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 capabilities to lead in their schools, workplaces, and communities. The inaugural program will be launched with the first HSLA Workshop on April 8, 2025, at Valley High School. 

“The High School Leadership Academy will provide students with valuable insights and skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom,” said Meredith Murphy, Talent Attraction Manager of the WDM Chamber. “By connecting them with leaders across industries, we hope to spark inspiration and prepare them for whatever comes next!” 
Keynote Speaker & Workshop Highlights: The April 8 workshop will feature Joseph Jones, Executive, Chief of Staff at Des Moines University, as the keynote speaker, sharing insights on overcoming failure, success, and leadership development. 

Students will also have the opportunity to engage with a career exploration panel featuring professionals from the trades, nonprofit sector, medical field, and corporate world and connect with young professional mentors for guidance and networking. The students will end their day with a case study competition.  

How to Apply or Nominate a Student: HSLA’s first class will be selected through a nomination process and reviewed by a panel of educators and WDM Chamber team members. Students may nominate themselves, or teachers, parents, and school staff can submit nominations on behalf of an unlimited number of students. A total of 30 students will be selected for the inaugural class. For the 2025 workshop students in grades 9-11 from Valley Southwoods, Walnut Creek, and Valley High School are encouraged to apply. Submit a student nomination here: wdmchamber.org/hsla 

Looking Ahead, The Future of HSLA: In 2026, HSLA is planned to extend to a full Academy schedule, offering four full days of immersive leadership development for even larger groups of students across the City of West Des Moines. 

The success of HSLA is made possible through the support of business and community leaders. Sponsorship opportunities are available, including Presenting, Supporting, Scholarship Sponsorships. Thank you to the current supporters including Supporting Sponsor NCMIC and Scholarship Sponsors IMT Insurance, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Merchants Bonding Company Foundation, DMACC, BVU, Athene, and City Councilwoman Renee Hardman.

For more information, contact the WDM Chamber Team. For more information about HSLA and sponsorship, visit wdmchamber.org/hsla or email Meredith Murphy at meredith@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.