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 shaped Iowa’s business landscape.

The inaugural event takes place on May 28, 2025, and features Rob Denson, President of Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). Denson became DMACC’s fourth president in 2003 and has led the institution through transformative growth. Raised on a farm near Homestead, Iowa, and a graduate of a one-room country schoolhouse, his career reflects visionary leadership grounded in community values.

“As Jay Byers would say, ‘We are standing on the shoulders of giants,’” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce. “This series is about honoring those giants—leaders who have shaped our business community—and learning from their stories to inspire the next generation. We’re proud to bring these powerful stories to our region.”

The full 2025 lineup includes:

• May 28 – Rob Denson, Des Moines Area Community College

• June 25 – Greg Edwards, Catch Des Moines

• July 30 – Marta Codina, Wells Fargo

• August 27 – Michelle Book, Food Bank of Iowa

• September 24 – Mike McCoy, NCMIC

• October 29 – Speaker TBD

• December 3 – Dan Houston, Principal Financial Group

Tickets are $50 per event, and WDM Chamber President’s Council members receive complimentary admission. For more details and registration, visit wdmchamber.org
 

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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 900 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 at wdmchamber.org