New Leadership Joins Des Moines University Alumni Board
WEST DES MOINES, IA (06/29/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has appointed Andrea Perez, a 2002 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine graduate, to its Alumni Board. Perez will serve a three-year term, supporting alumni engagement efforts and helping advance the university's mission. The Alumni Board also confirmed its executive leadership team, with Eric Neverman, DO, MHA, FAAP, FACP, stepping into the role of president, succeeding Marc Jones, DPM, FACPM, FASPS, and Luke Groben, DO,
Des Moines University Clinic Welcomes Brianna Riggio
DES MOINES, IA (06/22/2026) Des Moines University Clinic welcomes Brianna Riggio, MSN, RN, as director of clinic operations and strategy. In this role, she will oversee day-to-day clinic operations, support workflow optimization and staff development, and help ensure efficient, compliant and patient-centered care across clinic operations. "I am thrilled to join Des Moines University Clinic and become part of an organization known for its excellence in health professions education and dedication to
Jenilee Foster Joins Des Moines University Clinic - Physical Therapy
DES MOINES, IA (06/18/2026) Jenilee Foster, PT, DPT, MHA, has joined the providers at Des Moines University Clinic - Physical Therapy. Foster brings a wealth of experience to the clinic, located at 3200 Grand Ave. at the DMU32 Health and Business Complex in Des Moines. Foster's vast clinical experience includes specializing in orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation and pelvic health. She is a certified spinal manual therapist through the International Spine and Pain Institute and Evidence In
Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health welcomes Julie Rice, LMHC
DES MOINES, IA (06/15/2026) Julie Rice, LMHC, joined Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health as a licensed therapist. She will provide individual and group therapy to clients ages 18 and up. Her experience includes helping people in outpatient mental health settings, using a range of approaches to teach coping skills and support change - such as talk therapy, problem-solving strategies, and techniques to manage thoughts, behaviors and emotions. "Julie is an experienced therapist with a strong
Des Moines University Welcomes New Director of Corporate, Foundation and Grants Relations
WEST DES MOINES, IA (06/10/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences welcomed Elizabeth Kozor, MBA, as its first-ever director of corporate, foundation and grants relations. Kozor will provide leadership in those strategic fundraising efforts for the university, building high-impact relationships locally and nationally to drive significant philanthropic investment in DMU. "We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth to Des Moines University in this important, newly envisioned role," says
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Graduates First Class of Occupational Therapy Students
DMU's Newest Alumni Will Help Address OT Shortages WEST DES MOINES, IA (06/03/2026) At Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences' 126th Commencement, the longstanding institution celebrated a first by awarding 22 Doctor of Occupational Therapy degrees. Occupational therapists are skilled health care professionals who help people of all ages who, for diverse reasons, have been impaired from doing the meaningful activities of daily life. Nationally and in Iowa, there are significant shortages of
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences Graduates Over 430 Health Care Professionals
DES MOINES, IA (06/01/2026) Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences awarded graduate degrees in medicine and health sciences to over 430 new health care professionals at its 126th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 29, 2026. The event celebrated the achievements of the DMU Class of 2026, including many dual-degree students and the first graduates of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. Angela L. Walker Franklin, PhD, DMU's president and CEO, reminded the new graduates to be strong
WEST DES MOINES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced its 2026 Board of Directors, a group of local and regional leaders who will help guide the Chamber and support the continued growth of the West Des Moines community. Board members will work closely with Chamber staff to support members, set priorities, and strengthen the business community. “Our 2026 Board of Directors includes leaders from a wide range of industries and businesses,
