2020 A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS

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2020

A T RIB UTE TO I OWA WOMEN AND GIR LS
1.   An occurrence in which a group of people at a play,
     speech, sporting event, etc., show enthusiastic
     approval or appreciation by clapping their hands
     together over and over.
                                        —Merriam-Webster

2. A sustained and enthusiastic show of appreciation
     from an audience, especially by means of applause.
                                        —Oxford Dictionary

3.   An enthusiastic show of appreciation, or a
     ceremonial tribute.
                                          —Your Dictionary

     Origin: Classical Latin ovatio; from ovare, to
     celebrate a triumph, akin to Classical Greek
     euazein, to rejoice, euai, a cry of Bacchic joy.

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                                                             A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS

                                                                          Presented by the

                                                          Iowa Women’s Foundation

                                                                              2020

                                          The Iowa Women’s Foundation is committed to improving the lives of Iowa’s women and girls
                                        through a diversified mix of funding and action: research, grantmaking, advocacy, education, and
                                          collaboration. To achieve its goals and make the most significant impact, IWF brings together
                                         and invests in organizations across Iowa that make women and girls more successful. IWF is the
                                         only statewide organization working to enhance and improve women’s economic self-sufficiency.
                                                                                http://www.iawf.org

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    A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
                                                                                                                                                        Chelle Lehman, President
Welcome to the 2020 unveiling of the 7th edition of OVATION:               this edition of OVATION: A Tribute to Iowa Women and Girls. As
A Tribute to Iowa Women and Girls! As I sat down to write this             we celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the ratification of the 19th
message considering the COVID-19 crisis, I was overwhelmed by a            amendment giving women the right to vote, this theme resonates with
sense of gratitude for all essential workers on the frontlines of this     us all. We have made progress, but we dream bigger. We have made
pandemic. Your courage and resiliency to arrive in person day after        an impact, but we see a future that can become brighter. Hard Won,
day in this time of adversity is to be applauded. I am also inspired by    Not Done!
the greater good in the collective effort to remain connected as we
honor each other by practicing social distancing. As we strive to create
connection, our unveiling will differ greatly from past years. However,
I think that this will be one of our most memorable events. We are         COMPASSIONATE, TENACIOUS, INNOVATIVE, CREATIVE,
excited to share these stories of resilient Iowa women with you.           PHILANTHROPIC, COURAGEOUS, KIND

The Iowa Women’s Foundation (IWF) celebrated their 25th                    We honor and celebrate the Iowa women and girls in the 2020 edition
anniversary in 2019 and continues to impact the lives of women and         of OVATION: A Tribute to Iowa Women and Girls. You may find that
girls across the entire state. The work of IWF, driven by research,        some of the same attributes used to describe the women of the Iowa
identified six barriers that inhibit women and girls from reaching         suffrage movement are also fitting for the women and girls honored in
economic self-sufficiency:                                                 this edition. However, as you read each unique personal story you will
1) Housing                                                                 find those attributes and so many more. We celebrate all our honorees
2) Mentors                                                                 and are inspired and encouraged by the big and the small things they
3) Transportation                                                          do each day. We celebrate their stories and know that the end is not yet
4) Child Care                                                              written in all they do. Hard Won, Not Done!
5) Education/Training
6) Employment

IWF uses five key strategies to shatter these barriers: Education,         GENEROUS, BOLD, VISIONARY, FIERCE, PHENOMENAL,
Collaboration, Advocacy, Research, and Grantmaking. Through the            INTELLIGENT, WORTHY
growing support of individuals, businesses, and community partners,
IWF has awarded more than one million dollars in grants to more than       We also recognize those involved in the tribute of a friend, colleague, or
230 programs that have supported thousands of women and girls in           family member. To continue to advance the economic self-sufficiency
all 99 Iowa counties over the last quarter century, but our work is not    of women and girls, we rely on allies to shine a light. You all lead by
done. Hard Won, Not Done!                                                  example. We appreciate your dedication to share these stories of all
                                                                           women in Iowa and we appreciate your generous support of the Iowa
                                                                           Women’s Foundation!

RESILIENT, STRONG, INSPIRATIONAL, ADMIRABLE,                               Hard Won, Not Done! Let’s continue the journey together.
DEDICATED, LEADER, ORGANIZER
                                                                           Chelle Lehman
These attributes are used to characterize Carrie Chapman Catt, Mary
Jane Coggeshall, and Annie Nowlin Savery who were trailblazers of
the women’s suffrage movement in Iowa and to whom we dedicate

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                                                                                                                                        A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
DEDICATION
                                          The seventh edition of OVATION: A Tribute to Iowa             personal values. Because of this, she was banished from
                                          Women and Girls is dedicated to Carrie Chapman Catt,          the suffragist movement, but nevertheless, continued
                                          Mary Jane Coggeshall, and Annie Savery—three suffragists      her support of women through entrepreneurial and
                                          whose spirited leadership led the way to Iowa becoming the    philanthropic endeavors.
                                          10th state to ratify the 19th Amendment.
                                                                                                        In 1908, Coggeshall was part of a major lawsuit against the
                                          Savery was the first woman to address women’s suffrage        city of Des Moines after women were denied ballots in a city
                                          with a large group of Iowans—an audience that was not         bond election. Based on a law passed in 1894 which gave
     Annie Savery – courtesy of the       favorable to the movement. She founded the first women’s      women the right to vote in these types of elections, the Iowa
    State historical Society of Iowa,     suffragist society in Polk County and traveled the state as   Supreme Court ruled the Des Moines election void. This
                         Des Moines
                                          the leading spokesperson.                                     same year, Coggeshall marched in the historical women’s
                                                                                                        suffrage parade in Boone, Iowa—the third women’s
                                          Coggeshall was a founder and charter member of several        suffrage parade in the United States.
                                          suffragist groups in Des Moines. She served at the state
                                          and national level in a number of capacities, including       Catt served as president of the National American Woman
                                          president, secretary, and executive committee member. She     Suffrage Association. Under her leadership, she brought
                                          was the first editor of the monthly newspaper, Woman’s        senators and representatives together to support the
                                          Standard, and wrote for several national papers on the        suffrage movement at both the state and federal levels.
                                          subject of suffrage.                                          When the United States entered World War I, Catt moved
                                                                                                        to support the war effort, which shifted the public’s
           Carrie Chapman Catt –          Catt was an accomplished reporter who also wrote about        perception of the women’s movement. President Woodrow
    Library of Congress, Wikipedia
                                          women’s rights. She began working nationally and was          Wilson proclaimed his support of the women, and the 19th
                                          invited to speak at the 1890 National American Woman          Amendment was adopted on August 26, 1920.
                                          Suffrage Association conference. She addressed Congress
                                          on the proposed women’s suffragist amendment and served       Despite the hardships and resistance to the suffrage
                                          as president of this national group in the early 1900s and    movement, each of these women devoted much of their
                                          again from 1915–1920.                                         time, energy, and resources to their cause. They were
                                                                                                        resilient visionaries and courageous advocates who paved
                                          In 1871, the suffragists came under attack due to an          the way for future generations.
                                          advocate that strongly promoted free love, a standard
                                          not acceptable by the majority. Savery defended the right     For their strength, resilience, and passion, we dedicate this
             Mary Jane Coggeshall         of any person to join the suffrage ranks despite their        edition of Ovation in their memory.

