanding businesses, organizations, and community leaders," said Katherine Harrington,
WDM Chamber to Host November Luncheon: Nonprofit Spotlight
WEST DES MONES, IA (TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2023) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will host the upcoming November Luncheon: Nonprofit Spotlight, presented by Bank Iowa on November 9. The luncheon will highlight the work of 25 nonprofit organizations in our community and each organization will have the opportunity to share insights about their cause."The Nonprofit Spotlight luncheon is a powerful reminder of the incredible impact our local nonprofits have on our community,” said
Lay a Strong Foundation for Your Des Moines Business's 2023
The fourth quarter is upon us, which means it's time to start wrapping up the year and preparing for the next one. For small businesses, that means taking stock of what you've accomplished this year, setting new goals for next year, and planning your holiday marketing strategy. It also means reviewing your inventory, accounting, and tax paperwork, as well as making sure your website and social media profiles are up to date. From the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, here's a rundown of what you need to