Abena Sankofa Imhotep
CEO
Sankofa Literary & Empowerment Group
Abena Sankofa Imhotep is an award-winning author, scholar, and activist whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and advocates for a just world.
As the CEO of Sankofa Literary & Empowerment Group, Abena’s mission is two-fold: to create spaces for lifelong learning that center the literature and scholarship of Black authors and to work toward a world where all children love to read.
Leading conversations on human rights, racial equity, and organizational awareness for various institutions, Abena has presented human rights papers on social impact & responsibility and strategies for achieving racial justice at the Nelson Institute Global Citizen Forum, the Iowa Human Rights Research Conference, and University of Notre Dame Kroc Institute.
A dynamic orator who speaks with eloquence and clarity, Abena was selected to be the final commencement speaker at the historic Iowa Wesleyan University, led interdisciplinary think-tank sessions of high-level intellectuals from across the country, and graced the TEDx stage. She has received numerous honors including the American Red Cross Diversity Equity & Inclusion Award, African American Leadership Academy Fellowship, NAACP Accomplished Entrepreneur Award, Top Ten Iowa Book of the Year, and the prestigious Iowa Author Award.
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CEO
Sankofa Literary & Empowerment Group
Bruce Teague
Mayor
City of Iowa City
Bruce Teague is Mayor for the City of Iowa City. He was elected to the city council on Oct. 2, 2018. January 2020, he was appointed to a 2-year term as mayor. He’s now serving his 3rd, two-year term as mayor, from 2024-2026. He moved to Iowa City from Chicago when he was 17 years old and graduated from West High. He graduated in 2002 from Kirkwood Community College with an associate degree in applied science in Nursing. Mayor Teague is also a 2001 graduate of The University of Iowa, where he holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Certificate of Aging Studies. For the past 20 years, he’s owned Caring Hands & More LLC, which serves individuals of all ages - with a specialty in elder care, disability care and end-of-life care.
Mayor Teague has been consistently active in the community with his commitment to serving humankind and has been involved with agencies focused on aging and disability services, LGBTQ+ issues, and small business support. In what little free time he has, Mayor Teague enjoys singing, playing volleyball, boating, camping, spending time with his friends, family and husband Colton and dogs Maggie and Teddy.
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Mayor
City of Iowa City
Joy Briscoe
Career Readiness Ecosystem Builder
Top RANK/SHIPHT
serves at the intersection of education, equity and access. She currently is the Executive Director of ONE Cedar Valley (OCV), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to remove barriers. OCV utilizes a holistic, people-centered approach at the heart of programming to assist Blacks, communities of color, youth, the underemployed and the unemployed to achieve family sustaining incomes, reduce the wealth gap and increase regional economic development. She spearheaded the development of “The Hub”, a digital platform and consortium to connect service providers and facilitate a “no wrong door for support” point of entry. Additionally, she leads the Advancing Equity initiative, a collaborative effort with the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, the Black Hawk County Health Department and other key workforce service providers to develop strategies that support expanding employment opportunities for migrants and limited English speakers, build a talent hub, provide training to partnering employers and access to training for community members.
Joy launched the first apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship in manufacturing program for the Waterloo Schools in collaboration with John Deere and the Waterloo Career Center. This public/private partnership resulted in the SMART Iowa (Scaling Manufacturing and Renewables Training in Iowa) program at Hawkeye Community College receiving 5 million in funding from the Department of Labor. Smart Iowa is expected to lead the transition of Iowa manufacturing companies into EV and clean energy. During this time she also relaunched the Teach Waterloo “grow your own” program to increase the number of diverse educators in the Waterloo School district.
https://www.onecedarvalley.com/
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Career Readiness Ecosystem Builder
Top RANK/SHIPHT
Randy A. Moore
President
Iowa American Water
Randy A. Moore is president of Iowa American Water, the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water and wastewater services to approximately 225,000 people. In this role, he reinforces and strengthens customer, regulatory and local government relationships, drives operational and financial results, and is the principal external contact for American Water in Iowa.
For over four decades, Mr. Moore has used his diverse water utility experience to serve in a variety of leadership roles at American Water operations in Indiana, Ohio, and Iowa. His career began in 1979 as a treatment plant operator in Indiana American Water's Wabash Valley District. He remained at Indiana American Water until 2005, serving in operational management positions of increasing responsibility in the Wabash Valley District, Muncie District and the Northwest Operations headquartered in Gary.
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President
Iowa American Water
Elinor A. Levin
State Representative
Iowa City State Representative
Elinor is an educator, a communicator, and a dedicated community servant. She has worked in public schools and as a writing tutor, and knows that our future depends on giving every Iowan chances to try things, to get excited, and to take risks and feel supported by their communities.
https://www.levinforiowa.com/
About Elinor A. Levin
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State Representative
Iowa City State Representative
Stefanie Bowers
Equity Director
City of Iowa City
Stefanie Bowers is the Human Rights Coordinator and Equity Director for the City of Iowa City and Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Iowa Center for Human Rights. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Iowa, a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Iowa College of Law, and a member of the Iowa City – Cedar Rapids Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In her free time, Stefanie provides leadership by serving on community boards, including the Johnson County United Nations Association Board of Directors and the Iowa Legal Aid, Iowa City Regional Advisory Council.