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          A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
2020

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       A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
ANNA MILBACH
                                        Anna Milbach is Vice President, Commercial Banking Deposits and Payment
                                        Relationship Manager at US Bank in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. Anna
                                        has been with US Bank for seven years and manages Deposit and Cash
                                        Management needs of higher education institutions, municipalities, and large
                                        businesses. Anna has received recognition for her exceptional service to her
                                        clients, and has been recognized as a top performer for US Bank.

                                        Anna brings a smile to the face of those around her while also instilling a sense
                                        of total professionalism. Anna brings the wow factor to client interactions with
                                        her positive outlook and focus on solutions. Anna participated in the inaugural
                                        US Bank Women’s Sponsorship Class in 2014, and eventually took ownership
                                        of the 2020 class. This is a perfect example of Anna, going from a participant
                                        to leadership. Anna’s leadership and willingness has been important in the
                                        continuation of this program, and in devising summer programs for interns.

                                        Anna is also a leader in the community. She has served on the Waypoint
                                        Services Board of Directors since July 2014, has been on the steering
                                        committee for Women Lead Change since January 2014, actively organizing the
                                        WLC annual conference, has been a Junior Achievement classroom volunteer
                                        since 2014, and has served as the US Bank United Way Company Coordinator,
                                        responsible for exceptional employee participation and funds raised.

                                        Anna and her husband Joe live in Cedar Rapids with their two young sons.
                                        Thank you for everything you do to make our day brighter!

                                        Jeff Lara, Senior Vice President Commercial Banking and all your friends at
                                        US Bank

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    A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
DAWN MARIE MARTINEZ OROPEZA
     “If you want to make a friend, go to someone’s house and eat with him... the
      people who give you their food give you their heart.” – César A. Chávez

     Dawn Marie Martinez Oropeza is the Executive Director of ¡Al Éxito!, a
     recipient of a LULAC Latino Hero Award, a Business Record Women of
     Influence Honoree, a consultant to the César E. Chávez Foundation, an artist,
     curator, muralist, activist, Mexica dancer, sister, mother, daughter, prima,
     and the first person in Des Moines to invite me to her home for a meal.

     Dawn became the first Executive Director of a new organization ¡Al Éxito!
     that was founded in Marshalltown to help mentor Latina youth. Since her
     hire, Dawn has had the opportunity to use her blend of skills and talents as an
     artist, dancer, mentor, and educator to grow the organization to a statewide
     one that serves close to 1,000 Latinx youth each year. Through her leadership,
     the organization offers opportunities for students (many first-generation)
     and their families to visit college campuses, help parents learn about
     education and career pathways for their children, and offer culturally relevant
     programming that helps students succeed academically while embracing their
     cultural roots.

     I continue to see the fruits of Dawn’s labor: young, bright, and successful Latinx
     youth honing their skills and leadership abilities. This is all thanks to the work
     and sacrifice of Dawn Marie Martinez Oropeza: artist, educator, honoree, and
     one of the only people I know to offer me their food, and their heart.

     It is my pleasure to honor Dawn alongside the Al Éxito Board of Directors,
     Gabby Guerra, Assistant Director, her family, and her beloved friends.

     —Márlu Abarca

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                                                  A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
ROSANNE HOPSON
                                        Rosanne, you are a gem. You have so many people who love you: family, friends,
                                        past and present coworkers, and your community. Your dedication to helping
                                        and inspiring others has been shown over and over through your 20 years of
                                        nursing at UIHC, and nearly 20 years as a fitness instructor at North Dodge
                                        Athletic Club. However, you are so much more than a fitness instructor. You
                                        are a friend, therapist, chauffeur, and party planner to name a few. You are best
                                        described as selfless and always thinking of others — always.

                                        You have also spent countless hours (years?!) volunteering to make our
                                        community a better place to live. In every role you have served, from councils,
                                        committees or boards, and no matter how big or small, you lead with grace and
                                        integrity. You exemplify generosity, patience, and a knack for rolling up your
                                        sleeves and taking on a task or obstacle of any size without complaint. You can
                                        plan the perfect holiday, dinner or birthday party, or huge community event
                                        effortlessly and under budget, while giving someone else the credit. You are
                                        amazing. We are grateful.

                                        A wife to one, Rick.
                                        A mom to three + two, Emma, Alex and Vanessa, and Patrick and Tiya.

                                        A friend to all. We love you, Rosanne! Xoxo

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    A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
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A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
MARY DONEGAN-RITTER
                                         Mary Donegan-Ritter is currently serving as Interim Department
                                         Head in the Department of Teaching at UNI. This is the second time
                                         that Mary has stepped in to serve as Interim Department Head for
                                         the College of Education. Helping out, stepping in, and doing what
                                         she can for others is what Mary does best. As an associate professor
                                         of early childhood education, Mary focuses on preparing early
                                         childhood teachers for inclusive practices. A quote on her bio page
                                         highlights how inclusion teaches compassion, understanding, and
                                         patience. Mary’s compassion, patience, authenticity, and passion are
                                         reflected in her volunteering with Quota, St. Luke’s Food Pantry, her
                                         children’s school and sports, and are the characteristics that make
                                         Mary such a wonderful professor, wife, mother, daughter, friend,
                                         and colleague.

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
SARAH GOETTSCH
Sarah Elizabeth Goettsch may have been born into the church, but it
didn’t always welcome her with open arms. Raised in a family where both
grandfathers were conservative Lutheran pastors, her decision to enter
seminary was met with disapproval. In that church, women were not allowed
to be ordained. Her early response to oppression was indicative of the
dynamic, brave woman that she was to become. She stood by her convictions
and met that opposition with determination and a desire to do what’s
right and to speak up for those who are in need of an ally. That strength of
character is on display when she preaches against oppression, patriarchy,
abuse, and injustice. Her skill as a speaker is second only to her ability to
express empathy and compassion for those who surround her. When friends
were asked for their thoughts on the impact that Sarah has had on their lives,
this is what they shared:

She fights for the rights of all humans, no matter their gender identity, socio-
economic status, ethnicity, sexual preference, or religious preference/no
preference.

Her ability to be both genius and authentic in the same stroke make her
inspirational and approachable.

