The Chamber has teamed up with the ISU Extension Office to whip up a feast of resources for families to discover all the cool summer shenanigans in town.
Find unique gift, home and wardrobe items throughout Washington, Iowa! Quaint shops offer up candles, sewing supplies, repurposed vintage items, home goods, books and gifts.
If you’re traveling to Washington for the day, why not spend the night here, too? Hospitality includes motels, unique suites, camping and lodging for groups.
Explore the outdoors in Washington, Iowa! Bikers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are welcome here, where we are surrounded by the beauty of nature at every turn.
Performances, movies, visual arts and hands-on creativity take center stage in Washington! Come for the World’s Oldest Continually Operating Movie Theater and stay for the incredible performing arts spaces, art galleries and places to create!
Leadership Washington Hosts Economic Development & Finance Day(10/15/2024)-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 10, 2024 Washington, Iowa – On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Leadership Washington participants engaged in a full day of learning and networking focused on economic development…
Washington Golf and Country Club Celebrates 100 Years!(9/16/2024)-Washington, IA- Saturday, September 14, 2024 the Washington Chamber Ambassadors had the pleasure of celebrating a 100-Year Anniversary of our local Washington Golf and Country Club! Prior to the…
Wonderland in Washington + Exciting News!(11/8/2024)-New & Exciting! Main Street Washington received a Branding Grant from MSI earlier this year and we’ve just completed the process! You’ll be seeing all kinds of new and beautiful…
July in Downtown Washington(7/12/2024)-What’s New Main Street Washington NEW OFFICE at Greiner Plaza! Just last week, we moved into our new home at Greiner Plaza, 120 E Main St, Suite 6A. We are thrilled to…
Please return application to: Chamber of Commerce, 205 West Main Street, Washington, Iowa 52353 or, email: [email protected]
Applications will be accepted until the class of 25 members have been filled
Class selection is first-come, with priority given to Chamber members.
Tuition is $350 for Chamber Members. We encourage a limit of one class member per business. Non-chamber members will be accepted only if space allows for an additional $50.00. Chamber Bucks will be awarded at the end of the year to those with perfect attendance.
A Leader Is One Who:
Knows the Way, Goes the Way, and Shows the Way
A real ‘eye-opener,’ Leadership Washington gives its participants a full-spectrum vision of the community. A new perspective on its people, its needs, and most importantly, its opportunities.
This program helps to build, strengthen and educate current and future leaders in our hometown. Leadership Washington is a premier community awareness program promoting leadership within Washington. We educate, inform, and inspire participants to develop their inherent qualities to propel Washington into greater prosperity. The ultimate goal is to instill passion in our emerging leaders while fostering a higher level of civic engagement.
Since its inception in 1989, Leadership Washington has graduated hundreds of men and women from both the private and public sectors. This diverse group of alumni represents every industry in the community and virtually all walks of life. Leadership Washington gives its participants a wide range of exposure and insights into the many segments of society that make Washington a great place to live. Through this new awareness, the program equips leaders to better appreciate and understand the depth and breadth of the community. What’s more, those selected for the program build a ‘network’ with fellow participants that reaches across geographic, professional, and economic lines. This network is personally enriching far beyond the program year.
What’s the Commitment?
Leadership Washington hosts an integrated series of nine monthly sessions in different regions of the community. The program begins in September and runs through May. Classes are held on the second Wednesday of the month from approximately 8am – 5pm and are subject to change.
Topics cover the various levels of local government, businesses, agriculture, industries and more in our community. The tentative calendar can be found below. As you consider applying to the program, please review the session dates for the year. Leadership Washington places the highest priority on full participation. It is important that all applicants make the necessary adjustments to accommodate the program schedule in order to attend the entire day.Please review personal and professional calendars.
Get the inside look at a nine-session program designed to educate individuals all there is to know about Washington:
Economic Development & Finance
Education
Health/Recreation
Business & Industry
City & County Government
Agriculture
County History
Thank YOU both for all the hard work you put into Leadership Washington. I have NEVER been in such a great program that offered so much learning and FUN! We are so lucky to be part of this great community. Just wanted to say THANK YOU to you both! What a fun rewarding job you get to do everyday!