https://uichr.uiowa.edu/people/stefanie-bowers
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Equity Director
City of Iowa City
Susan Martin
Chief Executive Officer
Optimae Life
Susan Martin, LISW is an energetic and engaging presenter who draws on her 30 years of experience as a Mental Health Therapist, Administrator and CEO to educate and inspire change. Ms. Martin went to Indianola High School, graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a BSW and the University of Iowa with an MSW. She has served her community in multiple settings including the Veterans Administration, Hospitals, Home Health organizations and Outpatient Mental Health Clinics. Ms. Martin has worked for Optimae LifeServices for 26 years and currently is the Chief Executive Officer for Optimae LifeServices where she has led and supported large scale growth and change. Susan is a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities and has influenced state legislation and policy to increase services and supports available to those in need. She has traveled the Mid-west and nationally to educate and inspire others with warmth, good humor and positive examples through seminars and a variety of speaking engagements.
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Chief Executive Officer
Optimae Life
Sarah Van Cleve
Somatic Wellness Practitioner
Soul House Wellness
Sarah Van Cleve is a somatic wellness practitioner, death doula, activist and owner of Soul House Wellness, based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
As a practitioner, she is passionate about helping students find restoration, stillness and safety in ones’ body, and navigating release through the practices of yoga and sound healing. Sarah’s commitment to social justice is an integral part of her identity.
In her role in activism, Sarah actively supports causes related to equality, human rights and community empowerment. Monthly, she facilitates Breathing Room Yoga’s “Yoga for People of Color,” a donation- based yoga class, aimed at building community and mindfulness in the black and brown community. Through the thought-provoking podcast ‘Othered,’ Sarah works to create a platform dedicated to celebrating the stories and experiences of those who have often been overlooked or misunderstood in society. The podcast’s mission is to amplify local voices and center the narratives of marginalized communities.
As a death doula, Sarah is passionate about advocating for the necessity of end-of-life preparedness. Through education and compassionate end-of-life support, she empowers individuals to approach the experiences of life and death with knowledge, curiosity and love.
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Somatic Wellness Practitioner
Soul House Wellness
Redmond Jones
Iowa City Deputy city manager
City of Iowa City
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Iowa City Deputy city manager
City of Iowa City
Kenia Calderon Ceron
VP Bilingual Business Development Director
GreenState
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VP Bilingual Business Development Director
GreenState
Simeon Talley
Founding Partner
Community Development Strategies
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Founding Partner
Community Development Strategies
Angela Weekley, CDE
Community Inclusion Manager
Veridian Credit Union
Angela is a graduate of Wartburg College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. She went on to earn a master’s degree in post-secondary education from the University of Northern Iowa. She has been employed at Veridian Credit Union 13 years as the Manager of Community Inclusion.
In her free time, Angela serves a variety of other community organizations, such as Salvation Army, Waterloo Community Development, Greater Des Moines Partnership-Diversity/Inclusion Committee, Lutheran Services of Iowa, Girl Scouts and Inclusive ICR.
Angela is a champion of diversity, equity and inclusion. She has always been passionate about serving others. This passion is currently expressed through her position as the Manager of Community Inclusion at Veridian Credit Union where she has been for 13 years. In addition to her passion being present through her career, in her free time, Angela works with a variety of other community organizations where she is able to serve as well. The Salvation Army, Waterloo Community Development, Greater Des Moines Partnership-
Diversity/Inclusion Committee, Lutheran Services of Iowa, Girl Scouts and Inclusive ICR have all had the opportunity to experience Angela’s willingness to be a helping hand in the community and this list has, and will continue to, grow over time.
As a proud Waterloo native, it is no surprise that Angela went on to graduate from nearby Wartburg College where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education and then on to the University of Northern Iowa where she earned a Master’s Degree in Post-Secondary Education.
About Angela Weekley, CDE
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Community Inclusion Manager
Veridian Credit Union
Karmen Wilhelm
CMO
Van Meter
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CMO
Van Meter
Nick AbouAssaly
Mayor
City of Marion
Nick AbouAssaly was born in Beirut and immigrated to the U.S. in 1975. He graduated from Linn-Mar High School and earned degrees in finance and law from the University of Iowa.
As many Iowans do, he moved out of state for his career but was eventually drawn back to eastern Iowa by the desire to be near his family and the opportunity to live in a community where he could make a greater impact.
He returned to the area in 1995 and has been involved in all aspects of community development and leadership in the region, serving on numerous boards, commissions and steering committees and always promoting a bigger vision and a higher standard of excellence.
Nick served on the Marion City Council for 2 ½ years before his election to the office of Mayor in November 2015. He began his second term in January 2020 and his third term in January of this year for the 13 th largest city in the state.
Mayor Nick is a 31-year attorney and a partner with Simmons Perrine Moyer Bergman, Iowa’s third largest law firm, where he heads the real estate law department. He is included on the Best Lawyers in America® and Great Plains Super Lawyers lists and was the Best Lawyers – Lawyer of the Year for real estate law in Cedar Rapids in 2020 and 2021.
He was an inaugural recipient of the Corridor Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 award and has been on the Journal’s list of most influential people in the Corridor for seven consecutive years, topping the list in 2018 and again in 2020. In 2019 he received the National Council on Youth Leadership’s Visionary Youth Leadership Award.