She is brilliant, confident, and has a way of putting all who are around her at
ease.

During Flash’s battle I found my true faith, and Sarah played a huge role in
that.

Sarah’s desire to give is unmatched by anyone I’ve ever met. She is generous
with her time, her kindness, and her love.

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                                            A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
KATE MORELAND
                                         Kate Moreland is the epitome of an empowered female leader. She leads with
                                         courage and foresight balanced with intuitiveness, kindness, and humility.
                                         She has a pulse for how to reach people on all levels, at the head and the heart.
                                         Anyone who crosses paths with Kate feels grateful and somehow better because
                                         of her presence.
                                         — Betsy Rippentrop, Heartland Yoga and Her Experience Co-Founder

                                         Kate always strives for healthy growth and is never satisfied with the status quo.
                                         Kate wants our community to be the best place to conduct business and raise
                                         children. Her dedication to helping all children succeed has been a common
                                         thread throughout her career. Our community is enriched by having Kate in a
                                         leadership position.
                                         — Jennifer Banta, Vice President, Iowa City Area Business Partnership

                                         Kate is someone you want in your corner. Those who call her friend, mentor,
                                         and colleague will tell you that she shares her natural gifts of connection,
                                         leadership, and empowerment freely. She’s an exceptional difference-maker for
                                         people and organizations, embodying what makes our community so special.
                                         — Cady Gerlach, Director of Operations, Shelter House

                                         My mom has shaped who I am, and I’ve learned many lessons which I lean
                                         on in making my way in this world. Kate taught me that kindness is always an
                                         option and the only things you can control are your attitude and your reactions.
                                         She taught me that everyone has different experiences and that everyone’s
                                         experiences matter. She’s taught me that strong women support and champion
                                         other women. For all of those lessons and many more, thank you Mom!
                                         — Meg Moreland, Kate’s daughter

                                         Congratulations on your new position as President of ICAD. We’re so proud of you.

                                         With much love, your parents (Mike and Carolyn Elwood), your mother-in-law
                                         (Mary Moreland), and your children and husband (Meg, Charlie, Jack, and Joe).

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
DR. BEVERLY A. SMITH
Dr. Beverly A. Smith recently retired as the Associate Superintendent for
Human Resources and Equity for the Waterloo Community School District.
She is currently serving as the Interim Principal for Lincoln Elementary
School. Born and raised in Waterloo, Dr. Smith earned a Bachelor of Arts
degree from Cornell College and a Master of Arts degree from the University
of Northern Iowa. She was the first African American woman to earn a
doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Northern Iowa.

She has dedicated her life to education in the state of Iowa. Prior
professional positions include elementary teacher, elementary principal,
and adjunct professor in the education departments of both Wartburg
College and the University of Northern Iowa. She has been very active in
many civic and professional organizations. She currently serves on the
Allen Hospital Board and the Black Hawk Grundy Mental Health Board.
Past involvements include serving as Chair of the State of Iowa Board of
Educational Examiners, appointments to the Iowa State Board of Regents,
the Governor’s Education Roundtable, the Governor’s Task Force for
Closing the Achievement Gap for African-American Males, service on the
boards of Cedar Valley United Way, Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts
Center, Afro-American Community Broadcasting, and past president of Tau
Zeta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Dr. Smith and her husband James have two daughters, Felicia and Nina;
three granddaughters, Brooklynn, Kingslee, and Jaymes; and two grandsons,
Aaron James and Landon Cole. She worships at Hope City Church.

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                                         A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
DORIS KELLEY

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
In virtually all aspects of Doris’s adult life,      A change agent is an individual who promotes
                                   whether she was volunteering to help serve           and supports a new way of doing something,
                                   on the Board of Directors for non-profit and         whether it’s the use of a new process, the
                                   non-partisan groups like the United Way,             adoption of a new management structure, or
                                   Salvation Army, Silo’s & Smokestacks, Waterloo       the transformation of an old business model to
                                   Telecommunications, and 50-50 in 2020;               a new one. That is what Doris has done—she’s
                                   co-chairing a referendum to help Cedar Falls         been an agent of change and a change advocate
                                   become the second city in the nation to have         while assuming responsibility for promoting
                                   fiber-to-the-home; spearheading the rejuvenation     the value of any transformation that is being
                                   of the Cedar Falls downtown merchant area            undertaken by an organization, formulating how
                                   (and receiving a national award); being hired        the transformation will happen, guiding and
                                   as the first female administrator (Marketing         supporting others through the transformation,
                                   Manager) at Cedar Falls Utilities; being the         and ensuring that the new processes, procedures,
                                   national telecommunications spokesperson             and structures are implemented in ways that
                                   for Black & Veatch Engineering; creating             deliver a value that’s greater than when she
                                   University of Northern Iowa’s Women in Politics      started any initiative.
                                   Bipartisan Scholarship Benefit to award $15,000
                                   annually in scholarships to females pursuing a       Doris exemplifies six characteristics which we
                                   career in public service; representing 30,000        marvel: a clear vision, patient yet persistent,
Travis Biggs – Biggs Photography
                                   constituents while serving in the Iowa House of      asking tough questions, street-smart knowledge,
                                   Representatives; protecting three million Iowans     leads by example, and creates a strong
                                   while in charge of Iowa’s Board of Parole; or        relationship built on trust. We respect her for
                                   chairing Iowa’s 19th Amendment Centennial            being not only a change agent with agencies and
                                   Commemoration with over 100 activities               institutions she’s represented, but also for being a
                                   occurring statewide during 2020 . . . she’s been a   change agent in our personal relationship.
                                   change agent.
                                                                                        We marvel at your passion, commitment and
                                                                                        leadership. You are an exceptional role model
                                                                                        for others. We are honored to know you, to work
                                                                                        with you, and to call you friend!

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                                                                                                      A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
KIM HORRAS
                                         “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” — Maya Angelou

                                         I was fortunate enough to interact with, watch, and learn from someone who
                                         gave those words meaning. Kim made sure things were sunny even when it was
                                         dark around us. It never seemed like work in our office with Kim there – the
                                         Halloween parades, the never-ending parties, and events to recognize people or
                                         accomplishments, while she remained in the background, smiling.

                                         The impressive part for me was when things were difficult, she continued to
                                         focus on the fun and not the dysFUNction. She kept us all human and helped us
                                         through difficult times with advice, encouragement, and a push forward to get
                                         out of the slump.

                                         It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you don’t care who gets the credit.
                                         Ms. Horras exemplified this statement, working continually behind the scenes
                                         to make all of us better, even though we thought we were doing it by ourselves.
                                         We would later realize how untrue this was.

                                         Kim taught me that it’s important to have a sense of family at work, the
                                         importance of genuinely listening, and caring for all. We may not always agree
                                         but we can always care - this is what Kim does best. Our lives are better not for
                                         what she has done, but how she taught us to do it.

