WDMLA Alumni of the Year Award
Established in 2026, the West Des Moines Leadership Academy (WDMLA) Alumni Award was created to recognize graduates who exemplify the mission of WDMLA long after completing the program. This award honors alumni who continue to lead themselves, lead others, and lead within their communities through service, innovation, collaboration, and civic engagement.
By recognizing outstanding alumni achievements, the WDMLA Alumni Award highlights the lasting impact of the Leadership Academy and inspires future generations of leaders to invest in their communities and create meaningful change.
2025-2026 WDMLA Alumni of the Year Award Winner: Mayor Russ Trimble
"I cannot accept this award without acknowledging all of the phenomenal leaders who have come through this incredible program and are equally deserving of this award. It is with the utmost humility and pride that I accept this award on behalf of all the incredible leaders who have come through this amazing program, including my fellow classmates from the inaugural class of the WDM Leadership Academy who continue to lead their organizations, continue to inspire and help make this community and central Iowa what it is today."