9 Tracks Representing Key Topics in Iowa
One of the greatest values identified by past conference attendees is the variety of topics and issues represented throughout, encouraging attendees to build a personalized experience based on unique Iowa interests. Iowa Ideas has identified nine key areas (“tracks”) for the 2021 program.
Community Development
Strategies to build, maintain, and grow the unique communities throughout the state.
Education
Practices and dynamics of the classic learning environment with the realities of future learning.
Energy and Environment
Efficient, sustainable solutions for future generations.
Health Care
The landscape of the healthcare system in the state of Iowa. Needs moving forward for all demographics, including access.
Human and Social Services
For an individual to be their best self, a holistic look at resources required, along with the structure challenges and opportunities for providers to thrive.
Infrastructure
The structural elements of rural and urban Iowa for connectivity and effectiveness.
Policy
The latest issues positioned to drive big change.
Workforce
Employer and employee perspectives on trends and issues among key industries.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Building a culture that allows to learn from each other and strive for systematic change.
Conference Schedule • October 14 - 15, 2021
Filter sessions:
| Time | Community Development | Education | Energy and Environment | Health Care | Human and Social Services | Infrastructure | Policy | Workforce |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday Schedule | ||||||||
| 8:30AM |
David Gould
8:30AM
David Gould
Panelists:
David Gould (Visiting Associate Professor, University of Iowa)
Keynote with David Gould, Visiting Associate Professor, University of Iowa: How to Live a Consequential Life. As we slowly emerge from the pandemic fog, identifying direction for our lives will be crucial. What role does design, story, and the wisdom of our elders play in the process, and how can this realization help us fashion the world we want to live in?
Track: Keynote Sessions
171
|
|||||||
| 9:15AM |
Outdated Systems in Housing (DEI Session)
9:15AM
Outdated Systems in Housing (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Eric Burmeister (Polk County Housing Trust Fund), Sara Barron (ED Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition), Ali Parrish (Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity)
Beyond the surreal world of the slumlord, how have we come to accept the outdated expectations when it comes to renting or purchasing a home? This session will address outdated systems such as credit scores, redlining, and other access issues that prevent Iowans from secure housing.
Track: Community Development
172
|
Lower College Enrollments
9:15AM
Lower College Enrollments
Panelists:
Mark Wiederspan (Iowa College Aid), Sally Johnstone (National Center for Higher Education Management Systems), Eric Kelderman (Chronicle of Higher Education Reporter)
For reasons as wide as pandemic to fewer college age students, Iowa's colleges are seeing lower enrollments across the system. How will schools adjust to this trend? Are the declines wider than expected?
Track: Education
173
|
Iowa's Water Supply with Ag Runoff Strategies
9:15AM
Iowa's Water Supply with Ag Runoff Strategies
Panelists:
Chris Jones (University of Iowa), Michael Schmidt (IEC), John Norwood (Polk County Soil and Water Conservation)
With the state’s largest water provider expressing concern about being able to meet demand if a drought and toxic algae bloom persists, what is the status of the state's water supply? What does this mean for industry and for drinking water? What's the health of the state's groundwater system and how much is going into the treatment of our water system? This session will look at the various runoff strategies, what can be done to see wider adoption, and if programs should remain voluntary or need to be mandated.
Track: Energy and Environment
174
|
Assessing Public Health
9:15AM
Assessing Public Health
Panelists:
Chris Estle (Jefferson County Public Health), Keith Mueller (UI College of Public Health), Lina Tucker Reinders (Iowa Public Health Association)
The COVID-19 pandemic challenged public health departments in truly unique ways. Whether it's staffing, or providing data and battling misinformation, what has been learned to improve the public health response now and in future health care crisis?
Track: Health Care
175
|
The Impact of the Pandemic on Iowa Youth
9:15AM
The Impact of the Pandemic on Iowa Youth
Panelists:
Allison Bruhn (Mental Health Center at University of Iowa), Andrew Allen (YSS), Emily Blomme (Foundation 2)
Studies support that the generation most negatively impacted by the derecho are youth ages 12-25. How has the pandemic had negative impact on social and behavioral development, peer to peer relationships, and beyond? Is there positive elements we can build upon to help balance the consequences?