                                         “…people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people
                                          will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

                                         Thanks Kim!

                                         Mark D. Iannettoni, MD, MBA
                                         W. Randolph Chitwood, Jr, MD, Distinguished Chair in Cardiovascular Sciences
                                         East Carolina Heart Institute

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
LISA GRAY                                       PHUONG TRAN
            There’s no one I would rather                 Phuong Tran grew up in Bien Hoa,
            have on my team in this life than             Vietnam, where it was accepted
            Lisa Gray. She’s always thinking              that living in America is heaven on
            of others and what she can do to              earth if you work hard. She works
            help them out or let them know                10-hour days, six days per week
            she cares. She feels the joy and              while raising two kids with her
            pain that her friends, family —               husband Tran. She never sleeps
            and strangers for that matter —               in, ever. Phuong opened Elite
            go through. She is always willing             Nails in Iowa City in 2007. She
            to give of her time when someone              has a devoted base of regulars, for
            is in need. Lisa is devoted to                good reason. After she greets you
            helping at her children’s school,             by name, she reminds you what
            organizing countless activities               colors you like as she finishes
            and the PTO. She serves on the                another guest’s manicure and
            board of the Red Shamrock                     catches up with their life, the
            Foundation — one of the many                  details of which she remembers
            ways she embraces being involved              from their last visit. Her ability to
            and making a difference. Lisa’s               make your day with the light that
            big heart touches the people                  she shines on everyone who enters
            around her and her whole                      her shop is the reason that we
            community. She makes our world                honor her today.
            a better place.

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                                                          A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
MARINAN COONS
                                         One word we could use to describe Marinan is altruistic; her unselfish
                                         devotion to the welfare of others shows in everything she does.

                                         Born in Germany and given her great-grandmother’s maiden name,
                                         Marinan’s family soon moved to Bettendorf, her hometown. Marinan
                                         married her high-school sweetheart, Scott, in 2005 after graduating from
                                         the University of Iowa in Finance. She’s faithfully available for family near
                                         and far, and she bridges the gap through regular visits and calls.

                                         An integral part of SouthGate since 2011, Marinan has been indispensable in
                                         her roles, especially the successful company transition in 2019. She steps up
                                         to tasks and projects, and she enjoys the challenge of solving a problem.

                                         Outside of work, Marinan plays softball, hangs out with friends, plays with
                                         her dog, Cammy, and cats, Everett and Randall, and enjoys gaming with her
                                         husband. With everything she does for others, she takes care of herself by
                                         focusing on her health and fitness. She and Scott are longtime RAGBRAI
                                         riders, and she participates in races and events for causes she’s passionate
                                         about —those helping people and pets. A regular volunteer at the Iowa City
                                         Animal Shelter, you’ll also find her supporting Habitat for Humanity and
                                         the Iowa Women’s Foundation. A forever fan, Marinan cheers on the Hawks
                                         no matter the sport and reunites with the Hawkeye Alumni Marching Band
                                         every year.

                                         We, the SouthGate team, are better individuals because Marinan is part of
                                         our lives. We appreciate her and are thrilled to honor her.

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
MARY KAY MCGRATH
Mary Kay McGrath has been a vital part of the Cedar Rapids community her
whole life. She raised her children here, was heavily involved in their schools
and activities while completing her own education at Kirkwood and Coe College,
served on numerous boards, and is a longstanding donor of the McGrath
Family Fund through GCRCF. Her most recent impact has been on the Czech
Village Neighborhood.

While serving on the board of the Czech and Slovak Museum, she decided
to nurture the area by purchasing properties, placing businesses, fixing up
buildings, and creating an Airbnb to boost tourism. Czech Village was just
awarded “Best Neighborhood on the Rise” and “Best Tourist Attraction.”
This community is fortunate to benefit from this remarkable woman’s influence
and dedication.

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                                           A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
JENNIFER COOPER
                                         Jeni Cooper, CCIM is Vice President and Manager of the Commercial
                                         Real Estate team at Bankers Trust. She is responsible for new business
                                         development, cross-selling of other bank products, and all phases of
                                         underwriting loans, including real estate analysis, cash flow models,
                                         profitability models, and credit underwriting. In 2019, Jeni was named
                                         Commercial Real Estate Professional of the Year by the Des Moines
                                         Business Record.

                                         Throughout her 30 years in the industry, Jeni has originated more
                                         than $2 billion in loans for construction/term financing of commercial
                                         property in Des Moines. While she certainly excels at the everyday loans
                                         any commercial real estate banker could do, Jeni has consistently taken
                                         on complex projects with multiple layers of financing and unique loan
                                         structures. She began working on these sorts of projects early in her career
                                         with low-income housing and historic tax credit projects that included
                                         several funding sources.

                                         Jeni has a knack for taking complicated projects and structuring and
                                         monitoring a loan that will achieve the developer’s or project’s goals, while
                                         at the same time protecting repayment sources for the bank and mitigating
                                         credit risks. Many of Jeni’s deals are not only good for an organization or
                                         developer, but are also contributing to important growth, development, and
                                         revitalization projects across central Iowa.

                                         She spends a significant number of hours volunteering her time and talent
                                         for affordable housing-related nonprofits in central Iowa, including serving
                                         on the board for the newly formed Iowa Housing Partnership and H.O.M.E.,
                                         Inc., where she is also treasurer.

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     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
MONICA ROGAN                                      HEATHER WOODIN
          Monica joined VGM in 2010                         Heather Woodin serves the Iowa
          as a care coordinator, and has                    City area as the Children’s and
          continuously moved up through                     Family Ministry Director at St.
          the company, spending time as a                   Andrew Presbyterian Church,
          team lead, operations manager,                    dedicating 20+ years of her life
          and assistant vice president of                   to improving the lives of children.
          business office operations. Monica                She is the definition of selfless and
          approaches her work with a                        a voice not only for children’s faith
          growth mindset. Her development                   development, but also growing
          is a testament to her commitment                  their life skills and providing for
          to continuous improvement.                        their basic needs. While Heather
                                                            would never want recognition for
          In addition, Monica sits as the                   the time and energy she gives to
          incoming chair on VGM’s Women                     ensure fun, creativity, love, and
          in Leadership (WIL) committee.                    space where all are welcome and
          Monica has been a driving force to                included, we felt it was crucial that
          provide our WIL participants with                 she be celebrated! Heather, you
          the resources, tools, and support                 are dearly loved for all you give
          network to empower their potential                back to this world, most especially
          to be heard, influence key decisions,             its children. Thank you for
          and be a sought-after strategic                   showing up every day and being
          voice within the organization.                    wonderful, amazing Y-O-U!