Most recently, he was recognized by the Eastern Iowa chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for securing more than $1 million for the Marion Public Library and the Central Plaza capital campaigns and was named the inaugural Mayor of the Year by the Iowa Mayors Association, presiding over Community Playmaker’s reigning Community of the Year.
He is an agent of positive change and a champion for progress in Marion and the region.
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Mayor
City of Marion
Anne (Harris) Carter
Health Equity Program Manager
Linn County Public Health Department
Anne Harris Carter joined Linn County Public Health in 2022 to serve in a newly created role, Health Equity Program Manager, and to launch the Office of Health Equity. The Office of Health Equity seeks to remove barriers and create solutions, by bringing together partner organizations and people who face greater health risks, to help make Linn County a place of good health and a place of belonging. Anne has more than twenty-five years of experience in corporate leadership in the retail, banking, and energy sectors. In 2012, Anne returned to her Iowa hometown, Cedar Rapids, and joined Alliant Energy. While there, she held Director roles in
Diversity and Inclusion, Energy Efficiency, and Recruitment. Anne conceived and created diversity strategy roles at two corporations, including the former May Department Stores. Prior to serving as Vice President of Diversity at May’s corporate headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, she held positions in merchandising, stores, and operations, including Vice President of Merchandise Information Systems for the Kaufmann’s operating division, headquartered in
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Yale, Anne is dedicated to community service. She is currently a board member for Advocates for Social Justice and UnityPoint Health~St. Luke’s.
Anne also serves on the Faith and Medicine Task Force for MedQuarter, the Cedar
Rapids Community School District Safety Advisory Council, the GVI (Group Violence Intervention) Governance Committee, and is a Make It OK Ambassador for the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative. Anne plays violin, swims with a masters team, and is exceedingly grateful for her
three adult children and two granddaughters.
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Health Equity Program Manager
Linn County Public Health Department
Dr. Kahlil Andrews
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Andrews Plastic Surgery
About Dr. Kahlil Andrews
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Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Andrews Plastic Surgery
Carla Anderson
Chair
Dubuque Human Rights Commisson
Carla has dedicated her adult to championing the rights and well-being of underserved communities. As the Chair of the Human Rights Committee and the President of the Habitat for Humanity board in Dubuque, Iowa, Carla's impact on the community has been nothing short of profound.
Carla's commitment to social justice extends beyond these roles. She is also the co-founder of the BIPOC Collective and co-editor of the BIPOC News of the Tri-State, platforms that aim to amplify the voices and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in the region. Her tireless efforts in these endeavors have been instrumental in raising awareness about the unique challenges and triumphs faced by these communities.
In her professional capacity, Carla serves as a Project Manager and Strategic Planner for Tri-Phoenix Group, LLC. This role allows her to bring her strategic acumen to the business world, leveraging her skills to make a significant impact in her field.
In recognition of her unwavering commitment to community service and advocacy, Carla was honored as the 2023 recipient of the 365ink IMPACT award. This prestigious award underscores the depth of her dedication and the tangible positive outcomes she has achieved.
One of Carla's core missions is the fight for fair and affordable housing. She firmly believes that housing is a fundamental human right and has worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone has access to safe and dignified shelter. Her advocacy extends to the broader concept of equity, where she consistently strives to make sure that equitable practices are genuinely accessible and beneficial to all, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.
Carla's passion, dedication, and advocacy have not only made a significant impact in her community but also serves as an inspiration to others who share her vision of a more just and inclusive society. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of activism and community engagement.
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Chair
Dubuque Human Rights Commisson
Sarika Bhakta
Owner
Nikeya Diversity
About Sarika Bhakta
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Owner
Nikeya Diversity
Aminata Taylor
Owner-
Taylor CPAS and Advisors
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Owner-
Taylor CPAS and Advisors
Javier Ducker
Multimedia Specialist
de Novo Marketing
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Multimedia Specialist
de Novo Marketing
Quinn Pettifer
Manager of Brand initiatives
Gazette
Quinn Pettifer is the Manager of Brand Initiatives and Editorial Board Member for The Gazette, an ESOP owned media-company that has served Eastern Iowa since 1883.
Development and implementation of brand strategy has been a major part of Quinn’s professional role for years, working on numerous community and regional brand initiatives and events including Festival of Trees, the statewide conference Iowa Ideas and the philanthropic program The Gazette Gives Back
When asked what lights her fire, Quinn will always respond with the ability to help others. She loves to apply her enthusiasm and knowledge of the region to those that are looking for things to do, ways to get involved, and resources that will help them live their best life.
Quinn also serves as the company’s community liaison in council and board capacity, including Inclusive ICR, Horizons, United Way’s Workplace Learning Council, Foundation 2, Youth Leadership for Five Seasons, Envision East Central Iowa Workplace Pillar and more.
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Manager of Brand initiatives
Gazette
Kaitlin Byers
Capital Access Manager (CAM)
Kiva Iowa
Kaitlin serves as the Capital Access Manager (CAM) for Kiva Iowa, a community-backed loan program for small business owners to gain access to early capital at zero interest. Kiva uses crowdfunded micro-loans as a force for good, creating a space where people can have one-to-one impact, and together, expand financial access for all. Here in Iowa, Kaitlin oversees the borrower pipeline statewide (and in the Quad Cities), cultivates a community of stakeholders and business support resources, and works with business owners as they apply, fundraise and repay their Kiva loan.
