Lead DSM

10/16/2026

“The impact was having time to self reflect and identify my purpose, which allowed me to make more decisions in my life that were more aligned with my values.” Jarael Madyun, CC '22, GDMLI '25

Every Community Connect alum’s story is unique — but they all start with one decision: to apply.

Use your purpose to shape the future of our region through the Community Connect program.
🔗 Apply or recommend someone by Nov. 2 at leaddsm.org/communityconnect/

10/15/2026

Unlocking human potential starts with recognizing the incredible strengths that already exist! 💡 Lead DSM Community Connect alums, Amal Barre (CC '20), Betsy De Glopper (CC '23), and Rachel Less (CC '26) share their insights on how leaders help us tap into our inner greatness.

The best leaders help others recognize their own potential.

Suzanna de Baca explores the importance of leaders identifying others' strengths in this week's Leading Fearlessly: https://fearlessbr.com/the-gift-of-being-seen-how-good-leaders-help-us-recognize-our-own-potential/

10/15/2026

The brain is remarkable, capable of processing vast amounts of information with impressive speed. And, it takes mental shortcuts that lead to some pretty questionable decisions. 🤔

In our recent Leadership Workshop Series, Heather Jones-Brown and Jawanza Evans from Grinnell College guided us in understanding how to outsmart our own brains. We learned how to spot those sneaky biases and make decisions that are actually informed, accurate, and fair.

Stay tuned for the list of 2027 Leadership Workshop topics and sign up for more events in 2026 at members.leaddsm.org/events!

10/15/2026

Applications are open for Community Connect!

Greater Des Moines thrives when purpose meets service. The Community Connect program can help! Over nine weeks, participants...

--Uncover their personal values and purpose, leading to intentional community engagement.
--Connect with experienced community leaders to benefit from the mentors' wisdom and networks.
--Meet in small groups to build relationships and support momentum toward community engagement goals.

Learn more at the Info Session on October 22! RSVP members.leaddsm.org/events.

10/14/2026

✨ Magic happens when purpose meets service!

Lead DSM's Community Connect program helps participants use their purpose and passion to improve their lives and our community. The next cohort starts in January and applications are being accepted now. Learn more on October 22nd! RSVP at members.leaddsm.org/events.

10/13/2026

VIP alert! 📣 Thanks to our friends at Drake University, Lead DSM alums get VIP seating at the next Bucksbaum Lectureship in Business on October 21. Hear from top AI experts, Karen Hao and Nicholas Thompson, as they discuss the topic of AI and its impact on our world. Reserve your up-close seat at members.leaddsm.org/events.

10/12/2026

📣 It's not too late! Grab a seat for the workshop tomorrow at 9 a.m.

Our brains are wired for speed. The Looking Inward: How Self-Awareness Shapes Decisions workshop will help leaders slow the tape down, building habits that support more thoughtful, inclusive leadership.

Discounted rates for Lead DSM member alums, nonprofits, and groups. Bring your team! Register at members.leaddsm.org/events.

10/08/2026

Bravo! 👏 Lead DSM alums got a standing ovation worthy tour of the Des Moines Civic Center as part of a recent Alumni Exclusive event. It takes an army of people to bring performances to life and we saw how the magic happens. A round of applause for the real stars of the show at Des Moines Performing Arts - DMPA, Heidi Watkins, COO; Janet Albanese, Director of Production & Building Services; and Marnie Strate, Director of Guest Services for making the tour an unforgettable experience.

Register at members.leaddsm.org/events for the next Alumni Exclusive where we will go behind the scenes at Amazon!

10/07/2026

How does clean water get to our faucets? The Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute class learned this and so much more on their recent Des Moines Water Works tour. Thank you to Amy Kahler, CEO, for taking us behind the scenes!

10/07/2026

ICYMI Congrats to Gina Vitiritto (GDMLI '11) for being honored as Dentons Human Resources Professional of the Year by the Des Moines Business Record!

The Business Record has named Gina Vitiritto, vice president of human resources at Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, the 2026 Dentons Human Resources Professional of the Year.

Read the story at the link below.