News
West Bank Adds Kelsey Ray as Vice President, Commercial Banker
West Bank has announced that Kelsey Ray has joined the bank as Vice President, Commercial Banker at its headquarters in West Des Moines, Iowa. Ray brings more than 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, most recently serving as a commercial relationship manager. She also has experience as a portfolio manager and credit analyst. She earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Iowa State University. “Kelsey’s experience working closely with clients and building strong relationships is a
NEXT WEST DES MOINES LEADERSHIP ACADEMY CLASS ANNOUNCED
The leaders in the West Des Moines Chamber’s Leadership Academy are announced. WEST DES MOINES, IA (JUNE 30, 2026) – The West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA), a program of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber), is pleased to announce its 2026-2027 class. This nine-month program will guide emerging leaders on a path to leadership effectiveness through experiential learning, critical thinking, and a community impact project.We are thrilled to welcome such a dynamic and talented group
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Wright Service Corp.
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Wednesday, April 29, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Wright Service Corp. has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “Our region’s continued growth is powered by leaders who are deeply committed to strengthening our business community,” said Katherine Harrington, President and CEO of the WDM Chamber. “Our President’s Council and
Community Invited to “Can Play Fore All presented by NCMIC” Mini Golf Event Supporting Inclusive Recreation
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — April 7, 2026 — The West Des Moines Leadership Academy is bringing the community together for a one-of-a-kind event, Can Play Fore All presented by NCMIC on Friday, April 24 from 3-6 p.m. This interactive mini-golf experience will raise awareness of and support for Can Play, a local nonprofit dedicated to making sports and recreation accessible to individuals of all abilities.Held at the MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex in West Des Moines, the event invites community members,
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Foster Group
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, March 3, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Foster Group has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “At Foster Group, we believe meaningful impact is built over generations through trusted relationships and thoughtful planning,” said Rachel Edge, Head of Business Development at Foster Group. “As an independent, employee-owned
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes GuideOne Insurance
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Monday, February 16, 2026) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that GuideOne Insurance has joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “At GuideOne, we rally around a clear purpose – to make positive change possible by safeguarding the organizations that strengthen and support our communities,” said Travis Sheets, SVP and General Counsel at GuideOne
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes Athene and Lincoln Savings Bank
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, December 16, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that Athene and Lincoln Savings Bank have joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “We are driven to make a lasting difference in the places where we live and work,” said Kristi Kaye Burma, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Athene. “Joining the West Des Moines
West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce President’s Council Welcomes HPE Juniper Networking and R&R Realty Group
WEST DES MOINES, IA (Tuesday, October 21, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that HPE Juniper Networking and R&R Realty Group have joined its President’s Council, a group of key supporters committed to advancing the WDM Chamber’s mission and regional business growth. “Engaging with the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce as a President’s Council member is more than a badge,” said Tom Florian, Account Manager for HPE Juniper Networking, “It’s a commitment to the
West YP Sets New Membership Record
WEST DES MOINES, IA (July 29, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce’s young professionals program, West YP, has reached a new milestone with 273 members representing 106 businesses across Central Iowa—the highest in program history. Membership continues to grow weekly. West YP offers monthly events focused on professional development, networking, and leadership. Anyone can join year-round, with 2025 dues currently prorated to $40. "We're building something special here. West YP is about








