Madison Joyce Joins as an Associate Attorney
Whitfield & Eddy Law is pleased to announce that Madison (Maddie) Joyce has joined the firm as an associate attorney in the labor and employment practice group, where she will work with clients in closely-held businesses, including a focus on construction and transportation industries. Maddie earned her Juris Doctor with distinction from the University of Iowa College of Law in 2026 and her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Iowa in 2023. Maddie can be reached at
Cerity Partners Merges with Gilbert & Cook, Building on More Than 30 Years Serving Clients and Families in Iowa
The merger brings together two relationship-driven wealth management firms with shared core values and a commitment to long-term client service. Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA, [9/18/26]—Cerity Partners and Gilbert & Cook today announced their intention to merge, effective at the end of September. Cerity Partners is a leading independent wealth management and investment advisory firm with offices nationwide. Gilbert & Cook is a respected wealth management firm based in West Des Moines, Iowa. Through
The Life of a Philanthropist: How to Save a Life
WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/17/2026) As a first-year medical student at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, Parag Patel, DO'92, took a trip to Kenya - his birthplace - that would ultimately shape the course of his life. There, he witnessed firsthand the stark realities of limited medical resources: a lack of basic supplies like stethoscopes, tape and gauze and undertrained medical workers overwhelmed by the volume of patients. Many, especially women and children, were dying from preventable
Devin Boyer, Nicolet Bank in West Des Moines Appointed to American Bankers Association’s Emerging Leaders Council
WEST DES MOINES, IOWA – Devin Boyer, SVP & Central Iowa Market Leader for Nicolet National Bank in West Des Moines, Iowa has been appointed to the American Bankers Association’s Emerging Leaders Council for the 2026-2027 association year. The council is focused on identifying, connecting, developing and engaging the current and next generation of bankers to lead our industry, guiding ABA in the creation of new opportunities in leadership development, networking, advocacy, financial literacy and
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Launches Doctor of Medical Science Program
Advancing Physician Associate/Assistant Careers WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/16/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has opened applications for its new Doctor of Medical Science program - the first of its kind in Iowa. Drawing on DMU's strong reputation in physician associate/assistant education and related health sciences disciplines, the fully online DMSc is a four-term, 30-credit, cohort-based degree designed for PAs seeking to advance into clinical leadership, education or research
Life After DMU: Life of a Public Health Officer
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/15/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Date for First Responders Appreciation Breakfast Presented by GFiber
WEST DES MOINES, IA (September 15, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce will host its First Responders Appreciation Breakfast presented by GFiber on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at Jethro’s BBQ ’n Bacon Bacon. The event will bring together business leaders, community members and local first responders for a morning of appreciation and connection. The breakfast provides an opportunity to recognize the brave men and women who work each day to protect, serve and strengthen
Research Symposium and Young Scientist Program at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences
WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/14/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences will host its 2026 Research Symposium and Young Scientist Program on Nov. 13-14 on its campus at 8025 Grand Ave. in West Des Moines. The annual event, open to faculty, students, staff, members of the regional medical and scientific community and high school students, will showcase innovative research being conducted across multiple disciplines at DMU and beyond. Pravin Mishra, PhD, MBA, chief research officer at DMU,
Life After DMU: Life of a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/11/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Life After DMU: Life of a Scientist
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/10/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
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Merchants Bonding Company Announces New Leadership Structure Designed to Accelerate Growth
Taylor to become Chief Executive Officer and remain Chairman of the Board; Sandersfeld will step into President roleWEST DES MOINES, Iowa, September 10, 2026 — Merchants Bonding Company announced today that current President Larry Taylor will become the company’s Chief Executive Officer, effective Jan. 1, 2027. The CEO role is newly created. Taylor will continue to serve as Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors. Taylor has selected Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer Elisabeth
Life After DMU: Life of a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/08/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Over 450 Students Enter Health Career Journey At Des Moines University Medicine and Health Science's
WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/08/2026) On Friday, Sept. 4, 456 students from five programs at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences received their first white coats during the university's White Coat Ceremony - an event that marks the beginning of students' professional journeys and their commitment to becoming compassionate and competent health care providers. "Students, when you don the white coat, you assume not only the responsibilities, but also the obligation that attend to those who choose
Limitless MFG Ranks No. 1 in Apparel Manufacturing on the 2026 Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies
