WDM Chamber Announces 2026 Citizen, Emerging Citizen of the Year

WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, Jan. 12, 2026) – For the 81st consecutive year, the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) and the City of West Des Moines have announced the annual West Des Moines Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year, Dan Houston and Kara Matheson.
 
Dan Houston and Kara Matheson represent the kind of leadership that moves a community forward,” said Katherine Harrington, president and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. “Through decades of service, Dan has helped shape both a global organization and our local community, while Kara’s dedication and energy continue to strengthen West Des Moines in meaningful ways. Their impact extends far beyond their careers, and we are honored to recognize them as Citizen and Emerging Citizen of the Year for the difference they make every day.
 
Dan Houston is a retired business leader whose career spanned more than 40 years at Principal Financial Group, where he rose from early roles to serve as president, chief executive officer, and executive chair. Based in Des Moines, Houston helped guide the company’s growth across retirement, insurance, and global asset management while steering the organization through periods of economic change and international expansion. Throughout his career, he was known for a steady, people-centered leadership style rooted in accountability, long-term thinking, and service to others. In retirement, Houston remains engaged in civic and nonprofit efforts focused on economic development, workforce readiness, and strengthening communities across Iowa.
 
“Joanie and I have been citizens of West Des Moines for over 36 years. Our children and grandchildren have grown up here,” said Houston. “I can’t think of a better place to raise a family and to be included in such a vibrant community as we have right here in West Des Moines. It’s both an honor and a privilege to receive this recognition.”
 
Kara Matheson, SHRM-SCP is a passionate community builder whose leadership has sparked lasting impact across West Des Moines and Central Iowa. Through initiatives like the Reignite CommUNITY Awards, Day of Kindness, YURtern, West YP, and the West Des Moines Leadership Academy, Kara has championed inclusion, service, and local talent development. Her work has connected thousands, elevated employee experiences, developed the next generation of leaders, and inspired civic engagement. After almost a decade of dedication and innovation in the Chamber of Commerce world, she continues her pursuit of making the world of work a better place for all at ITA Group, based here in West Des Moines.
 
“I’m beyond honored to have even been recognized for this award,” said Matheson. “To me, after my last 7 years working at the West Des Moines Chamber, this recognition is truly a reflection of the Chamber itself and what kind of impact can happen when amazing leaders come together and really care about uplifting their community and the people in it.”
 
Both award recipients will be honored at the WDM Chamber’s Annual Dinner on February 26, 2026, at the Val Air Ballroom. Registration for the event is $100 per individual or $1000 for a VIP table of eight. Those interested in attending can learn more and register through https://wdmchamber.org/events/annual-dinner/.
 

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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
Recognized by ACCE (Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives) as one of the top Chambers in the nation, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is the largest, most active chamber in the Greater Des Moines region. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, boosting economic development, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating over a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 1000 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines and our entire region at wdmchamber.org.