          Monica is married to Shane,                        Janice Baldes, Nichole Hoffman,
          mother of 2 beautiful children,                    Rebecca Schuchert, and Cindy
          Kennedy and Beckett, and                           Vonderhaar
          executes work life management
          flawlessly.

          With admiration,
          VGM’s Women in Leadership

                                                                                                21
                                                            A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
LORET MAST
                                         Loret Mast is a character in the best sense. Born and raised in Montana, she
                                         rode her horse Lark to her one room schoolhouse, and when she learned to
                                         drive a car, with her pet sheep Mossy. After attending Montana State University,
                                         she married Tom Burton and, with three young children (Craig, Julia, and
                                         Hanly), made her way to Iowa City, where Tom assumed a faculty position at
                                         the UI College of Medicine. In addition to full time parenting, she earned her
                                         BFA in painting from the UI. A fierce advocate of women’s, human, and LGBTQ
                                         rights, and politically active in local and national politics, Loret has served on
                                         the boards of DVIP, RVAP, Iowa Abortion Rights Action League, and NARAL.
                                         Some of Loret’s favorite memories of grassroots politics are attending rallies
                                         with her daughter Julia and driving Jesse Jackson Sr. across Iowa during his
                                         presidential campaigns.

                                         Loret is a prolific painter and ceramicist, with works at UIHC and in private
                                         homes. She’s known in the community for her love of animals: this photo was
                                         taken when she and her dog Guernsey won a pet/owner look-a-like contest!
                                         She’s generous with friends, helping care for them when they are ill and
                                         serenading them on the accordion for birthdays!

                                         Her love for her family is exceeded only by how much they treasure her: “Loret
                                         has an insatiable curiosity about the world. She has a wickedly sharp sense
                                         of humor, an incredible mind, and a courageous heart. I’m honored to be her
                                         daughter.”

                                         To Loret with much love, from Julia, Hanley, all the grandkids, and your many,
                                         many friends.

22
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
ELIZA PROCTOR
Eliza Proctor is…

•   “an INSPIRATION to everyone she comes into contact with and is willing to help all those
    around her.”

•   “a FRIEND who makes each person feel he/she is the most special, important human in her
    world.”

•   “a LISTENER to stakeholders, is solution driven, prioritizes students, and encourages growth
    amongst her staff so we can be the BEST.”

•   “a WOMAN who goes above and beyond for everyone around her and expects nothing in
    return.”

•   “an EDUCATOR who is student-centered, forward-thinking, and approachable.

•   “a SURROGATE DAUGHTER who handles any crisis with clarity, poise, strength, and humor.”

•   “a NURTURER who makes all her students feel welcome, loved, and cared for.”

•   “a dynamic young LEADER who creates a community of families who want to come together
    for the greater good of all students”.

•   “a PROFESSIONAL mixed with an amazing heart and devotion to students’ success with a
    wicked sense of humor.”

•   “a CHAMPION of patience who makes every child feel important by remembering their names
    from day one.”

•   “a COLLABORATOR who stays present with families of special needs children.”

•   “a SUPPORTER who shows up during a family’s darkest hour, bringing gifts of joy and hope.”

•   “an ADVOCATE who represents strength under pressure, empathy for those with life
    situations, humor for the days when you just have to laugh.”

•   “a HELPER who helps students on their day when they’re having a bad day and she helps
    figure problems out. She is the best best best best best (five bests) principal in the world.”

                                                                                                     23
                                                              A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
VICKI BROWN
                                         Simply put, Vicki Brown is a trailblazer, paving her own path throughout
                                         the volleyball world in a short time. In May 2019, Vicki was unexpectedly
                                         named the head coach of the Iowa volleyball team, becoming one of two
                                         female coaches in the Big Ten Conference and the second African American
                                         head coach in Big Ten volleyball history. She didn’t hesitate when her
                                         name was called, becoming a leader for her student-athletes, staff, and the
                                         University of Iowa Athletics Department.

                                         It was clear from the beginning, the job was earned, not given. A former All-
                                         Big Ten volleyball player at Illinois, it only took Vicki 11 years to find herself
                                         at the helm of the nation’s best volleyball conference. If you ask those
                                         around her, they believe even that is overdue. Perhaps the most exciting
                                         thing about Vicki is that her footprint in the world of sport is only beginning.

                                         Vicki’s larger-than-life personality is infectious; every conversation always
                                         includes a smile and a laugh. Her personal mantra, “I will use my platform
                                         to assist in the development of female empowerment always, in all ways”,
                                         isn’t just something she says, but something she demonstrates every day.
                                         Though her life as head coach keeps her busy, her family remains a top
                                         priority. She’s especially proud of her role as Aunt Vicki. She’s the family
                                         member you can rely on, the friend you want by your side, and leader you
                                         want as your coach. The world is a better place because of you, Vicki Brown!

24
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
NINA LOHMAN
The world is full of boxes and Nina Lohman doesn’t fit into a single one of them.

Nina is a poet. An explorer. A sister, a mother, a daughter. A friend. Nina
listens and cares and makes everyone she talks to feel like the only person in
the room. And the thing is: it is real. For that moment, they are.

Nina makes order from chaos. Her junk drawer is probably better organized
than your filing cabinet.

She is full of surprises. Ask her about her unicycle sometime.

Nina makes art and shares art and is an essential, inconspicuous, and
indispensable part of making Iowa City the Greatest Small City for the Arts. She
exudes the wonder of a child and the sagacity of someone far beyond her years.
Her genuine good nature, wicked sense of humor, and dogged work ethic are
unparalleled. She is generous. True. Beautiful.

And everything she touches turns to gold.

                                                                                 25
                                             A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
CAROL ANN SEYDEL
                                         Carol Ann Seydel was an amazing woman. She was a
                                         daughter, wife, mother, friend, teacher, and grandmother
                                         that was loved and feared by many. Carol expected the best
                                         from you. Because of her love and commitment, you were
                                         compelled to respond to those expectations. If you were her
                                         student, you became a better writer. If you were her child,
                                         you learned to strive for something better. If you were
                                         her grandchild, you grew up knowing that you were loved
                                         unconditionally.

                                         Her first teaching license was in Home Economics, but she
                                         hated cooking and loved to joke about that. She had five
                                         children under the age of five, and became a matriarch and
                                         formulated a recipe for a great family event. We all loved to
                                         gather and eat, and still do because of her. It wasn’t really
                                         about the food, it was about providing comfort, people, and
                                         a reason to gather.

                                         Getting together was and is our family’s tradition.