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Capital Access Manager (CAM)
Kiva Iowa
Faith Robinson
Owner
4K Photography
About Faith Robinson
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Owner
4K Photography
Teresa Jensen
Business Banking Officer
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust
Teresa Jensen is a seasoned banking professional with 31 years of experience and currently serves as a Business Banking Officer at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust. Known for being a self-proclaimed "numbers nerd," she finds great joy in helping businesses navigate their financial needs. Whether it's securing loans, providing resources, or crafting a roadmap for success, Teresa is passionate about making a positive impact.
Beyond numbers, Teresa excels at connecting people, fostering relationships that benefit both personal and professional growth. She takes immense pride in her family, considering her adult children and grandchildren her greatest achievements.
When not in the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling and exploring to gain perspective and appreciate the broader meaning of life.
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Business Banking Officer
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust
Marcus Cooper
President Board of Directors
Black Professionals of Iowa
About Marcus Cooper
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President Board of Directors
Black Professionals of Iowa
Geneva Williams-Smith
Assistant District Attorney
Tama County
Geneva Williams-Smith, a proud native of St. Louis, Missouri, found her second home in Iowa in 1998. Currently serving as the Assistant Tama County Attorney, Geneva's legal journey is deeply rooted in a commitment to justice and community empowerment.
Shaped by her parents' experiences of growing up in the Jim Crow south, their stories instilled in her a deep-seated commitment to advocating for equity and inclusivity in every facet of her life. Geneva's upbringing instilled in her a profound appreciation for the transformative power of education and opportunity. This belief has been a driving force throughout her career, particularly during her nearly decade-long tenure in private practice, where she passionately advocated for underserved communities across Eastern Iowa.
A graduate of Coe College, with a major in Political Science and minor in Economics, Geneva continued her academic pursuits at Drake University Law School, earning her Juris Doctorate in 2006. Her dedication and excellence in advocacy were recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the high honor of being named the 2006 Supreme Court Day - Rodney L. Hudson Appellate Advocacy Award winner.
Geneva firmly believes in the importance of providing access to quality education and opportunities for students from all walks of life. She is committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background, has the chance to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Geneva is a devoted spouse and a proud parent to five children. In her leisure time, she finds solace in the outdoors, reading, and cherishes moments with her loved ones.
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Assistant District Attorney
Tama County
Okpara Rice
Executive Director
Tanager Place of Cedar Rapids
Okpara Rice joined Tanager Place of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as executive
director in July 2013, and assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer July
2015. Okpara is the first African American to hold executive office at
Tanager Place in its more than 140 year history. He brings leadership
experience to Tanager from his work at the Jewish Child Care Association in
Pleasantville, New York, the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago,
the Youth Campus in Park Ridge, Ill and Starr Columbus in Columbus,
Ohio.
Okpara is active in the field and his community and currently serves on a
wide number of boards and advisory committees locally, regionally,
nationally and internationally. The issues that fuel his passion and
involvement include juvenile justice, access to services, health equity, education and leadership
development. Most recently he served on Governor Kim Reynolds’ Children’s System State
Board, formed to innovatively create solutions for youth in Iowa. Okpara also led the more than
60-year old Association of Children’s Residential Centers as its first African American Board
President. Okpara was named a 2020 History Maker by the African American Museum of Iowa.
He serves as a Board of Directors member for Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust, as well as a Trustee
of Coe College.
Okpara has presented internationally in Europe and Canada on issues that affect children. He
holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois, and a
Master of Social Work from Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, where he was named a
Distinguished Alumnus of the Brown School in 2018. He also holds an Executive Management
certification from Georgetown University, Washington DC, and an Executive Scholar Certificate
from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.
Okpara lives in Marion, Iowa with his wife Julie and sons Malcolm and Dylan.
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Executive Director
Tanager Place of Cedar Rapids
Lorenda Lewis-Holston
Assistant Athletics Director, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
University of Iowa
Lorenda joined the Hawkeyes family in July 2022 as the Assistant Athletics Director for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In this role she serves to support and advocate for the holistic development of student-athletes and enhance the overall Hawkeye experience for students and staff. Holston joins the Iowa staff from Purdue University, where she served as Student-Athlete Development Associate. She previously served as the Academic Support Coordinator for Men's Football at Georgia Tech. While completing her master's degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education, she served the Colorado State University's Athletic department as the Graduate Assistant for Diversity & Inclusion creating programs that foster community, fellowship, and spark courageous conversations. Holston was a track & field student-athlete at Colorado State University. She moved into support services upon graduation, initially as a Student-Athlete Support Services intern. While a student-athlete, Holston earned All-America honors and broke the school record and Mountain West Conference record in the 60-meter hurdles, holding both records at 8.06.
About Lorenda Lewis-Holston
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Assistant Athletics Director, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
University of Iowa
Dennis Jordan
Director of Customer, Community and Economic Development
Alliant Energy
Dennis Jordan is Director of Customer, Community and Economic Development for Alliant Energy. Dennis leads the strategy and team for economic and community development activities as well as key account managers within the Iowa service territory which includes 83 of
Iowa’s 99 counties.
Most recently, Dennis was Senior Business Development Manager for M. A. Mortenson Company (Mortenson) headquartered in Minneapolis with an office in Coralville.