Track: Human and Social Services
176
|
Iowa's Electrical Vehicle Infrastructure
9:15AM
Iowa's Electrical Vehicle Infrastructure
Panelists:
MK Anderson (Iowa EDA), Daniel Bissell (City of Iowa CIty Regional), Matt Ott (MidAmerican), Brad Petersen (Kum and Go)
How is Iowa supporting growing consumer interest in electric vehicles? What challenges remain in license, registration and access to this rising industry? This session will address history, current demand and plans for future growth.
Track: Infrastructure
177
|
Bills and Individual Rights (DEI Session)
9:15AM
Bills and Individual Rights (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Kennan Crow (One Iowa), Gabriela Fuentes (Planned Parenthood)
Several bills were put forth in this year's legislative session that put individual rights at risk. Whether it was the protest ban, the education/ diversity training or the transgender bans, these bills have impacts on the future of the state. What is Iowa doing to address future risk?
Track: Policy
178
|
Help Wanted: Job Market vs Demand
9:15AM
Help Wanted: Job Market vs Demand
Panelists:
Kate Pine (Iowa WORKS), Mike Ralston (Iowa Association of Business and Industy), Ron Cox (CIRAS)
Unemployment rates are up, job demand remains down. How has the end of federal unemployment benefits factored into the balance? What industries and what positions are facing the biggest recruitment drought? Who are we targeting for recruitment, and what's in it for these prospective employees?
Track: Workforce
179
|
| 10:30AM |
A Fresh Look at Community
10:30AM
A Fresh Look at Community
Panelists:
Jeff Speck (City Planner), Sarah Grunewaldt (Main Street Iowa), Jason Neises (Heart and Soul Program)
"Back to normal" is simply not in the cards when it comes to the elements of a community. How should we redefine a successful community? This session will discuss community assets such as local governance, culture, connectivity, neighborhoods, amenities and more.
Track: Community Development
180
|
Controversial Topics in Education (DEI Session)
10:30AM
Controversial Topics in Education (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Laura Gray (Iowa City Schools), Dr. Ruth White (Academy of Scholastic and Personal Success), Annette Duncan (Waterloo School District)
The last legislative session had significant discussion about legislating curriculum. One much discussed was the 1619 Project, which was spearheaded by an Iowa native. Also happening in session-bills were passed protecting Freedom of Speech on campus. How do you navigate around these seemingly conflicting stances and what does it mean in terms of helping people learn all perspectives?
Track: Education
181
|
Carbon Sequestration/Future of Ethanol and RFS
10:30AM
Carbon Sequestration/Future of Ethanol and RFS
Panelists:
Adam Kiel (Iowa Soybean Association), Ben Gleason (Iowa Corn Growers), Steve Falck (Environmental Law & Policy Center), John Thompson (Clean Air Task Force)
A few benefits of carbon sequestration programs are starting to pay out for Iowa farmers. What are the environmental benefits, and what are farmers learning? This session will review a few pilot programs with carbon sequestration and Iowa Soybean farmers while considering long-term viability of ethanol as a renewable fuel standard. The stakes for Iowa are significant as the Biden administration considers a significantly different future energy plan.
Track: Energy and Environment
182
|
In Home Caregiver Accountability
10:30AM
In Home Caregiver Accountability
Panelists:
Di Findley (Iowa CareGivers Association), Jo Kline (Patient or Pawn), Eugenia Kendall (Iowa Department of Aging Services)
As life transitions us to rely on others to complete daily tasks, remain safe and prioritize healthy living, the role of the caregiver becomes critical. From family members to professional staff, what structures and guidelines will ensure the best quality of care and quality of life? When and how does a pattern of misconduct warrant action, and who upholds the consequences?
Track: Health Care
183
|
Beyond Extremes for Youth Services
10:30AM
Beyond Extremes for Youth Services
Panelists:
Tony Wilson (Community Hope and Transformation), Amy Doerrfeld (ASAC), Maggie Hartzler (Tanager Place)
Options for youth enduring behavioral and mental health challenges have historically had a limited range in solution. The extreme of crisis requiring hospitalization or nothing is a limited line of options that can run risk of heightening or dismissing an issue if left untreated. How are Iowa's youth advocates stepping up to provide a wide range of options for youth and their families?
Track: Human and Social Services
184
|
Safeguarding Critical Infrastructure
10:30AM
Safeguarding Critical Infrastructure
Panelists:
Robert Davis (City of Cedar Rapids Public Works Dept), Bernard Dutchik (ImOn), Casey Greene (UnityPoint-St.Luke's Hospital)
When building for the future, are we considering all scenarios? Intentional design and development that will respond to needs such as critical power, sewage systems, and more can make all the difference in times of crisis. How do we plan and protect for future response?
