African American Leadership Forum-Des Moines

BUPs and AALA Alumni from all classes... we're back to explore new spaces and skills. Bring a friend and bring the energy to our Kickback at Elevation Golf Club on 9/30. Meet new folks, share updates on your ventures, and get golf pointers from a pro. Business cards optional, connections essential!

Meet The Directors Council's New Interim Executive Director…A Familiar Face

Dr. Marvin L. DeJear, Jr. is stepping into his new role as Interim Executive Director of The Directors Council, but he’s certainly no stranger to TDC or our community.

As the most recent Chair of TDC, Dr. DeJear already knows our mission, our members, our partners and the issues that matter most to the Greater Des Moines community.

Now, he’s bringing more than 20 years of executive leadership experience and a deep commitment to economic opportunity, workforce development and community impact to help lead TDC into its next chapter.

We’re excited about what’s ahead!

Get to know more about Dr. DeJear, the leadership transition and the future of The Directors Council which includes the African American Leadership Institute in Des Moines:

👉 Read the full announcement:https://d52acf30-0a19-4d38-9f0f-a7fd89598ddf.filesusr.com/ugd/5914b7_3c3aeb2208fe449bb4d8edc329e78200.pdf

-BUP/DSM

This is exactly why African American Leadership Forum-Des Moines exists! Watching alumni return as partners, employers, mentors and changemakers is the greatest measure of impact for us.

If you haven’t already, stop by and support 24K Juicing beautiful downtown location.

We can’t wait to see what’s next.

Congratulations Abena Sankofa!

Congratulations to Kourtney Perry on being named Woman Business Owner of the Year!

Your leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence continue to make our community proud. As an African American Leadership Academy alumna, you exemplify the power of investing in Black leadership and entrepreneurship. We celebrate this incredible achievement and look forward to all that’s ahead for you.

Congratulations to African American Leadership Forum-Des Moines alumni Rae Luna on her acceptance into Lead DSM Community Connect!

❤️Join us on Monday, February 9 beginning at 5pm for good times with great people!
Meet us at Palm's DSM to enjoy the vibe, refreshments, music, games + prizes. Cash bar.
❤️RSVP to save your spot and as always, bring a friend who needs this!

We are proud to unveil The Directors Council 2026 Advocacy Agenda.

This agenda reflects the voices, experiences, and priorities of our community and outlines how we are advancing policies that strengthen opportunity, stability, and equity across our state and local systems.

We believe informed communities build stronger systems. That is why TDC will continue to provide education, updates, and engagement opportunities throughout this legislative session and beyond.

Check back often to stay informed, stay engaged, and take action alongside us.

https://www.tdcdsm.org/advocacy-agenda-2026 for more information on our advocacy agenda.

Apply today for AALA! Applications are open for the 2026 African American Leadership Program. This 9-month development opportunity is designed for Black professionals who are ready to build skills and develop alongside a cohort committed to uplifing community in Central Iowa. Find the application form here: https://forms.gle/QUwthYJudjRA5915A