-Jenny Morgan, Elliott Realty, Leadership Washington Class of 2018-2019
What a great way to meet new friends and see and learn about businesses and sites!! History Day was my fav!
-Stacey Reese, Greiner Buildings, Leadership Washington Class of 2022-2023
This program was so beneficial for me to network, make connections and learn about industry and businesses in the area. I would like to continue to be involved and stay connected.
-Brittany Slaubaugh, Kirkwood Community College, Leadership Washington Class of 2022-2023
This was a great program! After being away from Washington for many years this was a perfect re-introduction to how things have changed and also stayed the same!
-Cary Ann Siegfried, Washington Free Public Library, Leadership Washington Class of 2022-2023
Leadership Washington Class of 2024-2025
My name is “Bonnie” Ruth Rund. After growing up and graduating from Washington I left for college with plans to never look back. After college I moved to the Kansas City area where I raised a family and loved all things Kansas City. Go Chiefs!
Fast forward 30 years and as empty nesters my husband and I decided to make the move back to Iowa primarily to be near my folks. Moving from a subdivision in KC to a rural Washington county was a huge change and as my husband says we are living our best life!
I’ve worked in the promotional world for the last 25 years, currently working remotely selling for the company I worked for in Kansas City. My team works on all things promotional for multiple Fortune 500 companies and pride ourselves on having fun every day. Life is too short to not love what you do.
Since being back in Washington I’ve gotten involved with Main Street Washington on their promo committee and love being involved with all things Washington. I am a huge believer in shopping local and everything we can do to continue to make this wonderful place we call home thrive. I am looking forward to being involved in Leadership Washington to learn more about Washington and hopefully find more ways I can get involved.
My name is Taylor Patton and I have lived in Washington for the past ten years, and a few years during my childhood. Washington has always felt like home, so when I heard of a position open at Halcyon House, it seemed like the right move...and here I am still at Halcyon House doing a job I love! My husband Eric and I have four children, a boy and three girls. In our spare time, we enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling and trying new things! I am so excited to learn more about our town and connect with others in the community! during my childhood. Washington has always felt like home, so when I heard of a position open at Halcyon House, it seemed like the right move...and here I am still at Halcyon House doing a job I love! My husband Eric and I have four chilren, a boy and three girls. In our spare time, we enjoy spening time outdoors, traveling and trying new things! I am so excited to learn more about our town and connect with others in the community!
My name is Steven Boman. I was born in 1982 in Kansas City, Missouri. I grew up playing soccer, swimming competitively, and participant in Boy Scouts where I earned the rank of Eagle Scout. I graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Strategic Communication. I then joined the Peace Corps where I lived and served in rural Tanzania for 27 months. I taught about HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, girl's empowerment, with a sprinkling of business skills and bio intensive farming. I then returned to the US and started working in a self-contained special needs middle school classroom while working on my master’s in public administration with an emphasis in Non-profit Management. I have also worked in a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility for youth, a homeless shelter for youth and a fully inclusive preschool for ages 6 weeks to 5 years. I then worked at Men's Wearhouse for eight years before joining Edward Jones. I married Jillian DeSotel October 9th, 2010, at her family's farmhouse in Washington. We have a twelve-year old son, Cooper who is active in scouting and 4H where he shoots archery and raises chickens and an 8-year-old daughter who is in Clover Kids and loves playing soccer and basketball. In 2022, we moved to Washington and currently own the house Jill grew up in and where we were married.
My name is Rachel Kelly, previously Swaffer. I grew up as your typical small-town Iowan just outside of Brighton, Iowa on my parent's hobby farm. I have always loved the opportunities that small-town life has offered me, such as the ability to serve my community. I have personally witnessed the generosity of our community when our family experienced a house fire. We lost everything. To see so many people, both strangers and friends alike, come together and risk their lives to try and save our house and even take care of us after the fact has definitely left a lasting impression on me. My career paths of dispatching and photography have shown clearly where the inspiration originated. I have been a dispatcher for almost 3 years and love being able to give back to the community. I live in and approach my photography business with the same service mindset. I want to enable people to have lasting memories of their loved ones. I feel grateful to have grown up in the Washington County Community and I hope to continue finding new ways to be involved and serve the community.
