Standout leader from the community featured each month
Hayley is a Universal Banker at Northwest Bank and is currently finishing her finance degree at Buena Vista University after attending Iowa Lakes Community College. She found her way into banking through a passion for helping people and enjoys building relationships while making a positive impact for her customers every day. Outside of work, you can find her teaching swim lessons at the Waukee YMCA, staying active at the gym, or spending time by the water whenever she can. Learn more here
Lydia is the Client Experience Team Lead at Merkle Retirement Planning and a graduate of Iowa State University, where she studied Event Management. She found her way into the financial services industry by looking for a people-focused role, and quickly discovered a passion for training and development along the way. Outside of work, you can find her taking yoga or barre classes (and working toward becoming an instructor), exploring new restaurants and coffee shops around Des Moines, traveling, or spending time with friends and family. Learn more here.
Cal is the Assistant Director of Employer Relations at the University of Iowa Tippie College of Business, where he focuses on building connections that support early career talent. He’s also the Social Event Lead for West YP! A University of Iowa graduate, Cal found his path in higher education through a passion for helping students succeed. He enjoys being active in the community and building relationships across the region, and he’s currently pursuing his MBA. Outside of work, you can find Cal at a hot yoga class, checking out new local restaurants, exploring the Des Moines metro, or spending time with his dog. Learn more here.
In addition to helping lead West YP as our Vice Chair, Nick is the Chief Culture Officer at RJ Lawn & Landscape. A graduate of Iowa State University, he turned a lifelong love of the outdoors into a career in horticulture. He created and launched the company’s comprehensive Internship Program in partnership with local schools and organizations, opening the door for more students to explore careers in the industry. Outside of work, you’ll likely find him at his community garden plot, exploring the East Village or Valley Junction, traveling, or hanging out with his cats, Frank and Stuart. Learn more here.
Jessica is an Actuarial Analyst III at Sammons Financial Group, where she uses data and analytics to help drive informed business decisions. A Drake University graduate, she’s passionate about meaningful work, continuous improvement and collaborating with others to make an impact. When she’s not at work, Jessica enjoys spending time outdoors, checking out local restaurants and festivals, staying involved with West YP, and tapping into her creative side through journaling and reading. Learn more here.
Step into Northern Vessel in downtown Des Moines, and there’s a good chance you’ll be greeted by Macy McAllister, the specialty coffee shop’s Hospitality Ambassador who strives to make a positive impact on each and every customer. A University of Iowa graduate and proud West YP member, Macy finds joy in connecting with others and making each interaction memorable. In her free time, she enjoys running, spending time with her chocolate lab and learning about all things health and wellness. Learn more here.
Jaden is the Clinic Manager and Business Development Coordinator at Breathe. Physical Therapy & Wellness, where she’s passionate about helping women live energetic, vibrant and active lives. A graduate of the West Des Moines Leadership Academy, Jaden thrives on seeing clients regain their confidence and strength. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her two boys, a good book, and tackling early morning workouts. Learn more here.
You may have spotted him at a networking event, seen his posts lighting up LinkedIn or even picked up his very own bobblehead at an Iowa Wolves game! Jacob Repp is a Financial Representative who believes in the power of networking to build bridges, grow careers and help shape a better tomorrow. Learn more here.
Emani Brinkman is a dedicated Associate Planner for the City of West Des Moines whose passion is making the development process easier for individuals looking to grow the city. Outside of work, you can find her plugged into the community visiting the Des Moines Farmers’ Market, attending local concerts or trying out new restaurants. Learn more here.
Evan Guest is a fun loving, innovative thinker who always has a smile on his face no matter the challenge ahead of him. Learn more here.
Connor is an easy-going, laid back individual with an energetic and crazy alter ego. He loves to be busy out in the community attending events, hanging out with friends, and being wherever life takes him. You won’t catch him without multiple cups of coffee in my system! Connor enjoys classical jazz, reading, and watching films. In his free time, you can find him golfing or in the gym. In short, Connor is a creative individual full of adventurous ideas, big thoughts, and who is always thinking ‘what’s next’. Learn more here.
After graduating from Iowa State with a degree in Civil Engineering, Megan moved to the West Des Moines area and started a job with Turner Construction. Her first few years were spent in project management on a jobsite before transitioning into Business Development. In this role, she appreciates the opportunity to be analytical while also getting to build relationships with others. Outside of work, Megan enjoys spending time with family and friends and is always up for trying a new local establishment or going to a concert. You can also find her shopping for clothes and home décor or planning her next vacation. Learn more here.
Sarah Estes is an energetic, artistic person who loves to travel and be around family. She has affinity for website design and is a portrait photographer on the weekends. Learn more here.
Brock grew up in a small town and pursued a degree in finance at the University of Iowa. After graduating, he relocated to Des Moines, where he’s worked in commercial banking for the past five years. He is passionate about problem-solving and connecting with people, both of which are central to his professional and personal life. Outside of work, he loves to spend time on the golf course and enjoy the company of friends and family. Building meaningful relationships and staying active in his community are key aspects of who he is. Learn more here.