Track: Infrastructure
230
|
Voting and Redistricting
10:30AM
Voting and Redistricting
Panelists:
Travis Weipert (Johnson County), Terese Grant (Iowa League of Women Voters), Alan Ostergren (Ostergren Law)
Look in greater detail about changes passed in Iowa’s voting election, to the portions not addressed (recounts), as well as where the state stands in the legislative redistricting process that’s undertaken every 10 years. What does the map look like and what will be areas to watch going forward?
Track: Policy
186
|
Protecting Workers
10:30AM
Protecting Workers
Panelists:
Joe Henry (Iowa LULAC), Joe Melton (Construction Safety Specialists, Inc.)
What critical structures and process will guide a safe, successful workplace and protect the employees within? What are the biggest concerns from employees, and how are employers working through optimal solutions?
Track: Workforce
187
|
| 11:30AM |
Lunch
11:30AM
Lunch
Panelists:
Track: Featured Speakers
236
|
|||||||
| 12:30PM |
Featured Speaker: Kelly Garcia, Iowa Department of Human Services, Iowa Department of Public Health
12:30PM
Featured Speaker: Kelly Garcia, Iowa Department of Human Services, Iowa Department of Public Health
Panelists:
Kelly Garcia (Iowa Department of Human Services, Iowa Department of Public Health)
A Q&A led by The Gazette's Zack Kucharski.
Track: Featured Speakers
189
|
|||||||
| 1:15PM |
Featured Speaker: Governor Kim Reynolds
1:15PM
Featured Speaker: Governor Kim Reynolds
Panelists:
Governor Kim Reynolds
An interview and audience Q&A facilitated by The Gazette's Zack Kucharski.
Track: Featured Speakers
233
|
|||||||
| 2:00PM |
New Life in a Tired Space
2:00PM
New Life in a Tired Space
Panelists:
Jack Hatch (Hatch Development), Marty Dougherty (Sioux City Economic Development), Michael Kiernan, Dale Todd (Hatch Development)
How can a space defined as tired qualify as a strong candidate for second- chance brick and mortar success? A future forward look with review of successful projects along with the opportunities and challenges through TIFF incentives.
Track: Community Development
190
|
The Future of Higher Education
2:00PM
The Future of Higher Education
Panelists:
Jonathan Brand (Cornell College), Michael Ash (Southeastern Community College), Barbara Wilson (University of Iowa), Rick Torres (National Student Clearninghouse)
A reprise to the conversations hosted during the March Iowa Ideas March In-Depth Week. What is the future of higher education through the lens of public, private, university and community college?
Track: Education
191
|
Open
2:00PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Energy and Environment
|
Keeping Rural Care Centers Financially Viable
2:00PM
Keeping Rural Care Centers Financially Viable
Panelists:
Aaron Todd (Iowa Primary Care Association), Steve Simonin (Iowa Specialist Hospitals Clarion), Mark Holmes (University of North Carolina)
The COVID-19 stimulus funds were seen as a temporary fix for many hospitals facing mounting financial pressures. What are long-term realistic financial pathways for Iowa hospitals? What could short and long term improvements mean for access to care in rural communities?
Track: Health Care
193
|
Going Without: Relief, Recovery and Access to Information (DEI Session)
2:00PM
Going Without: Relief, Recovery and Access to Information (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Linda Gorkow (Iowa Food Bank Association), Joshua Barr (Raising the Barr), Ashley Bailus (Linn County), Stacy Kimberlin (CultureALL)
Challenges accessing one critical resource can quickly impact the entire existance of an individual or family. When and how can human service agencies intervene to ensure one issue does not escalate? How can a service organization go beyond the triage of one need and encourage a complete needs assessment? Is it possible for community resources to support their clients by collaborating and offering referrals? What creative solutions should be leveraged to ensure access to resources and information is available to all in times of crisis?