LOS ANGELES, September 08, 2026--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Limitless MFG today announced it has been ranked No. 1 in apparel manufacturing and No. 823 on the 2026 Inc. 5000 list, the annual list of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The recognition marks Limitless MFG's second consecutive appearance on the Inc. 5000, following its No. 129 ranking on the 2025 list.The Inc. 5000 is the nation's most recognized and prestigious benchmark for private-company growth. Recognizing companies that have
Life After DMU: Life of a PA
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/04/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Life After DMU: Life After DMU: Life of a Podiatrist
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/03/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences and Baylor University Partner to Create Health Sciences Pathways
WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/02/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences and Baylor University, a private university in Waco, Texas, have announced a partnership designed to expand educational pathways for Baylor students interested in pursuing graduate-level health sciences degrees. Effective July 2026, qualified students in Baylor's Master of Science in Medical Science program will be eligible to apply for five reserved seats annually in DMU's Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program. In
BrownWinick Promotes Kasey Vogel to Chief Growth Officer
DES MOINES, Iowa — September 2, 2026 — BrownWinick Law Firm is pleased to announce the promotion of Kasey Vogel to Chief Growth Officer. In this executive leadership role, Vogel will guide the firm’s integrated growth strategy, leading the development of the infrastructure, technology, and firmwide capabilities necessary to support BrownWinick’s continued evolution as the largest Iowa-based law firm. Vogel joined BrownWinick in September 2023 as Director of Marketing and Business Development. Since
A Routine Visit That Changed Everything
The Impact of Advancing Research - and One Doctor's Instinct by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (09/01/2026) In 2018, Karla Peiffer met with her primary care provider, Sarah Tallman, DO'09, at The Iowa Clinic for a routine checkup. Peiffer had been seeing Tallman for nearly a decade and knew the visit would be thorough. The one thing Tallman had been encouraging Peiffer to do was undergo genetic testing for the breast cancer gene due to her family history. When
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Hosts Mental Health CME Conference
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/31/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences will host the Psychiatry for Non-Psychiatrists CME conference on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. This conference equips non-psychiatric health care professionals with practical knowledge and skills to recognize, assess, and manage common mental health concerns encountered in clinical practice. Topics will include benzodiazepine addiction and management, somatic symptom and related disorders, personality disorders, recognizing and
Life After DMU: Life of a Health Administrator
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/28/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Life After DMU: Life After DMU: Life of a Physical Therapist
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/31/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty Member Publishes Research on Improving Food Allergy Treatment Decision-Making
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/26/2026) A new paper published in "Frontiers in Allergy," an international peer-reviewed research journal, explores the significant gap in clinical decision-making regarding which food allergy patients are most likely to benefit from specific allergy treatments and at what level of risk. Heather Opseth, DMS, PA-C, assistant program director of the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, published "Bridging
Des Moines University Clinic Welcomes First Psychology Intern
DES MOINES, IA (08/26/2026) For the first time, Des Moines University Clinic has a psychology intern on its team, providing advanced clinical training while expanding access to mental health care. "Bringing on our first psychology intern is an historic step for us," says Autumn Brunia, DO, a 2019 graduate of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program and psychiatrist at DMU Clinic - Behavioral Health. "It's an opportunity to do our part in addressing the
Iowa Center for Children's Justice Honors Angela Connolly and Jennifer Hahn with the 2026 Champions for Children Awards
Des Moines, Iowa (August 25, 2026) — The Iowa Center for Children's Justice (ICCJ) named Angela Connolly and Jennifer Hahn its 2026 Champions for Children Awardsrecipients, recognizing their dedication, leadership, and advocacy that has made a lasting difference in the lives of children and families across Iowa. The awards will be presented during ICCJ's annual Champions for Children celebration on Thursday, September 17, 2026, honoring Connolly and Hahn’s commitment to protecting and supporting
Life After DMU: Life of an Anatomist
10 DMU Degrees. 10 Alumni Stories. 10 Ways to Make a Difference. by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/25/2026) Whether they studied osteopathic medicine, public health or biomedical sciences at 722 Sixth Avenue, 3200 Grand Avenue or the new campus at 8025 Grand Avenue, graduates of Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences share one thing in common: the degrees they earned prepared them to care, to lead and to serve. It's a physical therapist helping
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Student Receives 2026 CVS Caring Heart Scholarship
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/24/2026) A student in Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program has been awarded a $10,000 Caring Hearts Scholarship from the CVS Health Foundation. Bryn Miller was selected for her academic achievements, service activities and dedication to providing care to others. "Being recognized with such a meaningful scholarship is truly an honor," Miller says. "I strive to approach every interaction with compassion,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Unveils Theme and Date for 2027 Annual Dinner
