Poweshiek Leadership Program looks for participants

GRINNELL — The Poweshiek Leadership Program is seeking applicants for its next session, which will meet monthly from September through May.

Since its inception over thirty years ago, PLP has been dedicated to connecting and cultivating informed and engaged leaders across Poweshiek County, said a press release from Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation.

Each session seeks participants from diverse professional and personal backgrounds to deepen their understanding of the county’s assets, challenges and opportunities while building networks across areas such as business, education, agriculture, nonprofits and government, the press release says.

The program provides a series of nine immersive, interactive sessions focusing on leadership, civic engagement, economic development, and community collaboration. The program is designed to develop individual potential and to strengthen the broader community through networking with informed, connected and motivated citizens.

PLP is a collaboration of Imagine Grinnell (formerly Grinnell 2000), Iowa Valley Continuing Education, Poweshiek Economic Development (formerly Pow I-80) and Poweshiek County Extension.

This year the program will be facilitated by a new partnership with Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation. More than 600 professionals have graduated from the program since its inception and the alumni network is strong.

The 2025-26 class will meet monthly, typically on Thursday or Friday in the third week of the month from September through May, according to the press release.

One highlight of the Poweshiek program is the annual trip to the State Capitol wherein class members meet with legislators and experience what a debate on the floor of the House of Representatives might entail. That session is typically in November or December and dependent on the schedule at the Capitol.

Each session will delve into key elements driving the success and economy of Poweshiek County. Tours of our education centers, local businesses, food systems, public services and seats of government are paired with experiential learning through guided panel discussions and simulation activities.

As the class draws to a close in May, members work together to plan a golf tournament fundraiser prior to graduating from the class.

Businesses and organizations are encouraged to consider sponsoring employees who will benefit from building professional networks and learning more about the county. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 4 from individuals who live or work in Poweshiek County. The course fee is $400 with a $50 early-bird discount available for applications submitted by Aug. 22.

Applications can be downloaded from greaterpcf.org. Or contact Amy Blanchard at amy@greaterpcf.org to receive an application.

All applications should be submitted via email to Amy or via mail to PLP, PO Box 344, Grinnell, IA 50112.

The Poweshiek Leadership Program is guided by an advisory committee representing the founding partners and program alumni. Current advisory committee members are Alathia Andera, Stephanie Beatty, Ashtyn Beek, Jennifer Cogley, Kim Faas, Christy Kaisand, Mindy Kostow, Ashley Krebill, Tabitha Kriegel, Trevor Martin, Breana McIlrath, Martha Pinder, Melissa Strovers, and Les Taylor.

Class facilitators for 2025-26 will be Mike Garman, Bub Hurst, and Courtney Stock with organizational support through Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation staff, Amy Blanchard.

The Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, founded in 1989, is a nationally accredited nonprofit organization that assists donors in supporting local nonprofits and charitable causes to make life better for people in the area.