WDM Chamber Announces Visionary Leaders Legacy Forum Series and Featured Leaders
WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 6, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has launched the Visionary Leaders Legacy Forum, a new monthly speaker series featuring influential Iowa executives who are nearing or have recently entered retirement after decades of service. Each forum highlights a leader’s personal career journey, key lessons learned, and the legacy they aim to leave behind. The series is designed to inspire both emerging and established professionals through the stories of those who have
WDM Chamber Opens Applications for Reignite CommUNITY
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 29, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has opened applications for the 2025 Reignite CommUNITY event. Applications close May 30 at 11:59 p.m. Reignite CommUNITY focuses on action and impact around four pillars: educate, elevate, celebrate and motivate. The event is designed to strengthen businesses, organizations, and communities through conversation and recognition. The 2025 Reignite CommUNITY event will be held October 22 from 5–7 p.m. at the Des
West Des Moines Chamber Celebrates Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 29, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce reflects on the success of the fifth annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo. 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, entrepreneurial excursion and networking sessions. “The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit plays a vital role in tackling
DMU Announces AOA President as Commencement Keynote Speaker
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/28/2025) Trailblazing physician and osteopathic medicine leader Teresa Hubka, D.O.'89, FACOOG (dist.), FACOG, CS, will deliver the keynote address at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' 125th Commencement in May. Hubka, a highly respected obstetrician/gynecologist, is president of the American Osteopathic Association, a national organization dedicated to advancing osteopathic medicine through promoting public health, supporting scientific research and serving as
BofA Launches ‘Golf with Us’ to Bring Affordable Rounds to More Than 50,000 Youth Nationwide
CHARLOTTE and MONTEREY, CA — Bank of America today announced the launch of Golf with Us, a new initiative designed to grow the next generation of golfers. Golf with Us offers youth, ages 6-18, a free one-year membership to Youth on Course, courtesy of Bank of America. Enrollment in the program is open until May 24, 2025, and includes access to thousands of courses in 97 markets for $5 or less per round. The courses are in the Youth on Course network. “When kids get involved in sports, they learn
Brandon Gockley Named Chief Information Officer (CIO) at The Iowa Clinic
West Des Moines, Iowa (April 23, 2025) – The Iowa Clinic is pleased to announce the appointment of Brandon Gockley as Chief Information Officer (CIO), bringing a strategic vision that unites innovative technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. With a career rooted in healthcare transformation, Gockley joins The Iowa Clinic to lead technology strategy, drive modernization, and support clinical and operational excellence through secure, intelligent, and future-ready systems. “We are
Remembrance Ceremony Honors Individuals Who Give the Ultimate Gift for Medical Education
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/21/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences will honor 47 individuals, including 12 honored veterans, at this year's Body Donation Remembrance Ceremony. The annual service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at the Olsen Center at 3200 Grand Ave., invites faculty, staff, students and body donor families to remember these individuals who have generously given their bodies to further medical education. These individuals play a critical role in the
MIDWESTONE Bank to Open New Jordan Creek Branch
West Des Moines, IA (April 18, 2025) – MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: MOFG), parent company of MidWestOne Bank, a pre-eminent relationship-driven community bank will open a new branch at 1245 Jordan Creek Parkway, Suite 140, West Des Moines, IA in the R&R Realty Summit Building on May 12th. The addition of this branch supports our growth initiatives to serve the region, expanding to three locations across the Des Moines Metro. “We’re excited to open our new boutique-style branch on Jordan
Greater Dallas County Development Alliance Unveils Small Business Grant Fund
Dallas County, (April 17, 2025)– During an Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce luncheon, the Greater Dallas County Development Alliance proudly announced today the launch of its Small Business Grant Fund, a new initiative focused on supporting local entrepreneurship and small business to stimulate economic growth. With an annual funding pool of $10,000, the grant aims to provide essential financial support to small businesses within the community. Application Details: Small businesses operating in a
One Day for DMU Ignites Support for Future Medical Leaders
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/17/2025) Alumni, faculty, staff and friends showed up for the seventh annual One Day for DMU campaign and raised an astounding $272,524.86 from 342 individual donors. The 24-hour giving campaign for Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences took place from noon-to-noon April 16-17, and the campus was buzzing with excitement. The campaign kicked off with the Deans' Cup Challenge, which featured three rounds of the "Pin the Organ on the Body" game. Last year's winner,
West Des Moines Chamber Announces Pitch Competition Winners for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 17, 2025) — The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2025 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition. The pitch competition was held on April 16 and is supported by Bank of America. The Athene Black & Brown Business Summit is presented by Wells Fargo. For the 2025 event, more than 400 applications were submitted by small-business owners from across the world, including several from Iowa. Seven finalists were chosen in early March to
DMU Expands Research Team with New Director Appointment
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/16/2025) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences welcomed Kellie Sheets, M.B.A., FACHE, CRA, as the director of research operations, compliance and strategy in April. With over 18 years of experience, Sheets brings a wealth of leadership experience across various areas, including regulatory compliance, financial management, business operations, research administration, strategic planning, data management and stakeholder engagement. The director role is new to the Office