Previously, Dennis spent fourteen years at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, formerly Priority One as Vice President Economic Development/Economic Development Strategist. Dennis was responsible for leading the organizations efforts in the economic development including marketing to target industry companies throughout the United States, Canada and Europe as well as managing corporate headquarter relationships of existing companies.
Dennis is a graduate of Kirkwood Community College, has a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Iowa. Dennis currently serves as Adjunct Lecturer for the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) at the University of Iowa where he teaches Entrepreneurial Marketing and serves
as a faculty mentor for JPEC Business Consulting.
Dennis has many current volunteer leadership roles including Deputy at the Iowa Business Council, Member of Large Investor & Economic Development Councils at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance; Campaign Cabinet for the United Way of East Central Iowa; Executive
Board Member and Chair of the Development Committee for the Kirkwood Foundation; member of UNI Alumni Association Board of Managers; Board Member of the Entrepreneurial Development Center & Board of Trustee member for Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa. He is also Assistant District Governor and District Membership Chair for Rotary District 5970 and
Board Member for Rotary Action Group for Clubfoot. Finally, Dennis is a member of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry and Professional Developers of Iowa.
Dennis is married to Angela Jordan and they have four grown children
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Director of Customer, Community and Economic Development
Alliant Energy
Frederick Newell
Executive Director
Dream City
Frederick Newell, originally from Chicago and a University of Iowa alumnus, is the founder and driving force behind Dream City, a dynamic nonprofit organization in Iowa City. Since its inception in 2012, Dream City has expanded from addressing father absence to offering comprehensive family services and community development programs. Frederick also contributes as the Inclusion & Outreach Coordinator for the Iowa City Community School District, focusing on equitable education and supporting marginalized communities. His holistic advocacy is centered on family fortification, individual transformation, and hope rejuvenation. Additionally, Frederick serves as the Lead Pastor at Purpose Place, enriching his community leadership with spiritual guidance. His multifaceted role extends to coaching basketball, where he instills teamwork and resilience in young athletes. An exceptional communicator and leader, Frederick is committed to systemic change and empowering individuals and communities for sustainable impact.
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Executive Director
Dream City
Kimberline (Kim) Jones
Business & Finance Manager
MCDC
Kimberline (Kim) Jones is a lifelong learner with a passion for groups and people. Kim has a bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Mississippi and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Drake University. Kim has a strong background in providing financial services to neighborhoods, developers, and communities, with affordable housing and economic development opportunities. She currently works as the Business and Finance Manager for a school and is an independent consultant for Small Businesses.
Kim has always been actively involved in the community as a board member for Community & Family Resources, The Iowa Children's Museum, the State of Iowa Workforce Development, Iowa Microenterprise Board, and a host of financial services and financial education committees.
About Kimberline (Kim) Jones
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Business & Finance Manager
MCDC
Dr. Priscilla Culp
Educational Consultant & Diversity and Equity Coach
Iowa City Community School Distr
Dr. Priscilla Culp, an educational consultant and Diversity and Equity Coach in the Iowa City
Community School District, has passionately dedicated her practice in the education
profession for over twenty years, diligently works with teachers and administrators to
effectively deliver equitable culturally relevant pedagogical strategies to all students, while
also helping to prepare students with tools for successfully competing within a global society
are provided. Priscilla’s educational background includes teaching fourth grade, eighth
grade, an elementary reading specialist, and an elementary administrator.
She earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education, with a K-8 reading
endorsement. Priscilla returned to graduate school at the University of Northern Iowa to
obtain a Master of Arts degree in educational psychology, with an emphasis in professional
development, an Advanced Studies Certificate (ASC) as a PK-12 Administrator/PK-12
Supervisor of Special Education, and finally earned her Doctor of Education (Ed. D) degree in
educational leadership. Dr. Culp is a member of the National Association of Black School
Educators (NABSE), a founding member and committee chair of the Iowa affiliate NABSE
chapter, a Gold Star award recipient from the McElroy Foundation, and serves as a director
on the boards at Nolte Dance Academy and the Wright House of Fashion.
A proud native of Waterloo, IA, Priscilla is a sincere, vehement, social justice, Gold Star
educator, who stems from a family who placed a heavy emphasis on education. She knew
from the young, tender age of six years old she would become a phenomenal educator. Dr.
Culp intentionally engages her audiences, whether she’s speaking at a conference or
delivering professional development to educators, assuring the attendees depart with more
knowledge than they came with. In her free time, Priscilla enjoys reading, hanging with
family and friends, listening to music, watching sports, mentoring youth, shopping, and
traveling.
About Dr. Priscilla Culp
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Educational Consultant & Diversity and Equity Coach
Iowa City Community School Distr
Taylor Petersen
Senior Diversity Equity and Inclusion Consultant
EMC Insurance
Taylor Petersen is an avid believer in building diverse communities through equitable actions. He spends his time working with organizations to shift their mindset and strategy to align with sustainable business activities. Taylor is currently a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant at EMC Insurance and sits on the Young Professional Connections Board as the Director of Communications. He focuses his attention on connecting people to resources through accessible communication and purpose-based marketing strategies.
Taylor is an alumnus of the University of Northern Iowa and has been involved in many different community and national programs such as the Tippie College of Business DEI Committee, DSM4Equity, NASA, Out 4 Undergrad, and the Homeward Board for Des Moines.