26
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
Here are some secret family “recipes” to make you laugh          ●   Wake Up At Grandma’s House – if there are no
and celebrate your family history.                                   frozen sourdough pancakes, expect to find toaster
                                                                     strudels without the frosting packets. Eat them that way
●   Grandma’s Turkey Roast – get a Jennie O pressed                  unless you find extra frosting packets, in which case you
    turkey roast and place in oven. Take drippings and               eat all the frosting packets with your toaster strudel and
    serve with mashed potatoes and stuffing.                         leave the remainder for those who woke up late. If there
                                                                     were no frosting packets, you woke up late.
●   Liver and Onions – get one disgusting piece of liver
    and some onions and put them in a pan and cook               ●   Grandma’s Dove Bars – come to Grandma’s house,
    them until they are disgusting. Serve. Sit at the table          look through the cupboards, find nothing good, look
    until you have eaten your liver and onions, or all night,        in their freezer, find little Dove bars, but don’t take
    whichever comes first. Any chance to feed the dog is a           any. Walk forlornly in Grandma’s view until she offers
    welcome relief from this ritual. Otherwise, it’s all night       you one, at which time you’re free and clear to eat the
    at the table.                                                    whole box.

●   Carol and Lyle’s Last Stand Turkey Dinner -                  Thank you, Carol, Mom, Grandma. We love you and miss
    prepare turkey for roasting, argue about who’s doing         you.
    what when, place turkey in oven, set to temperature,
    prepare all side dishes. Wait until appropriately too
    late to recover, pull out wonderful looking turkey
    and recognize that it is indeed a rare treat- oven is
    set to broil, not bake. Argue about what went wrong.
    Continue arguing while two of the children hack up
    the turkey and place in the microwave. Argue about
    whether the stuffing inside should be thrown away.
    Argue about whether the carcass should be saved
    for soups and such. Sit down and enjoy with great
    consternation and worry about digestive diseases.

                                                                                                                                                                  27
                                                                                                                              A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
THE WOMEN OF UNITED WAY OF
JOHNSON & WASHINGTON COUNTIES
                                                                                                              Celebrating 100 Years

                                                                                                              Small but Mighty” only begins to
                                                                                                              describe the team at United Way of
                                                                                                              Johnson & Washington Counties.
                                                                                                              Together, these eight women strive
                                                                                                              each day to honor our region by
                                                                                                              prioritizing strong community
                                                                                                              engagement, creative partnerships,
                                                                                                              and supporting local agencies to
                                                                                                              address critical issues in education,
                                                                                                              financial stability, and health. The
                                                                                                              foundation of their work is based on
                                                                                                              their commitment to drive lasting,
                                                                                                              positive change and to facilitate each
                                                                                                              philanthropic investment to create
                                                                                                              a deeper and more lasting impact.
                                                                                                              They measure their success in actual
                                                                                                              lives changed, and their compassion,
•    Katie Knight leads her team by exemplifying honesty, integrity, resilience, empathy, and open-           perspective, and drive to make the
     mindedness.                                                                                              world a better place is uplifting.
•    Terri Anderson deeply cares, provides accountability, and strengthens organizational effectiveness.
                                                                                                              Sincere gratitude from your
•    Lois Buntz fosters strategic donor engagement as an accomplished leader in philanthropy.
                                                                                                              community supporters and friends!
•    Patti Fields spearheads community investments, volunteer engagement, and data collection for improving
     people’s lives.
•    Wendy Nolan organizes volunteer projects, donation drives, and community impact committee work.
•    Amy Schaefer works collaboratively, supporting the team and welcoming visitors.
•    Carol Rowland is mission-focused and exemplifies highly competent donor data management skills.
•    Trisha Smith mobilizes people as a dynamic connector inspiring greater commitment and increasing
     donors and revenue.

28
        A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
JACKIE REGER                                                               JODY WHITE
                                                                                         Jody White is the definition of
                                                                                         a life-long giver, the epitome of
                                                                                         ebullience, graciousness, and
                                                                                         encouragement.

                                                                                         Jody is the Executive Director
                                                                                         and Founding Partner of Dress
                                                                                         for Success Des Moines. Since
                                                                                         2011, they have helped over
                                                                                         2,500 women who are supporting
                                                                                         more than 5,000 children in the
                                                                                         Des Moines community on their
                                                                                         career journeys.

                                                                                        She volunteers at the St. Francis
                                                                                        Academy Library, as Assistant
                                                                                        Coach for Girls on the Run, and
Jackie is a dedicated member of her family, a contributor in her                        the School Auction. She is a Girl
community, and a frontline healthcare worker in the Iowa City VA system.                Scout Troop Leader, Treasurer
She is the rock of the Reger-Wahls household—a committed wife to Terry,                 and Co-Cookie Mom. She led
a loving “short mom” to Zeb and Zach, and “Alpha” to our dog Teddy.                     the East High School Alumnae
                                                                                        Association Annual Gala &
Jackie is quick to lend a helping hand—maintaining local mountain                       Silent Auction.
bike trails, serving as a Den Mother, volunteering with Moms Demand
Action, helping Terry figure out how Instagram works—she always goes                     In her “free time”, she runs 5Ks
above and beyond.                                                                        and half marathons, golfs, and
                                                                                         attends Hawkeye sports. She is
Our lives are transformed by your words and works. We are proud to be                    a selfless leader who empowers,
honoring you and all the contributions you have made to our lives.                       inspires, and enriches our
                                                                                         community!
From your family—Terry, Zeb, Zach, and Teddy

                                                                                                                            29
                                                                                        A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
CAMILLE HOGAN
                                         Camille Hogan of Waterloo views her life as a tapestry, with her family creating
                                         the main threads. Married for 57 years, she and Dennis are devoted to their
                                         daughter Stephanie (David) LeCompte and grandchildren Nathan, Meta, and
                                         Caroline.

                                         The other threads represent the people with whom Camille has worked. She
                                         considers the Junior League of Waterloo-Cedar Falls, where she served as
                                         president, her outstanding “prep school for volunteerism.” While Camille
                                         has served on over a dozen other boards, usually in leadership positions, the
                                         Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center was a primary focus. Throughout
                                         her fourteen years on the Board, Camille was part of the visioning and
                                         feasibility study for the PAC, the major gifts campaign (which she and Dennis
                                         co-chaired), construction of the facility, and the critical early years of the
                                         GBPAC. She also served as the Board’s chair.

                                         In 1979, Camille purchased Shorts Travel in Waterloo. Today, the family
                                         corporation, now run by her son-in-law, specializes in corporate and sports
                                         travel. Shorts is still headquartered in Waterloo but has staff/offices in 27 states.
                                         Camille’s other volunteer passion began with Wheaton Fransican Iowa/
                                         Covenant Hospital (now MercyOne). Camille chaired the Covenant Board, then
                                         became one of nine members of the WF Governing Board. Today she chairs the
                                         Otto Schoitz Foundation, with assets over $50 million, created when MercyOne
                                         received the hospital. Her leadership in getting the Foundation started, and
                                         distributing funds to enhance the health and quality of life of residents in the
                                         Cedar Valley, has been a gift to the community.