Bonded Through Baldness: DMU Students Shave Their Heads in Support of Pediatric Cancer Research
WEST DES MOINES, IA (04/14/2025) Medical school is often described as a journey filled with challenges, long hours and a commitment to helping others. For a few Des Moines University Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Class of 2028 students, that journey recently took on a more personal meaning. Mark Nemcek, Jackson Watson, Donald Walk and Lane Mulder shaved their heads as part of a St. Baldrick's Foundation event, standing in solidarity with their friend and fellow student, Tanner Kelm, who had childhood
Bank Iowa Adds Two Accomplished Iowa Leaders to Board of Directors
Courtney Chabot Dreyer and Megan Milligan join the board of Iowa’s second-largest, family-owned bank (West Des Moines, Iowa – Apr. 1, 2025) — Bank Iowa today announced the addition of two new directors for its nine-person board, Courtney Chabot Dreyer and Megan Milligan. Chabot Dreyer is assistant general counsel for Casey’s General Stores, a position she assumed in July 2023 following several legal counsel appointments for major brands across the state. In addition to her legal expertise, Chabot
WDM Chamber Announces Catalyst Award Presented by Principal®, to Be Awarded at Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 8, 2025) – The 2025 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo will introduce an exciting new honor this year: the Catalyst Award, presented by Principal®. This award will recognize one standout finalist from the Summit’s Pitch Competition, where eight innovative entrepreneurs will showcase their businesses before a panel of judges and a live audience. "We are thrilled to support this pitch competition because it embodies our commitment to fostering
WDM Chamber Announces Catalyst Award Presented by Principal®, to Be Awarded at Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (April 8, 2025) – The 2025 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit presented by Wells Fargo will introduce an exciting new honor this year: the Catalyst Award, presented by Principal®. This award will recognize one standout finalist from the Summit’s Pitch Competition, where eight innovative entrepreneurs will showcase their businesses before a panel of judges and a live audience. "We are thrilled to support this pitch competition because it embodies our commitment to fostering
WDM Chamber Announces Speakers for May 2025 Luncheon
WEST DES MOINES, IA (April 1, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces its speakers for the May Luncheon: Real Estate & Economic Development Trends, presented by Shive-Hattery, with supporting sponsor Samuels Group and non-profit spotlight Meals from the Heartland. The event will take place on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the Arcadia Building, 7000 Vista Drive, West Des Moines, from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM. The annual West Des Moines Real Estate Trends & Investments Luncheon brings
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Announces Recipient of the 2025 Mel Essex Entrepreneur of the Year Award
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 25, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced Rachelle Long, founder and executive director of Taste of the Junction, as the recipient of the 2025 Mel Essex Entrepreneur Award. Long will be honored at the Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo, on April 17. The Summit will take place at the Sheraton West Des Moines Hotel on April 16–17. Long is a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for
2025 Pitch Competition Finalists Announced for Athene Black & Brown Business Summit
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 10, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce has announced seven finalists for the 2025 pitch competition at the Fifth Annual Athene Black & Brown Business Summit. The pitch competition is supported by Bank of America, and the Summit is presented by Wells Fargo. “Bank of America congratulates the finalists of the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition,” Annie Brandt, senior vice president and market executive for Bank of America Iowa. “We are proud to
WDM Chamber Opens Registration for YURtern Summer Intern Program
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Mar. 4, 2025) - The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the opening of registration for its YURtern Summer Intern program. YURtern (which get its name from a combination of "It’s Your Turn" combined with the word "intern,"), now in its eighth year, offers opportunities for young professionals to gain insights from industry experts on networking, interviewing, and the transition from college to career. Graduates of the program have gone on to become influential
West YP Seeks Experts on Workplace Boundaries for April 15 Event
WEST DES MONES, IA (FEBRUARY 27, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber’s West YP program is seeking leaders who have mastered the art of setting boundaries at work for an upcoming speaking engagement. A total of 10 dynamic professionals are needed who can share their experiences and insights at an event on April 15. This unique event will focus on real-world lessons in overcoming burnout, managing expectations, advocating for oneself, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Instead of a traditional
West Des Moines Chamber Launches High School Leadership Academy to Empower Future Leaders
WEST DES MOINES, IA (February 25, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) announces the launch of the High School Leadership Academy (HSLA), a new initiative designed to equip students with leadership skills, real-world experience, and career exploration opportunities. Through expert-led sessions, hands-on learning, and direct engagement with professionals, HSLA will help students in grades 9-11 within the West Des Moines Community School District develop the confidence and
WDM Chamber Reflects on Two Years of Talent Attraction Campaign
West Des Moines, Iowa – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) is celebrating the impact of its two-year Talent Attraction Campaign (TAC), an initiative designed to strengthen the workforce pipeline and promote West Des Moines as a top destination for career growth. Through targeted programming and marketing, TAC helped businesses connect with job seekers at all levels. TAC was divided into two main pathways to attract and retain talent. The Coast-to-Coast Package expanded West Des
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
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
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
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
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
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.
