Beyond the Textbook
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Anatomy Ambassadors Program Lets Students Hold Science in Their Hands WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/18/2026) At an Anatomy Ambassadors Program event at Ankeny Centennial High School this past spring, Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences students fielded questions from high schoolers in Chad Fickbohm's anatomy classes. The curiosity in the room was unmistakable - and so was the impact of seeing human anatomy up close. Through hands-on exposure to
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty Help Shape Understanding of Ancient Human Relatives
WEST DES MOINES, IA (08/05/2026) Two Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences researchers are helping unravel one of the most intriguing mysteries in human evolution. New findings from the ongoing Homo naledi project suggest that all 20 fossil individuals from a cave in South Africa were female - a discovery that is prompting scientists to reconsider assumptions about this ancient human relative's behavior, social structure and treatment of the dead. Heather Garvin, PhD, a forensic
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,
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
