Robert Cramer, Board of Regents President
2026-04-03 07:00 - 08:00 (America/Chicago) | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Iowa’s Public Universities

Robert Cramer, after growing up outside of West Des Moines, moved to Johnston for his high school years. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Construction Engineering and went on to become a Licensed Professional Engineer in 1996.
Cramer served as Co-President of Cramer and Associates, Inc., a family-owned and employee-owned bridge construction company, until January 1, 2022. At that time, he stepped away from the bridge side of the business and now works as Vice President of Land Development. While Co-President, Cramer oversaw engineering, estimating, accounting, safety, human resources, and risk management. Now, he serves as Co-Chair of the Cramer board and is overseeing their large land development in Adel and a smaller one in Altoona.
Cramer is on the Industry Advisory Council for the Construction Engineering Department at Iowa State University and is on the statewide STEM Advisory Board. He served as President of the Associated General Contractors of Iowa (AGC) in 2010, was a member of their Board of Directors for eight years, and continues to serve the AGC as liaison to the Iowa Department of Transportation. He served nine years on the Johnston Community School Board as well as serving on several boards of non-profits including his church.
One such board was Blessman International. Cramer’s sister and brother-in-law run the ministry in South Africa which now feeds several million “Meals From The Heartland” per year to children in need. He also served on the board of The Family Leader and on the Advisory Board of Starts Right Here, Will Keeps’ non-profit that is helping kids from the streets get back in school and graduate.
He and his wife, Lori, have two adult children and opened their home to foster children for nine years. They took care of over 20 kids during that time.
He was appointed to the Board by Governor Reynolds on March 3, 2023, with his term beginning on May 1. His term expires on April 30, 2029. He was elected President of the Board with his term beginning December 4, 2025.

Matt McIver, Executive Director
2026-04-10 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
You Are The Message

Matthew McIver is Executive Director at the Iowa Cultural Coalition and a renowned communicator. Matt has experience in directing, stage and screen acting, writing original work, and public speaking/presentations. He is the founder of McIver Communications, a strategic storytelling, coaching and consulting firm focused on teaching business leaders on influence and strategic communications.

David Oppedahl, Chicago Federal Reserve
2026-04-17 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Chicago Federal Reserve Remarks on the Economy

David Oppedahl is a policy advisor on the regional research and engagement team at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Oppedahl conducts research on the agricultural sector and rural development, as well as analyzing business conditions and the regional economy. He directs the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s survey of agricultural banks on agricultural land values and credit conditions and publishes the results in AgLetter—the Chicago Fed’s quarterly agricultural publication. In addition to his research, he monitors the regional economy through roundtables and other contacts, briefs senior staff on the agricultural economy, and organizes the annual Agriculture Conference.
Before starting his career at the Chicago Fed as an associate economist in 1998, Oppedahl was a consultant in the economic research department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. While at the Dallas Fed, he provided research support in econometrics.
Oppedahl received a B.S. in mathematics from Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois, and an M.S. in statistics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He also completed graduate-level course work in economics while attending Southern Methodist University.

Rotarians Telling Their Stories: Dan Montgomery & Chris Nebons
2026-04-24 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Dan Montgomery: A Different Kind of Normal: Life in Rural Alaska
Chris Nebons: From Forced Labor to the Lunar Lander – The Neboshynskys’ Coming to America

Each of us has at least one great story to tell. Join us in hearing as Dan & Chris, two Des Moines AM Rotary members, share their stories in our Friday morning meeting.

FIFA Panel Discussion - Ozzie White, Trina Flack, Dan Cataldi
2026-05-01 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Daryn “Ozzie” White is a soccer professional with over four decades of experience spanning professional playing, elite coaching, and executive club leadership across the world. A former professional player and captain of the Australian Youth Schoolboys National Team, Daryn transitioned into coaching and administration, earning the United Soccer Coaches Master Coach Diploma and the USSF ‘A’ License. As a TV commentator for Mediacom and Fox Soccer Channel, published author for World Class Coaching, and producer of seven audiovisual coaching productions, he has made an impact on the sport far beyond the pitch.
Dan Cataldi is the CEO of the Iowa Soccer Association, where he oversees sanctioned youth and adult soccer across the state. Before transitioning to sports leadership, Dan held senior roles at the American Red Cross in disaster response and fund development. An elite former referee, he has officiated at every level—from Iowa high school state championships to professional and international friendlies. A dedicated fan of the beautiful game, Dan has followed the US Men’s National Team to World Cups in both Brazil and Qatar.
Trina Flack is the President & CEO of Catch Des Moines, where she has been instrumental in securing major events like the NCAA Men’s Basketball Rounds, IRONMAN North American Championships, and the Dew Tour. An Iowa State MBA graduate, Trina is a fierce advocate for community investment, serving on the American Planning Association board and the City of Ankeny Planning and Zoning Commission. When she isn’t championing the region, she’s likely cheering for the Cyclones, running, or spending time with her husband and three children.

Lance Henning, CEO
2026-05-08 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Habitat for Humanity

Lance Henning serves as the President and Executive Director of Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity since December 2003, overseeing efforts to build homes and communities across Dallas, Jasper, and Polk counties. Prior to this role, Lance held the position of Executive Director at Northland Habitat for Humanity from 1998 to 2003 and worked as an Environmental Associate at MRIGlobal between 1992 and 1998. Lance began a career in service as a Volunteer in the Peace Corps from 1989 to 1991. Educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science from Iowa State University, a Master of Science from the University of Kansas, a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University, and completion of the Executive Education program in Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management from Harvard Business School.

