Several Eastern Iowa professionals were among 40 business and community leaders from across the state who graduated from the Leadership Iowa program June 2 during the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s Taking Care of Business Conference in Des Moines.
Corridor-area graduates include Colette Atkins of Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids; Amy Bartachek of Hills Bank in Coralville; Brian Doyle of Gallagher in Cedar Rapids; Michael Muhlenbruch of Fehr Graham in Cedar Rapids; Stacie Osako of Informatics Inc. in Cedar Rapids; and Zach Schmit of Covenant Workplace Solutions in Cedar Rapids.
According to a news release, the graduates completed a nine-month program that took them to communities throughout the state, from Indianola to Iowa City, exploring issues including agriculture, renewable energy, workforce development, manufacturing, education and rural vitality.
“Leadership Iowa is much more than a program — it is an experience that challenges participants to broaden their perspectives, build meaningful relationships and strengthen their commitment to Iowa’s future,” said Nicole Crain, ABI president in a news release.
The class launched in Indianola in October and visited Fort Dodge, Cedar Valley, Des Moines, Muscatine, Decatur County and Perry before wrapping up in Coralville and Iowa City. Along the way, participants engaged in immersive sessions with business, community and government leaders across the state.
Nearly 200 volunteers contributed to the 2025-26 program, according to Meg Schneider, ABI vice president of strategic initiatives and member engagement.
“Leadership Iowa is truly an example of Iowans serving Iowans,” Ms. Schneider said in a news release. “Sharing their time, expertise and perspectives helped participants become more knowledgeable, well-rounded leaders prepared to make a difference in their communities and across Iowa.”
The ABI Foundation also recognized the program’s board of directors, volunteers, sponsors and host communities.
A full list of graduates and more information about the program is available at LeadershipIowa.com.
