Rotary Club of Des Moines AM

Next Chapter Retirement Group Meeting
2026-06-12 08:00 - 09:00 (America/Chicago) | Goodwill of Central Iowa, 5355 NW 86th St, Johnston, IA, 50131, United States
DMAM Next Chapter Retirement Group Meeting
When: Second Friday of each month, following the regular Rotary meeting
Where: Wakonda Bar Goodwill of Central IA Headquarters in Johnston
Who: Retirees, those considering retirement, and anyone with stories or advice to share
Join us for an informal and engaging discussion on planning for and living a fulfilling retirement. New topics each month! Stay after the Rotary meeting to connect, share, and learn from others navigating the next chapter of life

DMAM Club Board Meeting (Rescheduled)
2026-06-12 08:00 - 09:00 | Goodwill of Central Iowa, 5355 NW 86th St, Johnston, IA, 50131, United States
Des Moines A.M. Rotary Board meeting to follow the regular Rotary Meeting. This meeting has been moved from 6/19 to 6/12, at the Goodwill of Central IA Headquarters in Johnston.

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

Incoming Board Information Session
2026-06-05 08:00 - 20:30 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Please stop by the Blue View room after the regular Rotary meeting to receive your onboarding packet for RY 2026-2027 and instructions for the DMAM Board Retreat later in the month.

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.

International Service Committee Meeting
2026-05-29 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
In the Blue View room at Wakonda Club.

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

Kerri Johannsen is the Senior Director of Policy and Programs with the Iowa Environmental Council, providing strategic oversight and advocacy strategy across the Council’s Energy, Climate Initiatives, and Water Programs. She has two decades of experience in energy and environmental policy and has previously served as the Council’s Energy Program Director as well as Manager of Government Affairs. Kerri previously served as professional staff with the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee, administered the Iowa Power Fund for innovative clean energy projects, and worked as an analyst and Legislative Liaison with the Iowa Utilities Commission before joining the Council in 2016. Kerri was a visiting researcher with the Florence School of Regulation in Florence, Italy, in the summer of 2024. She has a B.A. from Gustavus Adolphus College and a Master’s in Public Policy from the Humphrey Institute at the University of Minnesota.
Adam Shriver joined The Harkin Institute as a research fellow in 2021, working on a Kellogg Foundation grant to create a “good food plan” for the state of Iowa. He took on the role of Interim Director of Wellness and Nutrition Policy in 2022, which includes organizing the annual Harkin On Wellness Symposium. He previously worked as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the School of Population and Public Health at the University of British Columbia, and a Research Fellow at the Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities at Oxford University. Adam has also taught courses on biomedical ethics, the ethics of food, and ethics of artificial intelligence at Drake University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Iowa State University as well as a Ph.D. from the Philosophy-Neuroscience-Psychology program at Washington University in St. Louis.

Founder's Day: OFF SITE MEETINGS
2026-05-22 07:00 - 08:00
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.

Lunch & Link
2026-05-20 12:00 - 13:00 | RDG Planning & Design, 301 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
When: Wednesday, May 20th | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Where: RDG Planning & Design, Member Hosts: Phil Hodgin and Cory Scott
301 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
What to Bring: Your own lunch!

What is “Lunch & Link”?
Think of this as a “Vocational Day Lite.” We want to make these socials
accessible and easy for everyone. There is no set agenda—just good food,
great company, and a chance to catch up. Bring your favorite sandwich and
your best stories!
DMAM Member Relations Committee

DMAM Club Board Meeting
2026-05-15 08:00 - 09:00, 2026-04-17 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Des Moines A.M. Rotary Board meeting to follow the regular Rotary Meeting.

Connection Cafe
2026-05-15 08:00 - 09:00, 2026-04-17 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Join us! Club volunteers are needed every third Friday following the regular Rotary meeting to make sandwiches for The Connection Cafe.

The Connection Cafe serves lunch five days a week to homeless and low income individuals and families in downtown Des Moines.
Learn more at their website https://theconnectioncafe.org/.

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.

