Recipients of the 2025 Reignite CommUNITY Awards Announced, Registration Now Open

WEST DES MOINES, IA (July 8, 2025) – The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) will host its fifth annual Reignite CommUNITY reception on October 22 at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The evening will focus on learning, growth, and celebrating efforts to uplift Iowans across the state. Honorees in nine award categories will be recognized throughout the night.
The individuals and organizations being recognized include:

• Government: Mazahir Smith

• Student: Isaiah Poe

• Inclusion Initiative: OneVoice DSM

• Leader: Will Keeps

• Emerging Leader: Val Veiock

• Large Business: Holmes Murphy

• Small Business: Professional Contrarian

• Nonprofit: The Beacon and Lutheran Services in Iowa (two recipients)

"We had an incredible group of nominations this year," said Meredith Murphy, director of future workforce at the WDM Chamber. "Celebrating these community leaders, organizations, and initiatives from across the state of Iowa with a brand-new style of event at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden this fall is going to be a night that will fill all our hearts."

The recipients were selected from 39 applicants by a panel of judges representing a range of professional backgrounds who reviewed each submission and provided detailed feedback. Judges included: Ashton Bierman, Dwana Bradley, La Toshia Burrell, Stacey Cale, Lori Cole Magerko, Liz Cooney, Mary Core, Jennifer Hahn, Matt Hauge, Ngozi Igbokwe, Rae Luna, Madison Melohn, Lindsay Rone, Heather Schott, Bobbi Segura, Eric Shepard, Joey Spivey, Yeymi Tobar, Ida Wood.

Hundreds of attendees will be able to enjoy live entertainment, delicious multicultural appetizers, and a Unity Path to walk through the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden dome.

Registration is now open and can be found through wdmchamber.org/reignite-community. Registration for this event closes on October 15 at 11:59 p.m.

Sponsors and partners make this event possible through their generous support. Key sponsors include:

• Scholarship Sponsor: Wellabe

• Gold Sponsor: Microsoft

• Champion Sponsors: Google Fiber, IMT Insurance, NCMIC, Merchants Bonding Company

• Supporting Sponsors: Holmes Murphy, MWH Law Group

• Award Sponsor: Triplett Office Solutions

• Video Sponsor: FE Studios

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About the WDM Chamber of Commerce
The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, established in 1924, is a dynamic organization dedicated to championing all things West Des Moines. With a focus on strengthening local businesses, providing personalized resources, and attracting a top-tier workforce, the Chamber aims to position WDM as the best suburban city in America. Celebrating a century of excellence, the Chamber boasts a diverse community of over 900 members, offering something for everyone. Explore the possibilities, learn more about the chamber, and discover how you can get involved in shaping the future of West Des Moines at wdmchamber.org.