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Senior Diversity Equity and Inclusion Consultant
EMC Insurance
Kimberly Fitten
Principal
Iowa City Community School Distr
Kimberly Fitten is a charismatic powerhouse who believes everyone has the ability to stretch beyond areas of discomfort, doubt, and fear to manifest the caliber of life they deserve. She is a successful ecommerce entrepreneur, published author, motivational speaker, owner of ReSet Consulting LLC, motivational events specialist, and middle school principal. She has an incredible way of helping others identify their passions, purpose, and deliver their messages of hope using powerful expository formats.
Podcast: Manifesting 101
Publications:
The Science of Greatness: Taking the Guesswork out of Purpose (2017).
Decree (2018).
The Bible of Abundance (2020).
10 Minute Gratitude Journal (2024)
About Kimberly Fitten
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Principal
Iowa City Community School Distr
Holly Stevenson
Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
Optimae LifeServices, Inc
Dr. Holly Stevenson was awarded her Ph.D. in Philosophy from The University of Iowa in 2021, before which she attended The University of Glasgow and received her MA Honors in Philosophy. Whilst a Hawkeye, she also obtained a graduate certificate in gender, women and sexuality studies, a graduate certificate in online teaching and a graduate certificate in college teaching. She was also presented with the University of Iowa’s Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award in 2017. She currently serves as the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging for Optimae LifeServices, a company aligned with her personal mission to ensure everyone feels valued and able to thrive. In a volunteer capacity, Dr. Stevenson serves on the advisory board for Inclusive Iowa City – Cedar Rapids and the executive board for Lavender Legal. She is a published author on topics including baseline comparisons, intersectionality and the notion of benefits. Dr. Stevenson has been invited to speak at numerous institutions across North America, including The University of Michigan, The University of Utah and The University of British Colombia. Originally from Scotland, Dr. Stevenson is passionate about facilitating crucial conversations and being a voice for the silenced.
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Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
Optimae LifeServices, Inc
Corey Dion Lewis
Founder
The Healthy Project
Corey Dion Lewis, a Clinical Health Coach at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa since 2017, is a committed advocate for health equity and education. With over 12 years of experience, he specializes in managing chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes hypertension, and obesity. Corey is not only a healthcare professional but also the founder of The Healthy Project, a public health media initiative focusing on health equity and Social
Determinants of Health (SDoH).
Under his leadership, The Healthy Project has achieved remarkable success, being ranked in the top 200 in the US medicine category, #2 in the top 100 in the Health Policy category, and #3 in the global health category. This venture includes The Healthy Project Podcast, the Coffee Can't Fix Everything show, and the My City My Health conference series, all contributing to a
more inclusive healthcare future. His empathetic and community-oriented leadership style is an inspiration for those looking to make a positive impact. Corey's educational background includes a degree in Health and Human Physiology from the University of Iowa, along with specialized training in the science of weight loss and behavior change from Johns Hopkins University.
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Founder
The Healthy Project
Doug Neumann
Executive Director
Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
Doug Neumann is in his 19th year at the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, where he has served as Communications Director, Downtown Director, Executive Vice President and now Executive Director.
The Economic Alliance is a non-profit membership organization for 1,200 area
employers with a mission to drive economic, workforce and population growth
strategies, and to help businesses succeed.
Doug’s work in the Cedar Rapids area began more 30 years ago as a newspaper reporter and editor at The Gazette. He also has served on staff for the Mayor and City Council of the City of Cedar Rapids. His career highlights include numerous community development, public policy, communications and organizational initiatives that have helped shape the region.
Doug has led as board chairman the statewide Iowa Chamber Alliance, the Arc
of East Central Iowa and Brucemore, Iowa’s only National Trust Historic Site. He currently serves on the Iowa Ideas Executive Advisory Council, the Iowa
Advisory Committee of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, and the Iowa
Chapter of the Common Sense Institute.
Among his past civic and volunteer activities, he has served on the board of
directors for the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, the Linn County Housing Fund Board, the Cedar Rapids Kernels Foundation and the NewBo City Market.
Doug, a native of Random Lake, Wisconsin, graduated with a degree in
Journalism from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University in
Evanston, Illinois. His wife, Jen, owns and leads deNovo Marketing in Cedar
Rapids, and they have two adult daughters, Grace and Anna.
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Executive Director
Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
Dr. Brenton Hicks
Doctor
Revive Family Chiropractic
About Dr. Brenton Hicks
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Doctor
Revive Family Chiropractic
Talia Meidlinger
Executive Director
UAY (United Action for Youth)
Talia Meidlinger is the Executive Director at United Action for Youth, a non-profit based in Iowa City. She built her career working with at-risk youth and building trusting relationships with community providers to improve outcomes for youth who are most vulnerable. She emphasizes the importance of knowledge about trauma, brain development, and adolescence as the best avenue for achieving positive outcomes in working with young people. Above all, relationships come first for engaging young people and their caregivers as well as community partners and other local resources.
About Talia Meidlinger
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Executive Director
UAY (United Action for Youth)
Lisa Shileny
President and Chief Operating Officer
Hills Bank & Trust
Lisa Shileny is the President and Chief Operating Officer at Hills Bank and Trust Company. She joined Hills Bank in 2005 and worked as General Counsel and Director of Operations before being promoted to President and Chief Operating Officer in 2022.
Lisa began her career in the private practice of law after receiving her Bachelor’s Degree from Central College in Pella, Iowa, and her law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law. She is a 2013 graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s Graduate School of Banking and a 2023 graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business.