Next Chapter Retirement Group Meeting
2026-05-08 08:00 - 09:00, 2026-04-10 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
DMAM Next Chapter Retirement Group Meeting
When: Second Friday of each month, following the regular Rotary meeting
Where: Wakonda Bar
Who: Retirees, those considering retirement, and anyone with stories or advice to share
Join us for an informal and engaging discussion on planning for and living a fulfilling retirement. New topics each month! Stay after the Rotary meeting to connect, share, and learn from others navigating the next chapter of life

DMAM Foundation Board Meeting
2026-05-08 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Des Moines A.M. Rotary Quarterly Foundation Board Meeting to follow the regular Rotary Meeting.

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.

Member Relations Social: Pelican Post
2026-05-07 16:00 - 18:00 | Pelican Post, 265 50th St, West Des Moines, IA, 50265, United States
Join us for the next Member Relations get together on Thursday, May 7th from 4-6pm at Pelican Post, 265 50th Street in West Des Moines!
Please direct questions to the event host, Tony Schmalz: tonys@tmservices.net

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.

Next Generation Committee Meeting
2026-04-24 08:00 - 09:00 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
The Next Generation Committee Meeting chaired by Janet Witte will meet at 8am following the regular Rotary meeting in the Wakonda Club Bar area.
Please reach out to Janet with questions: wittej_dsm@yahoo.com

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.

Book Club: Back Roads Lounge
2026-04-17 16:00 - 18:00 | Back Roads Lounge, 8460 Birchwood Ct, Ste 900, Johnston, IA, 50131, United States
APRIL Book Club meeting will be held this Friday the 17th starting at 4 PM at Back Roads Lounge at 8460 Birchwood Court Suite 900, Johnston, IA (east of Raising Canes Chicken Fingers). We are starting a new tradition this month. There will be a “Book Box” where Rotarians can place a voluntary cash donation (cost of one refreshment?) that we will collect and accumulate until end of the year when the amount collected will be donated to Capitol View Elementary to purchase books!!!

Darrell L. Smith
Book Club Maestro

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.

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.

Habitat for Humanity Build Day
2026-04-10
Friday, April 10th (time/location TBA). Volunteers assist with framing, siding, flooring, trimming, painting, installing doors and windows, landscaping and more! No experience is needed.
Sign Up Here
Questions? Contact Anupam Mittra at anupam.mittra@gmail.com.

DMAM Rotary Home Socials
2026-04-10
Join us on Friday, April 10th, for a special hosted social. Several of our members are opening their homes for an evening of fellowship.
Specific times and addresses will be sent to attendees closer to the date.
A huge thank you to our generous hosts!

Missed the sign up? Contact Ryan Newton at ryan@ssb.bank or 563-451-6822.

A Neighbor's Breakfast: Iowa Homeless Youth Shelter
2026-04-08 08:00 - 09:00 | Iowa Homeless Youth Shelter, 612 Locust St, Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Wednesday, April 8th (8-9am) at 612 Locust St. Des Moines, IA 50309. Help us end youth homelessness in our community. This annual breakfast is free to attend, because the mission isn’t just about a meal—it’s about showing up for our young people.
Impact: view Fritz’s story here.
Sign Up Link

Trash Talk: 42nd Street Cleanup
2026-04-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Des Moines Community Playhouse, 831 42nd St, Des Moines, IA, 50312, United States
Volunteer to clean up our adopted street! Meet at Des Moines Community Playhouse, 831 42nd St, Des Moines, IA 50312. The 42nd Street cleanup runs from I-235 to Kingman Blvd. Gloves and bags provided. Drinks after at the Library Cafe, 3506 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311.
Sign Up Here

New Member Orientation Session
2026-04-03 08:00 - 08:40 | Wakonda Club, 3915 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA, 50321, United States
Join us for our New Member Orientation immediately following our regular Rotary meeting. In just 40 minutes, you’ll gain valuable insight into Rotary, our Club, and all the benefits of your membership. You’ll also meet fellow new members, our New Member Committee, and Board members—making Friday mornings even more welcoming! We’ll gather in the Blue View room, just off the main meeting area.
Email Judy Ralston-Hansen at jamrhansen@gmail.com to let us know you’ll be there!