Track: Human and Social Services
194
|
A Focus on Cargo
2:00PM
A Focus on Cargo
Panelists:
Marty Lenss (Cedar Rapids Airport), Craig Markley (Iowa DOT), Michael Gannon (CRST International)
The movement of cargo in and out of Eastern Iowa is a crucial -- and growing -- market. The number of people seeking to have items delivered direct to home grew significantly during the COVID pandemic, and is a shift that isn't expected to end soon. This session will talk about why Iowa is seeing significant cargo growth, how it supports Eastern Iowa and how much more growth can we expect to see.
Track: Infrastructure
195
|
Changes in Criminal Justice Procedures (DEI Session)
2:00PM
Changes in Criminal Justice Procedures (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Betty Andrews (NAACP), Tahir Duckett (Georgetown University), Pete McRoberts (ACLU)
What has been the result of racial and social justice protests in the wake of the George Floyd murder within police departments? How about The Linn County Marijuana Deferral Program, training partnerships with Georgetown and probable cause changes meant in police work? Meanwhile, racial profiling legislation went nowhere in the legislature this year…..what work still needs to be done?
Track: Policy
196
|
Apprenticeships
2:00PM
Apprenticeships
Panelists:
Lori Wildman (Alliant Energy), Michael Sadler (Plumbers and Pipefitters), Dane Sulentic (Iowa Department of Correction)
Hands on learning that compliments classroom study continues to grow across a variety of Iowa industries and trades. What parts of the apprenticeship experience are most directly connected to employer recruitment, retention and advancement? What’s next for Iowa strategies and partnerships?
Track: Workforce
197
|
| 3:10PM |
A City by City Role in the Broadband Gap
3:10PM
A City by City Role in the Broadband Gap
Panelists:
Dave Duncan (Iowa Communication Alliance), Kevin Cabbage (Farmers Mutal Telephone Company), Kent Van Metre (FG), Chris Hopp (Alpine Communications)
The pandemic surfaced the very real digital divide in broadband that continues to challenge millions of individuals today. How can communities collaborate to address the biggest connectivity hurdles?
Track: Community Development
198
|
Charter Schools
3:10PM
Charter Schools
Panelists:
Margaret Buckton (Urban Education Network of Iowa), Steve Milder (West Central Community School District), Reaching Higher Iowa
Changes to what it takes to open charter schools were passed in this year's legislation, with laws allowing a private group to apply to the State Board of Education to open a new charter school. What are next steps? This session will also consider a voucher bill that was introduced but did not get through chambers this year.
Track: Education
199
|
Building the Grid
3:10PM
Building the Grid
Panelists:
Dusky Terry (ITC Midwest), John Boston (Alliant Energy), Doug Jacobson (Iowa State University)
The energy grid – which moves power from generation points to local areas – was in the news a lot in 2020 and 2021, but there's been decades of underinvestment in keeping it updated. While there has been an explosion in renewable power sources, some aren't connected to the grid. This session will talk about the power grid as well as what projects like the Soo Line – taking from Iowa wind farms to East Coast markets – could mean for Iowa.
Track: Energy and Environment
200
|
Vaccine Acceptance (DEI Session)
3:10PM
Vaccine Acceptance (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Daniel Zinnel (Proteus Iowa City), Dr. Yogi Shah (Broadlawns Medical Center), Bonnie Lunsford (Catherine McAuley Center-Cedar Rapids), Mugisha Gloire (United We Forward)
Skepticism and hesitancy for COVID-19 vaccines remains high in Iowa's under-represented communities- threatening to allow the pandemic to linger and pose danger to those at risk. What is creating barriers to acceptance? What will it take to connect with Iowa's vaccine resistant as we enter the fall season?
Track: Health Care
201
|
From Foster to Adoption: Perspectives
3:10PM
From Foster to Adoption: Perspectives
Panelists:
Melissa Carlson (Families Helping Families), Kai McGee (Four Oaks), Amanda Zhorne (The Palmer Group)
Permanent placement in a new home with adoptive parents is an important milestone for all involved. Are Iowa's adoptive parents getting what they need for support? What resources are available for parents who encounter emergency situations? What networks of support are available for families to experiences and lean on each other for advice?
Track: Human and Social Services
202
|
Open
3:10PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Infrastructure
237
|
Why is Compromise so Hard to Find? (DEI Session)
3:10PM
Why is Compromise so Hard to Find? (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Steve Sovern (Attorney), Andy Mckean, Linda Upmeyer (Republican Party of Iowa), Rep. Dave Loebsack (US House of Representatives)
A lot of energy is being expended in playing to political bases and talking points. Why are extreme positions getting more attention from the public? Why are politicians spending so much time divided rather than finding solution-based thinking? What does all of this mean for keeping democracy healthy?