Lisa serves as the past Chairperson for the Board of Directors of Goodwill of the Heartland and also serves on the Transition Executive Board for the Greater Iowa City organization.
About Lisa Shileny
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President and Chief Operating Officer
Hills Bank & Trust
Fred Ebong
Creative Director
FE Studios
red is the innovative founder and creative director of FE Studios, a video advertising agency specializing in commercial and corporate-style videos. Hailing from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Fred has made Iowa his home since 2008. His early experiences at a Nigerian boarding school sparked a deep fascination with human interaction, a theme that permeates his work today.
In his youth, Fred was captivated by the compelling wartime and life stories narrated by his father when he came home for school break from boarding school. These tales not only highlighted survival and simpler joys but also ignited Fred’s passion for storytelling. Influenced by his father's knack for creating vivid narratives, Fred was driven to explore storytelling through a different lens—video.
Fred's journey from a hobbyist to a professional visual artist was fueled by his desire to encapsulate human emotions and stories through the powerful medium of video. At FE Studios, he leads a talented team in producing a diverse range of projects, from impactful commercials to insightful documentaries. His portfolio includes notable works such as an AD for Godday, an Iowa PBS documentary, and collaborations with nonprofit organizations like Red Cross and Pi515 in Des Moines, Iowa. Fred's dedication to capturing the essence of human experience makes him a sought-after partner for both companies and individuals looking to tell their unique stories visually.
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Creative Director
FE Studios
Dr. Mary Charlton
Professor
University of Iowa College of Public Health and Director of the Iowa Cancer Registry
Dr. Charlton is a Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Iowa College of Public Health and Director of the Iowa Cancer Registry. She is also the President of the Iowa Cancer Consortium and Co-Leader of the Cancer Epidemiology and Population Science Program at the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research focuses on differences in access and quality of cancer care between rural and urban populations related to the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer.
About Dr. Mary Charlton
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Professor
University of Iowa College of Public Health and Director of the Iowa Cancer Registry
Lindsay (Cannaday) Rone
Vice President and Business Development Director
GreenState Credit Union
Lindsay (Cannaday) Rone is the Vice President and Business Development Director at GreenState Credit Union, with over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. Driven by passion, she takes pride in developing and deploying the best products
and services to marginalized communities. As the Business Development Director, her goals include building relationships with a wide cross-section of industry and community leaders to ultimately close the racial wealth equity gap across her credit union’s
field of membership.
Lindsay was honored as a 2023 recipient of the Des Moines Business Record's Forty Under 40 recognition. She serves on Ladylike DSM’s strategic planning committee, where she helps to activate micro-grants for Black women-owned businesses. Lindsay has dedicated
countless hours to developing female athletes by coaching track and cheerleading at Des Moines Roosevelt High School.
She also founded the United LEAGUE during her time at United Way of Central Iowa. The United LEAGUE is a network of motivated donors who identify as Black or as allies, eager to address disparities in economic opportunity through volunteerism and advocacy.
Through her membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Lindsay continues to uphold the vision of service to all mankind.
About Lindsay (Cannaday) Rone
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Vice President and Business Development Director
GreenState Credit Union
Stefanie Munsterman
Executive Director
Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission
Stefanie Munsterman (she/her) serves as Executive Director of the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission where she leads the Commission’s strategic vision and operations. Additionally, she serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Master of Business Administration and a Master of Strategic Leadership programs at Mount Mercy University.
Stefanie is dedicated to advancing equity and human rights, believing strongly in our collective responsibility to foster a community of inclusion and belonging. She is actively involved in numerous boards and advisory councils, including the U.S.
Commission on Civil Rights - Iowa Advisory Board; Federal Advocacy Committee on Human Development - National League of Cities; Iowa Public Radio Sounding Board; National Council on Youth, Education, and Families - National League of Cities; East Central Iowa Local Workforce Development Board; ACLU of Iowa; College Community School District - Equity Advisory Council; President of the League of Iowa Civil and Human Rights Agencies; and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance - Innovation Council. Stefanie also volunteers as a Sexual Assault Advocate for Riverview Center.
Her contributions have been recognized with several awards. She was named as a Woman of Influence from the Corridor Business Journal, Woman of the Year Award from the Women’s Equality Coalition of Linn County, Forty Under 40 from the Corridor Business Journal, an Outstanding Service Award from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, the Misericordiae Award from Mount Mercy University, selected for the Louise Noun Award from the ACLU of Iowa, and the Spirit of the ADA Award from Great Plains ADA Center.
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Stefanie holds a Master of Business
Administration and a Master of Strategic as well as a Bachelor of Science in
Psychology.
In her personal time, Stefanie cherishes moments with her two children,
Alexandria (30) and Jules (18) and enjoys being outdoors, reading, music, theater, and spending time with her animals.
About Stefanie Munsterman
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Executive Director
Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission
Joshua Booth
Founder
Diamond Label Films
Joshua Booth is not only the founder of Diamond Label Films in Iowa City but also co-founded Flow Media in Cedar Rapids, showcasing his versatility in media production. His commitment to nurturing talent extends to mentoring startups through the Founders Club at the University of Iowa.