                                         The Cedar Valley thanks Camille for the opportunity to be part of the beautiful
                                         tapestry her life has created.

30
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
NANCY HUMBLES
Strive to make a difference in students’ lives.

Nancy Humbles has based her life’s work on these words. She has made that
difference by encouraging, mentoring, and advocating for students to help
them maximize their personal potential.

Nancy has worked with students all her life. She began her career at the
Marion Learning Center working with high school dropouts. She also
worked with children at the Jane Boyd Community House before joining
the University of Iowa in 1990 as an academic counselor, commuting from
Cedar Rapids where she lived with her husband and children.

During her years at the university she became a valued advisor in the Tippie
College of Business and later held other positions that provided support
to underserved students. From 2007 until her retirement in 2015, Nancy
served as the director of the UI Center for Diversity and Enrichment. She
devoted her efforts to providing opportunities and resources for students
from diverse backgrounds, including students of color, first-generation
college students, and students from low-income families.

In retirement she remains busy, serving on numerous boards and
committees. She is the first African American elected to the Cedar Rapids
Community School District Board of Education and currently serves as
board president. She recently joined the African American Museum of Iowa
(AAMI) Board of Directors. She is a recipient of the AAMI History Maker
Award, NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award, and 2017 UI Distinguished
Alumni Award. She was a 2019 inductee into the Iowa African American
Hall of Fame.

With respect, admiration, and gratitude from your friends and former
colleagues

                                                                               31
                                           A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
NORA LEE BALMER
                                         Wife, Mother, Confidant, Grandmother, Businesswoman, Great-
                                         Grandmother, Philanthropist.

                                         Nora Lee Balmer has excelled in many roles through her 92 years, and the
                                         preceding list captures just a few of them. She is known amongst the family
                                         as The Matriarch and remains the driving force behind her ever-growing
                                         brood.

                                         Nora Lee and husband Wayne, who recently celebrated their 72nd year of
                                         marriage, moved from Kellogg to Iowa City in 1958 to join her father’s new
                                         business, Plumbers Supply Company (PSC).

                                         While Wayne was helping grow the business on the front end, Nora Lee was
                                         making sure bills were paid and relationships with the bank were strong.
                                         When they retired in 1998, the company had grown, and the back office was
                                         a well-oiled operation. During this time, her role at PSC was actually her
                                         second job. Raising her three boys (John, Jim, David) and one girl (Mary),
                                         along with managing the household, was her primary role, and we’re all
                                         thankful for it. With nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, Nora
                                         Lee continues to be active and extremely generous with her time and energy.

                                         Speaking of generosity, Nora Lee was exposed to the arts and possibilities
                                         of Hancher early on and has been a supporter ever since. In addition to
                                         Hancher, the Hawkeye wrestling program holds a special place in Nora
                                         Lee’s heart. She appreciates the work ethic and the heart of the team, and
                                         she prefers it when the Hawks cut to the chase and pin the other guy.

                                         We love you, Grammie!

32
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
CAROL BODENSTEINER
Carol Bodensteiner is a writer who finds inspiration in the people, places,
culture, and history of the Midwest. Born and raised on her family’s dairy farm
in eastern Iowa, Carol published a memoir Growing Up Country: Memories of
an Iowa Farm Girl in 2008. Her debut novel Go Away Home was published
in 2015. This WWI era novel was the 2014 Readers’ Favorite SILVER MEDAL
winner in the Historical Fiction-Personage category. In 2018 Carol published
her second novel Simple Truth.

It is through Carol’s love for people, places, and culture that she found her way
to the Oakridge Neighborhood where she invested nine years as a member of the
Oakridge Board of Directors. Comprised of individuals representing 16 countries
and speaking 25 different languages, Carol immersed herself in the Oakridge
work where a service enriched housing model allows children, adults, and
families to develop to their full potential.

Carol is the consummate non-profit board leader and ideal volunteer who
continues to share her immense communication and public relations skills, her
incredible generosity, and philanthropic spirit to the benefit of the Oakridge
organization and those it serves.

When one thinks of Carol Bodensteiner words like passionate, committed,
steadfast, and persistent come to mind. Carol embodies the spirit and intent of
this recognition by the Iowa Women’s Foundation and Oakridge is incredibly
proud to celebrate her and all she has done to benefit the organization and the
Des Moines community.

Thanks and congratulations, Carol Bodensteiner!

                                                                                 33
                                             A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
CHRIS ROHRET
                                         Chris Rohret is the definition of a lifelong learner.
                                         Ask her what she’s reading these days, and she has a
                                         variety of reading materials on her end table: several
                                         professional books about teaching gifted learners
                                         or online learning, a home decorating magazine,
                                         fictional texts from Oprah’s book club, the NY Times
                                         bestseller list, and her daily crossword puzzle from
                                         the newspaper to expand her vocabulary. Her love
                                         of learning, reading, and questioning shows how
                                         passionate she is about continuing to educate herself
                                         and others.

                                         As a mother, she would often leave her children’s
                                         questions with more questions. Her responses often
                                         prompted them to think deeper, like, “Why do you
                                         think that? How would it change if…? What do you
                                         think people could do about…? Where could you find
                                         the answers to that question?” Chris has served a
                                         multitude of roles as a mentor, teacher, or simply an
                                         interested learner and participant in the community.

                                         Her involvement in groups and committees in
                                         the Iowa City area highlights her leadership and
                                         organizational abilities as well as her desire to keep
                                         learning new things. Chris has not only had a huge
                                         impact on the learning of her children, who also
                                         became teachers, but also her grandchildren, sisters,
                                         brothers, fellow teachers, friends, community
                                         members, and countless others who have crossed
                                         her path.

34
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
FEMALE ALLIANCE
OF CIVIL ENGINEERS                                                           BECKY SVATOS
                                                                                         Making the world a better place
                                                                                         has always been the driving force
                                                                                         behind Becky’s life and work.
                                                                                         From a career spanning decades
                                                                                         as an environmental engineer
                                                                                         and as current Vice President
                                                                                         with Stanley Consultants, to
                                                                                         her empowerment of countless
                                                                                         women with the Society of
                                                                                         Women Engineers, Becky is
                                                                                         always fighting for future
                                                                                         generations. Another of the
                                                                                         countless examples of Becky
                                                                                         improving our world and helping
                                                                                         those in need, is her work as
                                                                                         President of the Iowa Chapter
The Female Alliance of Civil Engineers exists to create a community on
                                                                                         of Engineers Without Borders,
campus with the purpose of improving the networking opportunities
                                                                                         where she has worked to bring
for women and their allies within the civil engineering department at
                                                                                         fresh water to remote villages in
the University of Iowa. The goal of this group is to empower and unify
                                                                                         El Salvador.
women pursing a degree in civil engineering, by creating a safe place for
women to study, network, and talk about the experiences and challenges
                                                                                         Even while changing the world,
faced in this field.
                                                                                         she has always shown endless love
                                                                                         and care for her family. We could
Outside support has assisted financially and provided structure,
                                                                                         not be prouder of her and we love
networking opportunities, and mentoring. Co-founder Stephanie Krogh
                                                                                         her so much!
said it best – “supporting women is important in any field: representation
matters. When you look around and see other women succeeding, it boosts
your own self confidence. You are not alone.”