Michael LaValle
2026-05-15 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
The Many Lives of Michael LaValle

Michael Lavalle is one of Des Moines’ most interesting people and entrepreneurs – covering topics such as reimagining the rivers of Des Moines; Des Moines’ first celebrity chef; what’s up with the new Atlas; senior games 100-meter dash winner; aging and CBDs; or sustainable wine concepts.
Michael looks forward to reconnecting with many of us he knows and has fed over the years.

Founder's Day: OFF SITE MEETINGS
2026-05-22 07:00 - 08:00 | IA
Sign Up Below!

We’re looking forward to hosting our next Founders Day on May 22, 2026! Please RSVP by Friday, May 15, to give our hosts enough time to plan accordingly. Below is a preview of what to expect at each location. We’re looking forward to a great morning celebrating our member businesses together!

Founders Day RSVP

Iowa Coalition for Public Charter Schools / Des Moines Prep Host: Mike Huguelet
95 E 5th St, Des Moines, IA
The Iowa Coalition for Public Charter Schools (ICPCS) supports the growth of high-quality, tuition-free public charter schools across Iowa, expanding innovative educational opportunities for students and families statewide. ICPCS is proud to host its Founders Day event at Des Moines Prep – the newest public charter school in Des Moines and part of Iowa’s growing movement to provide more personalized, college- and career-focused learning options for students.

Des Moines Prep opened in August of 2025 as a school focused on excellence and joy, where students develop the skills and values necessary to lead with ambition and purpose. Our small high school size means every student is known and supported enough to be challenged by a rigorous and dynamic learning environment.
Please join us for a 25 minute presentation and a 25 minute tour of the facility.

Pennie Carroll Real Estate Host: Pennie Carroll
3232 Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines IA
Pennie Carroll Real Estate is a locally rooted real estate firm known for its personalized approach, community connections, and welcoming atmosphere. Pennie Carroll hosts Founders Day in its uniquely renovated 1900s four-square home, transformed into a warm and inviting office and small event space. This offers a refreshing alternative to the typical corporate venue and reflects the character and charm of the community it serves.
Please join us for a breakfast catered from Great Caterers, serving a hot breakfast and pastries!

Group Benefits Ltd. Host: Chris Haviland
12006 Ridgemont Dr, Urbandale
Group Benefits Ltd. (GBL) is Iowa’s largest general agency, supporting independent insurance agents across the Midwest with trusted resources, expertise, and service-driven partnerships. Founded on integrity and a commitment to doing the right thing, GBL is proud to host Founders Day on May 22nd, bringing together community and business leaders to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and impact across Iowa.
Please join us for a discussion on how we engage our agents and why we do what we do, as well as a discussion on early retirement and key considerations to think about before turning 65.

Adam Shriver & Kerri Johannsen
2026-05-29 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Iowa’s Cancer Crisis
Harkin Institute & Iowa Environmental Council

Details TBA

Aaron Krueger & Alex McCarty
2026-06-05 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
History of Wakonda Club & PCC

Aaron Krueger is in his sixteenth season at Wakonda Club in 2026. He was named General Manager of Wakonda Club in March. Aaron is originally from Fulton, Illinois and is a graduate of the University of Iowa, where he competed on the men’s golf team. He became a Class A PGA Member in 2007 and has been the host PGA Professional for the Principal Charity Classic every year it has been held at Wakonda Club, since 2013. Aaron served as the President of the Iowa PGA in 2017-2019 and was the 2008 & 2013 Iowa PGA Section Champion. He was recognized as the 2017 Iowa PGA Golf Professional of the Year and the 2019 Iowa Golf Association PGA Professional of the Year. He has competed in the 2019 and 2014 John Deere Classic on the PGA Tour and in a major championship, the 2014 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club. Aaron is a member of the PGA of America’s national Board of Directors and will chair the PGA Tournaments and Member Championships Committee. Aaron and his wife Tonya live in Norwalk. They have one daughter, Lydia, who just concluded her freshman year studying Graphic Design at Iowa State University.
Alex McCarty is the Tournament Director of the Principal Charity Classic in Des Moines, Iowa, where he leads all aspects of the PGA TOUR Champions event, including sales, marketing, operations, and strategic growth. Under his leadership, the tournament has achieved record-breaking success, raising more than $10.6 million for Iowa youth charities in 2025 and earning the prestigious PGA TOUR Champions President’s Award for excellence in execution, fan experience, and community impact. Prior to his current role, McCarty served as Sales Director and Assistant Tournament Director for the Principal Charity Classic. He has also held leadership roles with Eventive Sports on several premier events, including the 2018 and 2021 BMW Championship, the 2020 U.S. Senior Open Championship, and the Lincoln Land Charity Championship. His early career includes roles with the Iowa Cubs, and University of Minnesota athletics. Born and raised in Prescott, IA and a graduate of Simpson College, McCarty resides in Urbandale with his wife, Meridith, and their three children, Charlee Ann, Hayes, and Lillian.

OFFSITE: DMAM Rotary at Goodwill
2026-06-12 07:00 - 08:00 | Goodwill of Central Iowa, 5355 NW 86th St, Johnston, IA, 50131, United States
TBA

TBA

DMAM Founders Panel
2026-06-19 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States

Exit Meeting: President Zach Bouslog
2026-06-26 07:00 - 08:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
