Better Together 2030 Excellence in Action Awards honors impactful Johnson County leaders

The Better Together 2030 Excellence in Action Awards was held at the Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights Jan. 30.
The Better Together 2030 Excellence in Action Awards was held at the Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights Jan. 30. CREDIT ANNIE SMITH BARKALOW

A Johnson County community and economic vision plan that sprang from the ashes of the 2020 pandemic celebrated individuals and initiatives who have helped shape their community through efforts with sustainability, economic development, social services, arts, education and transportation.

Hosted at the Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights on Jan. 30, the third annual Better Together 2030 Excellence in Action Awards highlighted key focus areas of its All In Vision Plan.

“I’m heartened every day by the community we live in, witnessing our collective ability to act local, to make a direct and positive change,” said Better Together 2030 Executive Director and Greater Iowa City, Inc.’s Director of Community Development Cady Gerlach. “Every day, when we are doing what we can with what we have, where we are, we can do anything, and when we look back in five years, I know that the All In Vision will be something each of us can say we played a part in moving forward.”

The BRAVO Awards recognized achievements across five categories:

  • Champions of the Natural Environment recognized Pat Heiden & Bill Waldie for their advocacy and leadership in the successful passage of the Conservation Bond renewal, and their commitment to protecting Johnson County’s green spaces, trails and natural resources through public service and support.
  • Authentic and Vibrant Neighborhoods honored GT Karr for his dedication to the Student Build Program, which provides high school students with hands-on construction experience, supporting both workforce development and affordable housing initiatives.
  • A Well-Connected, Mobile Region acknowledged Kelly Schneider and Trip Connect for her work as Johnson County’s Social Service Mobility Coordinator, leading the development of the Trip Connect program to expand transit options for residents in need.
  • Inclusive Economic Ecosystem celebrated Robin Springer for her advocacy in supporting small businesses and nonprofits through financial empowerment programs and leadership roles in local organizations, including the Greater Iowa City, Inc. Business Resource Center.
  • Reimagined Human and Social Services recognized the Coralville Community Food Pantry for its innovative food access programs, such as the Coralville Community Meal, which brings together hundreds of residents in a welcoming, inclusive space.

The Better Together 2030 Awards honored the following:

  • Business Radio Sales & Service, Inc., with the Community Partner Award for its vital role in public safety and event logistics, including ensuring seamless communication for Coralville RAGBRAI and other community events.
  • Royceann Porter took home the Founder Award for her tireless advocacy in social justice, affordable housing and workers’ rights, as well as her leadership during the pandemic and ongoing contributions to the community.
  • Sunday Goshit, Brady G’Sell, and the entire AfricaFest Planning Committee received the Catalyst Award for launching AfricaFest, an event that showcases African culture and heritage while fostering cross-cultural engagement and community building.

Two new awards were unveiled during the ceremony that recognized achievements in innovation and education. The Innovation in Education Awards introduced:

  • The Inspire Award, which acknowledged the Lone Tree Community School District for their commitment to small-class learning environments, student-centered education, and fostering community-driven academic excellence.
  • The Early Childhood Innovation Award, which honored 4Cs and HomeTies for their groundbreaking childcare apprenticeship program, strengthening the early childhood workforce and ensuring quality care for Johnson County families.

Rounding out the evening were the Sizzle Awards:

  • Representative Leadership went to the North Liberty Youth Council for engaging high school students in civic leadership and community service, fostering the next generation of local leaders.
  • Collaboration Award honored Greater Iowa City Home Builders Association and Iowa City Climate Action & Outreach for their joint efforts in developing the HERS energy efficiency grant program, promoting sustainable homebuilding and climate-conscious development.
  • Growth Mindset Award recognized X Marks the Arts for its collaborative efforts in uniting arts organizations and activating public spaces, reinforcing Iowa City’s status as a leading cultural hub. X Marks the Arts includes over 15 local arts and culture organizations, including the University of Iowa.

“These awardees represent the very best of Johnson County – leaders and organizations who turn vision into action,” Ms. Gerlach said in a release. “Their work inspires all of us to think bigger, collaborate more deeply, and keep striving for a future where every member of our community has the opportunity to thrive. Their leadership and innovation will continue to shape our region for years to come.”

The evening was sponsored from Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, The Heights Rooftop, and the Iowa Heartlanders. Greater Iowa City, Inc., Think Iowa City, Iowa City Downtown District and South of 6 also supported the event, which was also supported through partnerships with the Community Foundation of Johnson County and United Way of Johnson and Washington Counties.

To learn more about All in Vision, check out bt2030.org.