WEST DES MOINES, IA (August 11, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the date, location, and theme for its 2027 Annual Dinner. The celebration will take place on Thursday, February 25, at The Meridian in West Des Moines. This year’s theme, “Studio 515,” will bring the energy and spirit of the disco era to life with a vibrant evening of connection, celebration, and community. Guests are encouraged to embrace the theme and arrive in their best disco and 1970s-inspired
WDM Chamber to Represent at ACCE Annual Conference in New Orleans
WEST DES MOINES, IA (July 14, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announced that Katherine Harrington, President & CEO of the WDM Chamber and President of the WDM Chamber Foundation, Everett Mullican, Director of Marketing, and Anne Cooper, future Chair of the WDM Chamber Board of Directors, will attend next week's annual conference hosted by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) in New Orleans. The ACCE Annual Convention brings together chamber professionals
Keynotes Announced for WDM Chamber’s 9th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference
WEST DES MOINES, IA (July 7, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the keynote speakers for its 9th Annual Mentoring for Women Conference, presented by Wellabe, on September 9, 2026, 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. “Mentoring for Women is one of my favorite events. From mentors who generously share their
WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT
Honoree Recognized at WDMLA Graduation Celebration WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 28, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA) is proud to announce the recipient of its inaugural Alumni Award, recognizing an outstanding graduate who continues to exemplify the leadership principles of the Academy beyond the program. This year’s Alumni Award recipient, Russ Trimble, Mayor of West Des Moines, was selected for his exceptional commitment to leadership, professional excellence, and community impact.
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 of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Wright Service Corp.
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Wednesday, April 29, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Wright Service Corp. has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “Our region’s continued growth is powered by leaders who are deeply committed to strengthening our business community,” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber. “Our President’s Council and
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 CHAMBER'S LATINO TRADE NETWORK TO HOST HISPANIC CHAMBERS UNIDOS EVENT
Midwest Hispanic Chamber Leaders Gather to Strengthen Regional Collaboration WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 16, 2026) — The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce's Latino Trade Network (LTN) will host Hispanic Chambers Unidos, a gathering of Hispanic Chamber leaders from across the Midwest, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. CDT at the Des Moines Heritage Center, 120 E. 5th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309. This first LTN event of 2026 is designed to bring together Hispanic Chamber
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,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Recipient of the 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 31, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced Ying Sa, CEO at Community CPA & Associates, Inc. as the recipient of the 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur Award. Sa will be honored at the Sixth Annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, presented by Chase. The Summit will take place at the Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel on April 14–15. Sa is the founder and Principal Certified Public Accountant at Community CPA. The firm provides tax, audit,
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Inaugural Dan Houston West Young Professional Leader of the Year Award, Honors 2026 Recipient Jacob Repp
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Mar. 24, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and West YP have announced a new legacy partnership with Dan Houston, former President and CEO of Principal Financial Group, celebrating the impact of emerging leaders and strengthening the region’s commitment to developing the next generation of talent.As part of this partnership, West YP has established the “Dan Houston West YP Leader of the Year Award,” an annual recognition honoring exceptional
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Pitch Finalists for Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 16, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced seven finalists for the 2026 Pitch Competition at the sixth annual Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit. The Pitch Competition is supported by Bank of America, and the Summit is presented by Chase. “Bank of America congratulates the finalists of the Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit Pitch Competition,” Annie Brandt, senior vice president and market executive for Bank of America, Iowa. “We are
What It Takes to Reopen: Emergency Planning for West Des Moines Small Businesses
Emergency planning for small businesses means having documented response procedures, tested communications, protected data, and trained employees ready before any crisis arrives. The SBA estimates that one in four businesses will not reopen after a disaster — and FEMA data shows 90% of businesses unable to resume within five days of a disaster fail within a year. For West Des Moines businesses operating in a region familiar with ice storms, river flooding, and extended outages, these are real risks with
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Foster Group