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Founder
Diamond Label Films
Dr. Lindi Roelofse
Director
Black Capital Studies + Projects
Dr. Lindi Roelofse is the Director of the Black Capital Studies + Projects and past Chair of Entrepreneurship at one of Iowa's public regent universities. The action research she and her team are conducting focuses on how underrepresented entrepreneurs and innovators beat the odds have won 21+ national and regional awards and have been at 17+ peer-reviewed international conferences in the past four years. Prior to this work, she was an Economic Development Executive and one of the founding board members of Meswaki Inc., a linchpin in the Meswaki Tribe's economic diversification strategy.
About Dr. Lindi Roelofse
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Director
Black Capital Studies + Projects
Laura Gray
CEO
Restorative Community Partners
Laura Gray is passionate about restorative practices, diversity, equity and inclusion.
She is a product of Chicago Public Schools and has 21 years of experience in education where she has served as teacher, assistant principal, building principal and educational director. Laura is an experienced Gray Space Thinking coach, team-building facilitator, motivational speaker, published author, Restorative Circle Keeper, trainer, educator and consultant.
She has a BA in English Education from Loyola University Chicago and a MA in Educational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago. She has over 500 contact hours leading and training others in restorative circles. Laura currently serves as the Executive Director of Diversity and Cultural Responsiveness for the Iowa City Community School District. She is also the CEO of Restorative Community Partners, LLC, co-founder of Captivate Conferences and R&R Equity Concierges.
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CEO
Restorative Community Partners
Meghann Foster
Mayor
City of Coralville
Mayor Meghann Foster
Meghann Foster currently serves as the Mayor of the City of Coralville, making history as the first woman elected to the role. Meghann’s leadership is characterized by an unwavering commitment to making Coralville a vibrant and welcoming place for all its residents. She is passionate about promoting inclusivity and advocating for policies that address the diverse needs of Coralville's population. In addition to serving as Mayor, Meghann teaches communication courses at the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business. Meghann holds a BA from the University of Iowa and an MA in strategic communication from Washington State University.
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Mayor
City of Coralville
RaQuishia Harrington
Associate Director
Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
RaQuishia Harrington is the Associate Director of Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, where her work with underserved populations and dedication to public service highlight her commitment to social justice and community development. As a former councilwoman and the first elected Black woman to North Liberty’s City Council, RaQuishia has addressed critical issues such as education, employment, and housing disparities, promoting inclusivity and diversity as a leader and advocate.
An Iowa native and graduate of the University of Iowa, RaQuishia has a long history of serving her community. She previously worked as the Program Supervisor for Special and Underserved Populations with the City of Iowa City, and held other roles working diligently to address disproportionality issues and accessibility to resources. Her approach to creating and implementing programs reflects her dedication to meeting community needs and her passion for inspiring change.
RaQuishia is also co-founder of Sankofa Outreach Connection and has served on various boards and committees in her local community. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and learning about different cultures. RaQuishia's drive to help others succeed, was instilled in her from an early age, and continues to guide her efforts in providing opportunities for all.
About RaQuishia Harrington
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Associate Director
Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
Robyn Hepker
Designer
Benson & Hepker Design
Robyn Hepker has been the “Hepker” in Benson & Hepker Design in Iowa City
for over 30 years. She is a graphic designer specializing in branding, data
visualization, and print design. She got her start as a designer when, during the
summer between kindergarten and first-grade, she ripped apart and redesigned
her parents’ only copy of the local weekly newspaper. Not coincidentally, this
also taught her how to develop a thick skin in the face of client feedback. Robyn
has degrees from both the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, so her
team always wins in the interstate rivalries.
About Robyn Hepker
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Designer
Benson & Hepker Design
Kellee Forkenbrock
Public Services Librarian
North Liberty Library
Kellee Forkenbrock is the award-winning Public Services Librarian for North Liberty Library in North Liberty, Iowa. She assists with the recruitment and leadership of the library’s assistant staff as well as serves as the business engagement liaison for the library. Kellee has spoken about library outreach and engagement on behalf of organizations such as the American Library Association (ALA), Association for Rural & Small Libraries (ARSL), and the Entrepreneurship and Libraries Conference (ELC). Kellee is also pursuing certifications in Pilates and yoga teacher training. She launched her movement coaching brand, The Goddess Grounded LLC, in 2024.
Kellee earned an MLIS from the University of Iowa as well as certifications in both Digital Humanities and Entrepreneur Librarianship. Prior to launching her career as a library professional, her twenty-plus years of experience in the private sector includes project management, public relations, and multimedia
advertising. Kellee is active in her community, having lent her service to the Iowa City Public Library Board of Trustees, Girls on the Run of Eastern Iowa, and currently as an Ambassador for Greater Iowa City and as Board Vice President for Iowa City UNESCO City of Literature. Read more about Kellee on her LinkedIn profile.
About Kellee Forkenbrock
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Public Services Librarian
North Liberty Library
Devin Green
Freelance Full Stack Designer
Devin Green
I’ve been in the field of graphic and web design for over 12 years. I’ve had the honor to work for many clients around the world. My goal is always to help my clients achieve their goals and make the world a better place through branding, UI/UX, and beautiful design.
Design, to me, is more than just putting pictures together. Your website, logo and marketing materials need to be based on your principles, mission, and goals. When you hire me, I will pull inspiration from you, the your client or customer base, and other existing visuals to create designs that work and communicate for you and your brand.
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Freelance Full Stack Designer
Devin Green