Track: Policy
203
|
Rural Survival in Workforce
3:10PM
Rural Survival in Workforce
Panelists:
Liesl Seabert (Empower Rural Iowa), Lisa Kremer (Buchanan County), Michael Wagler (Iowa EDA), Megan Schulte (Froniter Co-op)
What is the current state of rural Iowa as a community, employers and employees within? How can a company and workers sustain and thrive in rural Iowa? A look at basic amenities, wages, benefits, and beyond.
Track: Workforce
204
|
| 4:20PM |
New Horizons for Iowa Tourism
4:20PM
New Horizons for Iowa Tourism
Panelists:
Amy Zeigler (State Tourism), Shirley Phillips (Western Iowa Tourism), Dave Herrell (Visit Quad Cities), Karla Thompson (Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce)
One of the largest industries hit by the pandemic is tourism. How can this national loss leader set forth a road to recovery? With an estimated years to reset, can Iowa's tourism industry innovate and sustain their support to the attractions that depend on them for success?
Track: Community Development
205
|
Issues in Achievement (DEI Session)
4:20PM
Issues in Achievement (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Matt Degner (Iowa City Schools), Laurie Phelan (iJag), De'Carlos Anderson (University of Northern Iowa), Brad Niebling (Iowa Department of Education)
What's the extent of the academic loss from the COVID-19 remote year, and what are schools doing to address it? With specific looks at some of the communities of color, IEPs, and other groups, have achievement gaps widened? Will students be able to recover from the gap over time?
Track: Education
206
|
Energy Storage and the Rise of Solar
4:20PM
Energy Storage and the Rise of Solar
Panelists:
Becky Soglin (Johnson County Planning, Development and Sustainability), Derek Wagner (Alliant Energy), Zhaoyu Wang (Iowa State University)
Several grid-size battery storage projects have or are coming on line this year around the United States. Meanwhile, Iowa is excited by the prospects of Green Hydrogen technology and other means to diversify its energy footprint. What's the potential with these technologies in Iowa? What's driving Iowa solar grid projects-both large initiatives, and small installations for individuals? How much additional growth are we likely to see?
Track: Energy and Environment
207
|
Rethinking Long-Term Care Facilities
4:20PM
Rethinking Long-Term Care Facilities
Panelists:
Brent Willett (Iowa Health Care Association), Clete Younger (UnityPoint), Anthony Carroll (AARP), Shannon Stickler (Leading Age Iowa), Annie Pollock (MercyCare)
The pandemic has encouraged a fresh look at structure and service strategy within long-term care facilities. How can this industry expand and strengthen their scope to ensure the needs of residents and staff far exceed status quo?
Track: Health Care
208
|
Mental Health Centers and Resources (DEI Session)
4:20PM
Mental Health Centers and Resources (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Abbey Ferenzi (Guidelink Center of Johnson County), Ellen Berberich (Eagle View Behavioral Health), Marissa Eyanson (DHS), Andrew McKnight (Iowa City Police)
Iowa has launched several collaborative mental health centers and resources throughout the state. Who has seen positive impact? What are the gaps that continue to be an issue? How are resources staying connected with one another? Is telehealth and crisis response a part of these offerings? This session will hear from Iowa-based centers, hospitals and public safety officials to offer a broad range of perspectives on this complex Iowa issue.
Track: Human and Social Services
209
|
Open
4:20PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Infrastructure
|
Modernizing the Legislative Process
4:20PM
Modernizing the Legislative Process
Panelists:
Charlie Smithson (Sec. of Iowa Senate), Rod Boshart (The Gazette)
The COVID-19 pandemic created a lot of improvisation with the way that local governments function. What changes could be adopted and made permanent? Some committee meetings at the statehouse drew significantly more participation than they did in person. Could some of these practices become more permanent to help make Democracy more nimble?
Track: Policy
210
|
Workforce Issues in Upskilling and Seasonal Employment (DEI Session)
4:20PM
Workforce Issues in Upskilling and Seasonal Employment (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Izaah Knox (Urban Dreams), Theresa Lewis (The Arc of East Central Iowa), Srdjan Golub (Hawkeye Community College)
Iowa has been introduced to some creative workforce solutions, but are we in our own way? How has society created barriers to understanding one's worth and potential? How can employees work through the myths of what can prevent a viable, successful candidate? This session will explore the concept of upskilling along with the benefits and frustrations when it comes to seasonal hiring.