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, March 3, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Foster Group has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “At Foster Group, we believe meaningful impact is built over generations through trusted relationships and thoughtful planning,” said Rachel Edge, Head of Business Development at Foster Group. “As an independent, employee-owned
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
West Des Moines Chamber Extends Deadline, Removes Fees for Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit Pitch Competition
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Feb. 10, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has extended the application period for the 2026 Athene Beyond Boundaries Pitch Competition and eliminated the application fee to expand access. The awards for this year’s pitch competition are sponsored by Bank of America. The application submission deadline has been extended to Sunday, March 1, 2026, by 5 p.m. “This update is all about possibility,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the West Des
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,
Nominations Now Open for 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (Feb. 2, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Nominations must be submitted by Monday, March 2, 2026, at 5 p.m. Presented annually at the Athene Beyond Boundaries Business Summit, the Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award honors the legacy of Mel Essex, an extraordinary entrepreneur, advocate and mentor. Essex’s enduring impact continues to inspire entrepreneurs to pursue success,
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2026 Board of Directors, a group of local and regional leaders who will help guide the Chamber and support the continued growth of the West Des Moines community. Board members will work closely with Chamber staff to support members, set priorities, and strengthen the business community. “Our 2026 Board of Directors includes leaders from a wide range of industries and businesses,
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
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Athene and Lincoln Savings Bank
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, December 16, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Athene and Lincoln Savings Bank have joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “We are driven to make a lasting difference in the places where we live and work,” said Kristi Kaye Burma, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Athene. “Joining the West Des Moines
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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
WDM Chamber Announces Speakers for its 2025 December Luncheon: HR Innovation
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 18, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its speakers for the December Luncheon: HR Innovation, co-presented by Bank Iowa and Shive-Hattery and supported by Connectify HR. This luncheon will focus on how innovation is reshaping Human Resources, with regional leaders discussing employee engagement, the use of AI in HR, effective attraction and retention strategies, modern benefits that support today’s workforce, and practical
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Unveils Theme and Date for 2026 Annual Dinner
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 11, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the date, location, and theme for its 2026 Annual Dinner. The celebration will take place on Thursday, February 26, at the Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines. This year’s theme, “Mission: Possible,” draws inspiration from the power of possibility—celebrating the bold ideas, collaborations, and community-driven achievements that continue to make West Des Moines an extraordinary place to
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Winners of Sixth Annual Best of the West Awards
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, November 4, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced the community vote winners of the Sixth Annual Best of the West Awards. The Best of the West Awards, supported by Silver Sponsor, The Iowa Clinic, and Champion Sponsors, Google Fiber and The City of West Des Moines, 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’re
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Achieves 1,000-Member Milestone
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, October 27, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce today announced a major membership milestone, officially surpassing 1,000 members—a reflection of the Chamber’s continued growth and community impact. So far in 2025, the Chamber has gained 187 new members, further strengthening its network of businesses and leaders across the region. “When I first started as President & CEO at the Chamber on April 1, 2020, we had 592 members. It’s incredible to see how we’ve
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes HPE Juniper Networking and R&R Realty Group
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, October 21, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that HPE Juniper Networking and R&R Realty Group have joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “Engaging with the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce as a President’s Council member is more than a badge,” said Tom Florian, Account Manager for HPE Juniper Networking, “It’s a commitment to the
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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
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West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and ITA Group Launch New Podcast, The Drive
WEST DES MOINES, IA (October 7, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), in partnership with ITA Group, is excited to announce the launch of a new podcast series, The Drive. This engaging new series will carry forward the momentum of the Chamber’s CEO Insights podcast, building on its success while taking conversations in a fresh direction. The Drive will explore leadership, business innovation, and community impact through dynamic conversations with influential voices from across
