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 600+ 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 Leah Dillon to get access if not!
Want to reconnect with your class and meet other leaders who have been through this same experience? Check out these annual events, and check back here when we’re close to each for registration information!
The WDMLA Alumni Event is an annual gathering that brings together graduates of the WDM Leadership Academy and the program’s current class. It’s a chance for alumni to reconnect with classmates, stay involved with WDMLA, and meet the leaders who are following in their footsteps.
During the evening, the current class shares their community project, giving alumni a firsthand look at how the program continues to give back to West Des Moines. Each year brings a new theme and fresh activities.
Register for this year’s Alumni Reunion HERE!
Day of Kindness was initially founded by WDMLA Alumni in 2021, and it has since grown to a statewide celebration with Governor Kim Reynolds and West Des Moines Mayor Russ Trimble, WDMLA graduate, signing annual proclamations.
We hold a Day of Kindness sock drive to collect donations for WDM Human Services through WDMLA Alum Mick Grossman’s “Socks of Love” project. Together in 2026, we donated a record-breaking 4,100 pairs!
Learn more and donate socks HERE!