Track: Workforce
211
|
| Friday Schedule | ||||||||
| 8:30AM |
Thomas Abt with special guests Rachel Rockwell, Cedar Rapids Police Chief Wayne Jerman, and Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller
8:30AM
Thomas Abt with special guests Rachel Rockwell, Cedar Rapids Police Chief Wayne Jerman, and Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller
Panelists:
Thomas Abt (Author • Speaker • Senior Fellow, Council On Criminal Justice), Rachel Rockwell (Greater Cear Rapids Community Foundation), Wayne Jerman (Cedar Rapids Police Chief), Tom Miller (Iowa Attorney General)
Thomas Abt will discuss rising rates of deadly gun crime, what's causing them, and how to save lives by stopping violence. He will also explore how policymakers can simultaneously maintain public safety while pursuing criminal justice reforms by emphasizing evidence and avoiding ideology. After Abt's presentation, we'll hear from local community leaders who have applied Abt's theories-inspired and supported by the practice of Group Violence Intervention as introduced by David Kennedy at the 2020 Iowa Ideas conference. Just over six months into the work, panelists will share experiences and impact.
Track: Keynote Sessions
234
|
|||||||
| 9:45AM |
The Outlook on Rural Iowa
9:45AM
The Outlook on Rural Iowa
Panelists:
Sandy Ehrig (Iowa Farm Bureau), Troy Weary (ITC Midwest), Mark Reinig (Iowa State University), Liesl Siebert (Empower Rural Iowa)
Connectivity through broadband, continued creative development and redevelopment through application of new programs, re-imagined services and practices.
Track: Community Development
213
|
Future Training for Teachers
9:45AM
Future Training for Teachers
Panelists:
Bridget Castelluccio (Grant Wood Area Education Agency), Mark DcDermott (University of Iowa), Mark Butland (Iowa EdTech Collaborative), Samantha Dahlby (NewBoCo)
The pathway for educators has gone through drastic changes due to pandemic and beyond. What does our teaching landscape require to ensure future success? This session will discuss issues in tech, social health, and more.
Track: Education
214
|
Environmental Justice in Iowa (DEI Session)
9:45AM
Environmental Justice in Iowa (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Tamara Marcus (Linn County), Silvia Secchi (University of Iowa), Josh Mandelbaum (Environmental Law & Policy Center)
Whether trees after a derecho or access to energy efficient programs to reduce recurring costs, we're starting to see the environmental justice movement in Iowa. What does environmental justice mean? What does the roadmap look like and how could it change the variety of Iowa communities?
Track: Energy and Environment
215
|
Maternal Health Disparities (DEI Session)
9:45AM
Maternal Health Disparities (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Dr. Lynette Cooper (University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics), Stephaney Moody (Count the Kicks), Lastascia Coleman (University of Iowa Hospitals and Clincs)
In Iowa, occurrence of death during or shortly after childbirth is six times greater for Black individuals than white individuals. How can recommendations of IDPH's Maternal Mortality Review Committee help reduce risk and build awareness of what could be life-saving precautions?
Track: Health Care
216
|
Violence in the Home
9:45AM
Violence in the Home
Panelists:
Nelly Hill (Waypoint), Dr. Maria Corona (Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence), Kristie Fortmann-Doser (Domestic Violence Intervention Program)
Trends in the wake of and throughout the pandemic related to domestic violence inside the home. How have our Iowa agencies addressed the increase, and what are the projections moving forward?
Track: Human and Social Services
217
|
Open
9:45AM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Infrastructure
218
|
Child Care (DEI Session)
9:45AM
Child Care (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Jenna Ramsey (Stanton Community), Tracy Ehlert (State Representative), Ryan Page (DHS)
While some legislative changes were enacted, what is the status of child care after massive complications during the COVID-19 pandemic? Are the policy changes helping? Are we seeing child care for second shift? What still needs to happen to increase access to child care in Iowa?
Track: Policy
219
|
Learn by Doing: Career Exploration
9:45AM
Learn by Doing: Career Exploration
Panelists:
Gina Weekley (Leader Valley), Joy Briscoe (Waterloo School District), Jo Christine Miles (Principal Foundation)
Experiential learning programs such as the Iowa Clearinghouse provides students with access to real-world, hands-on learning opportunities. How have school and business partnerships sustained this valuable method of career exploration through the challenges of 2020 and 2021?
