WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT

Honoree Recognized at WDMLA Graduation Celebration

WEST DES MOINES, IA (May 28, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA) is proud to announce the recipient of its inaugural Alumni Award, recognizing an outstanding graduate who continues to exemplify the leadership principles of the Academy beyond the program.

This year’s Alumni Award recipient, Russ Trimble, Mayor of West Des Moines, was selected for his exceptional commitment to leadership, professional excellence, and community impact. Trimble’s continued dedication reflects the WDMLA’s three core pillars: leading self, leading others, and leading community.

The Alumni Award honors graduates who carry forward the mission of the WDMLA by making a lasting difference in their workplaces and throughout the community. As the first recipient of this award, Mayor Trimble represents the spirit of leadership and service that the Academy strives to cultivate in every class.

“This inaugural Alumni Award represents the very best of what the West Des Moines Leadership Academy stands for,” said Pat Desenberg, Chair of WDMLA Advisory Council. “Mayor Trimble exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, invest in others, and create change. We are proud to recognize his continued commitment to strengthening our community.”

In accepting the award, Mayor Trimble reflected on the impact of the Academy and the leaders who have shaped the program over the years. “I cannot accept this award without acknowledging all of the phenomenal leaders who have come through this incredible program and are equally deserving of this award,” said Trimble. “It is with utmost humility and pride that I accept this award on behalf of all the incredible leaders who have come through this program, including my fellow classmates from the inaugural class of the WDM Leadership Academy — who continue to inspire others and help make this community and Central Iowa what it is today.”

The Alumni Award was formally presented during the WDMLA Class of 2026 Graduation on May 26, 2026, where community leaders, alumni, and families gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s class and recognize outstanding alumni leadership.

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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, the 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. 

About WDMLA

The West Des Moines Leadership Academy, established in 2008 develops confident, community-minded leaders through a hands-on leadership experience focused on leading self, others, and community. Unlike traditional metro leadership programs centered primarily on governance and civic education, WDLMA emphasizes personal growth, leadership development, and practical skill-building that participants can immediately apply in their careers, businesses, and communities. Since its founding, the program has built a strong reputation for producing servant leaders and driving meaningful professional and community impact.