Thank you Co-founders Emily King, Stephanie Krogh and Sara Stickney
for paving the way for female Civil Engineers!

                                                                                                                            35
                                                                                        A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
JASMINE ALMOAYYED
                                         Jasmine Almoayyed manages the City of Cedar Rapids Economic Development
                                         Division, directing economic development activities for the city, including new
                                         business recruiting, retention, workforce development, strategic planning, and
                                         marketing. Before joining the city in January 2013, she performed business and
                                         economic development outreach at Kirkwood Community College.

                                         Jasmine holds BA degrees in psychology and political science from the
                                         University of Iowa, and a master’s degree in political science from Iowa State
                                         University. She serves on the board for the Greater Cedar Rapids Community
                                         Foundation, Four Oaks, and the Regional Workforce Investment Board, and is
                                         a past member of the board for the Entrepreneurial Development Center, East
                                         Central Iowa Council of Governments, and Corridor Metropolitan Planning
                                         Organization.

                                         Jasmine has a passion for creating programming and solutions to encourage
                                         diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a first-generation American, she has
                                         a perspective and understanding of how inclusive practices can produce
                                         economic benefits which, with her determination and persistence throughout
                                         the course of her unique journey, has resulted in unprecedented new business
                                         development and support service growth within Cedar Rapids.

                                         Born to her Bosnian parents, Jasmine was raised with the value of hard work
                                         and helping the disadvantaged. Upon marrying her husband, Andrew, she
                                         gained family in Bahrain, which has given the Almoayyeds an excuse to do what
                                         they love – travel and see family. Jasmine’s most important accomplishment
                                         arrived in 2019, when her daughter Aya was born. She’s already working on
                                         instilling her values in Aya, with no limitations on what she can accomplish.

36
     A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
RAQUISHIA HARRINGTON
RaQuishia improves any community she sets foot in, let alone the community
she lives in. I am beyond blessed to have her as a friend and thankful every time
she asks me to help. I will be forever grateful for all that she has taught me.
—Tanika Moreland

Mrs. RaQuishia Harrington perfectly balances being down to earth and
professional, selfless and magnetic. From the time I met her in 5th grade honor
orchestra to today, you know when she walks in a room and you miss her when
she has left. Now, imagine this as she touches her community.
— Rozetta Elder

It’s not often that “big sisters” are looked up to by younger brothers, but the
person you are and the things you have accomplished in life make me extremely
proud to be your “little brother.” You are a great example to everyone that
knows you. I love you.
— Marquellos + The Millers

RaQuishia is a beautiful woman inside and out who knows this community.
When people come together for positive change, she’s always there. She is
committed to community and to serving. She is truly deserving of this!
— Royceanne Porter

If it’s a cause to better, to change, or bring awareness to, RaQuishia’s there.
Having a modest, easygoing demeanor, my daughter is a quiet storm leaving an
awesome trail of success and well deserving of the honors she’s receiving.
— Ida White

These individuals’ words capture what all of us feel for you, RaQuishia.

                                                                                 37
                                             A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
OAKNOLL’S ADMINISTRATION TEAM OF WOMEN LEADERS
                                                                                                                          Oaknoll would like to thank
                                                                                                                          and celebrate the women of our
                                                                                                                          management team. This group has
                                                                                                                          83 years of combined experience and
                                                                                                                          leadership in the Oaknoll community
                                                                                                                          – just about the average age of the
                                                                                                                          residents we serve! Every day they
                                                                                                                          CREATE home for our residents, and
                                                                                                                           employees. CREATE is an acronym for
                                                                                                                           our corporate values of Caring, Respect,
                                                                                                                          Enthusiasm, Awareness, Teamwork,
     Kimberly Haring                   Laura O’Connor               Retha Haas                Kim Bergen-Jackson, PhD     and Encouragement. The management
     Marketing Director                Wellness Director     Director of Resident Relations        Administrator
         21 Years                          19 Years                     13 Years                      10 Years            team works together to help everyone
                                                                                                                           stay healthy, happy, and engaged in
                                                                                                                          the life of the community. The women
                                                                                                                          being recognized lead by example.
                                                                                                                          They inspire, motivate, encourage, and
                                                                                                                           challenge our employees to bring their
                                                                                                                          talents and interests to work to share
                                                                                                                          with our residents. These amazing
                                                                                                                          women also dedicate their time and
                                                                                                                          talents outside of the workplace with
                                                                                                                           other non-profit organizations to
                                                                                                                           support those in need. Oaknoll is proud
                                                                                                                           of and thankful for all the women on
                                                                                                                           our team! We look forward to many
                                       Sarah Ruhlmann           Krissy Gilbreth                   Darcy Sanford
                                       Director of Nursing   Human Resources Director           Chief Financial Officer   more years of growing together.
                                             9 Years                7 Years                             4 years
                                                                                                                          Photo Credit: Alicia Hamm

38
        A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
KRISTEN COREY
Kristen Corey is passionate about equality and inclusiveness. She works to
expand opportunities for women and girls and give voice to Iowans who are
often underrepresented and undervalued. It’s fitting, then, that Kristen finds
motivation in this Jane Goodall quote — “What you do makes a difference, and
you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

Kristen is purpose-driven and knows what kind of difference she wants to make.
She leads the Iowa Office on the Status of Women as its program planner. She
has actively forged collaborative initiatives to engage women of all backgrounds
and interests, while working as a champion to expand opportunities and
improve policies that affect the education, economic security, and safety of
Iowa women and their families.

Kristen earned undergraduate and master’s degrees from Iowa State University.
She started her career in academic research for ISU Extension, then moved to
a policy position with the Iowa Department of Human Services Child Support
Recovery Unit. At the Office on the Status of Women, she advocates for early
childhood education, expanded access to quality childcare, equality and
financial security for women, and a range of policies to improve the lives of
Iowa women and girls.

One way to expand opportunities is through the Iowa Talent Bank – an online
tool that connects interested individuals with governmental roles serving on
state and local boards and commissions. Kristen played a pivotal role to make
this concept a working reality and a catalyst for inclusivity.

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                                           A TRIBUTE TO IOWA WOMEN AND GIRLS
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