Track: Workforce
220
|
| 11:00AM |
Peggy Whitson
11:00AM
Peggy Whitson
Panelists:
Peggy Whitson
Iowa Ideas welcomes Iowa native, former NASA astronaut and first female space station commander Peggy Whitson as the closing keynote for the Iowa Ideas 2021 conference. Ms. Whitson will share her evolution from home-grown Iowa farm girl to record-breaking astronaut, with life lessons learned along the way. Peggy will also reflect on her out of this world mission experiences, her current work with Axiom Space, and training as the backup Commander for the first Axiom Commercial space flight to the ISS.
Track: Keynote Sessions
221
|
|||||||
| 12:15PM |
The Big Idea: Shop Iowa
12:15PM
The Big Idea: Shop Iowa
Panelists:
Jessica Dunker (Iowa Restaurant Association), Ana McClain (Lion Bridge Brewery), Raghul Ethiraj (Deetz), Cathine Champion (Catherine's), Catherine Champion (Catherine's)
2020 ignited hundreds of support local initiatives throughout the state. What kind of impact have these programs had on local businesses? Will these programs sustain? What do local businesses need to survive and thrive? <br /><br />The Big Idea series encourages attendees to bring what has inspired them from the conference, and talk through possible action items starting today.
Track: Community Development
222
|
Open
12:15PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Education
|
Open
12:15PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Energy and Environment
223
|
The Big Idea: The Future of Health Care
12:15PM
The Big Idea: The Future of Health Care
Panelists:
Michelle Niermann (UnityPoint- St. Lukes), Joe Lock (Eastern Iowa Health Center), Suresh Gunasekaran (UHIC)
The future of health care. On the heels of a global pandemic, a change in federal administrations and very slow population growth, what do health care leaders see as the future of health care? What direction will federal policy head and what needs to be done in Iowa to maintain a solid health care system?<br /><br />The Big Idea series encourages attendees to bring what has inspired them from the conference, and talk through possible action items that can begin today.
Track: Health Care
224
|
The Big Idea: Ally, Advocate, Activist (DEI Session)
12:15PM
The Big Idea: Ally, Advocate, Activist (DEI Session)
Panelists:
This Big Ideas series session is for individuals, organizations, and employers who want to engage in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion space. To engage, there are a variety of roles and terms that may appear intimidating. In this session, we will review the terms, differences and common threads when identifying as an ally, an advocate, or an activist, and how all can contribute to the growth in understanding of DEI for Iowans.
Track: Human and Social Services
225
|
Open
12:15PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Infrastructure
|
Open
12:15PM
Open
Panelists:
Track: Policy
|
The Big Idea: Assessments in Action, DEI in the Workplace (DEI Session)
12:15PM
The Big Idea: Assessments in Action, DEI in the Workplace (DEI Session)
Panelists:
Jamie Toledo (Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance), Claudia Schabel (Schabel Solutions), Jonathan Long (Tulsa Chamber)
Strategies of DEI often begin without an understanding of current conditions. Whether reactive or fear of what might be revealed, this Big Idea conversation will talk through the benefits of effective DEI assessments, and how conference attendees can explore tools available to determine how to apply information and ideas exchanged throughout the conference. Past and current assessment experiences will be shared, including a new regional initiative launched by Inclusive ICR.
Track: Workforce
The Big Idea: Business to Business roundtable led by and for people of color (DEI Session)
12:15PM
The Big Idea: Business to Business roundtable led by and for people of color (DEI Session)
Panelists:
ReShonda Young (24/7 Black Business & Entrepreneuriship Accelerator), Matthew Gilbert Esq, Maurice Davis (Jane Boyd Community House), Brandon Jackson (African American Professionals of the Iowa Corridor)
This session invites industry leaders, business owners, and workforce champions for a candid conversation about what people of color are experiencing as a workforce in Iowa. Topics will be led by a review of conference sessions attended-connecting back to resources, community networks, and what can be done to support long term economic success for all Iowans.<br /><br />The Big Idea series encourages attendees to bring what has inspired them from the conference, and talk through possible action items starting today.
Track: Workforce,Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
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Iowa Ideas is free to all attendees. Join the conversation!
