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The purpose of the WDMLA alumni group is to support the overall program’s vision of building strong leaders and positively influencing the community.
Strong leaders have strong networks, and the relationships of this program continue to grow past the 9-months of curriculum. The alumni committee creates fun, engaging opportunities throughout the year for alumni to re-connect, continue to grow, give back, and expand their network through the almost 500 person alumni base.
Alumni also help with recruitment efforts and provide guidance to the current class for their class project.
Are you on the private WDMLA Alumni LinkedIn Group? Contact Kara Matheson to get access if not!
Want to reconnect with your class and meet other leaders who have been through this same experience? We have two socials, a philanthropy opportunity, and a professional development event. Check out these annual events, and check back here when we’re close to each for registration information!
The annual WDMLA Alumni Reunion is always a fan favorite. We had trivia and prizes, drinks tickets, the chance to connect with your class and other leaders, and the opportunity to hear about the current class’s project. All event proceeds went to support this year’s class project!
Presented by Security National Bank
Day of Kindness was initially founded by Alumni of the WDM Leadership Academy in 2021, and it has since grown to a statewide celebration with Governor Kim Reynolds and West Des Moines Mayor Russ Trimble, past WDMLA graduate, signing annual proclamations.
We also hold a Day of Kindness sock drive where we collect new socks to donate to WDM Human Services through WDMLA Alum Mick Grossman’s “Socks of Love” project. Together in 2025, we donated a record-breaking 3,432 pairs!
Presented by Signal Security
Raccoon River Palooza is scheduled for June 7, 2025 from 8 AM to 8 PM. This is a FREE family-friendly summer festival celebrating the West Des Moines community and outdoor recreation! Attractions for the event include live music, cardboard boat races, a vendor fair with fun activities for kids, a beverage tent featuring craft beer, food trucks, and so much more!
The WDMLA Alumni will be gathering at this event to socialize and maybe even participate in the cardboard boat races. Which class will take home one of the prizes?!
Presented by Superstorm Restoration
The connections and development don’t end after Graduation. We have an opportunity just for you that will provide invaluable personal & professional tools, and you can widen your circle of influence by meeting additional graduates. Last year featured a “Wired for Wellbeing” session where Vanessa McNeal taught Alumni tools to decreased stress within a world where leaders so often feel overwhelmed. Stay tuned for details and registration for the 2025 event!
Presented by RDG Planning & Design
Beverage Sponsor: MHCS
