Local Leaders Graduate from Premier Statewide Program
June 27, 2025 | Download PDF
Forty Iowa leaders have completed their journey as part of Leadership Iowa 2024-2025, Iowa’s premier issues-awareness program offered by the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Foundation. A formal graduation ceremony sponsored by Kuder Navigator, took place on June 12 during the 2025 ABI Taking Care of Business Conference in Council Bluffs.
Each year, 40 Iowans representing a wide range of industries, professions, communities and more are selected to embark on this impactful, statewide leadership experience. The program exists to educate and inspire current leaders while cultivating a strong network of engaged Iowans committed to shaping a better future for the state. Since its launch in 1982, nearly 1,500 individuals have participated in Leadership Iowa.
“Congratulations to the remarkable individuals graduating from the 43rd Leadership Iowa class,” said Jessi McQuerrey, ABI Foundation director of programs. “This program brings together a diverse group of professionals from across the state to explore Iowa’s greatest strengths and most pressing challenges, all while fostering connections and inspiring action. These leaders truly demonstrate what’s possible when Iowans unite to learn, lead, and drive positive change. We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the many individuals who make this meaningful experience possible.”
Beginning last October, the Leadership Iowa class traveled to the following Iowa communities for a series of two-day monthly sessions: Algona (opening retreat), Clarinda & Shenandoah (Agriculture & Renewable Resources), Ottumwa (Economic Development & Workforce), Des Moines (Government), Clinton (Manufacturing), Sioux Center (Education), and Cedar Rapids (Public Safety & Security/Community Preparedness & Response). Each session provided participants with a first-hand look at essential topics as they relate to Iowa and our communities. Sessions included discussions with subject-matter experts, interactive experiences, industry tours and more.
Presenting sponsors of this year’s program included Chevron and EMC Insurance. Additional annual sponsors included: Central Iowa Power Cooperative, Community State Bank, Emerson, Grinnell Mutual, the Iowa Soybean Association, the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, MidAmerican Energy Company, Musco Lighting and Pella Corporation.
More information about Leadership Iowa, including a list of 2024-25 participants and photos/videos from this year’s program, is available online at www.LeadershipIowa.com. To request individual photos of community representatives, please email Kelsey O’Connor.