Greater Iowa City Inc. held an event Sept. 3 at Walker Homestead, 3867 James Ave. in southwest Iowa City, to mark the 35th anniversary of its Community Leadership Program, which has graduated more than 800 participants since 1990.
Alumni, sponsors and community leaders attended the gathering, with many program graduates now holding positions across Johnson County in business, nonprofit and government sectors.
“The Community Leadership Program has always been about more than leadership training. It is about deepening relationships, understanding the needs of our region, and investing in leaders who will shape the future of our community,” said Nancy Bird, president of Greater Iowa City Inc.
The program has also served as a springboard for community institutions. The Community Foundation of Johnson County, founded in 2000, originated as a project of the leadership program. Over the last 25 years, the foundation has raised more than $100 million in community investments and philanthropy.
“When I first arrived in Johnson County, CLP was one of the first programs I joined. It helped me find my place here, build lasting relationships, and better understand how our community works. That experience continues to inspire the work we do at CFJC by investing in people, partnerships, and opportunities that make Johnson County stronger for everyone,” said Shelly Maharry, president and CEO of the foundation and a program alumna.
Among the alumni are several city councilors and elected officials, who credited their role in civic leadership to the program, which served as a springboard for public service.
“This milestone is a celebration of our alumni, our partners, and the shared vision that leadership is a community effort,” said Mackenzie DeRoo, senior director of advocacy at Greater Iowa City Inc.
The Community Foundation of Johnson County and RSM sponsored the anniversary event.
The program selects 25 participants annually for daylong sessions covering topics including health care, education, economic development and the arts.