My name is Barbara Donkersloot. I previously taught for the Washington Community School District and am now part time at the Washington Regional Center for Kirkwood Community College. I have a BA degree from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, in education, with a minor in theatre and a master’s degree from Viterbo University in Lacrosse, Wisconsin.
My husband and I have 3 grown children and 2 granddaughters. I am part of the Washington Conservation board and the Washington Performing Arts board. Our family attends Finley Chapel, a rural Methodist church between here and Mt. Pleasant.
I'm proud of how attractive our town is, how it offers essentials and specialties for all of us, and Washington's "energy level" with activities for everyone every season.
I am, Hayley Wright, a Treasury Management Officer for Hills Bank in our Washington Branch. Since July of 2022, I have committed myself to being involved in the community and helping meet the business needs of Washington County. My customers and co-workers are what I enjoy most about my job, no day is the same. When I am not at work, I enjoy getting to spend time with my daughter and husband, on our family farm where we raise cattle and hogs. I also enjoy cheering on the Hawkeyes, Packers football and riding ATV’s.
Hello, my name is Crystal Herbert. I’m a mother of three and a grandmother to 13. Originally from Illinois, I moved to Washington at 17 and began working at Washington County Hospital and Clinics as a night lead housekeeper. I soon transitioned to Dietary Supervisor, which led me on a journey of learning and growth. With WCHC's support, I became a Certified Dietary Manager and Certified Food Protection Professional (CDM, CFPP), all while balancing work and family. Six years ago, I returned to WCHC as a CDM, CFPP, where I now mentor others. I’m passionate about empowering my team and making a difference in our clients’ lives. I’m grateful to WCHC for the opportunities I've had and for allowing me to help others grow.
Hello! My name is Holly Beinhart and I am the Office Assistant at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Washington County. I live in Keota with my husband, Nick, and our four children. In my free time, you can find me helping out on our family farm, working on various DIY projects, playing with my beloved dogs, camping, and staying active with my family. I have also been placing foreign exchange students in Southeast Iowa school districts for the past 5 years. I’m passionate about exchange and bringing new cultural experiences to our small communities and can’t wait to visit my students all over the world someday!
My name is Isabella Lujan and I am the daughter of Katie Lujan. I am currently a junior at Washington High School where I participate in Cross Country, Track, Drama, Speech, NHS, Student Congress, Earth Club, and Dance Team. I also am a part of my church, The United Presbyterian Church, and 4-H in the community. I enjoy volunteering in my church, for Saturday Kitchen, at my school, and for the Tree Committee. I have lived in Washington my whole life and I look forward to learning more about our community!
My name is Mya Talbert. I am the Real Estate Administrator and Subdivision Coordinator for the Washington County Auditor office. I previously worked for Hills Bank and Trust for three years and Vetter’s Culligan Water for two years prior to this position. I enjoy spending time with family, hanging out with my dogs (Hendrix and Blue), and being active outdoors. I also enjoy to cook/bake, play board games and watch tons of movies. I have lived in Riverside, Iowa for four years and have enjoyed the community that Washington county has to offer!
I am Jill Klinzman, currently serving as the director of UP With Kids Daycare. For over two decades, I have been involved in childcare. I am currently in college, working towards obtaining a teaching license. I was raised in Iowa City and graduated from City High. For the past 19 years, I have been living in Washington. I am blessed with four incredible daughters, aged 18 to 12, and an amazing husband. I have a passion for discovering new destinations, camping, and participating in outdoor activities with my family.
My name is Kayley Clark and I am employed at WCDC, Inc. In my 6 years at WCDC I have worn many different hats but I currently serve as a Direct Support staff in the Day Hab program. I was born and raised in Washington and graduated from Washington High School. I have two children, my son is 11 and my daughter is 2! During my free time I enjoy reading a book with good coffee, spending time outdoors, and we love the Washington Farmer’s Market!
I look forward to learning more about the community that I love and telling my children all that I learn!
Hayley Hershberger is the broker/owner of Kalona Realty, Inc. Hayley has been licensed to sell real estate for 10 years. Born and raised in Washington County, her deep roots in the community. Hayley holds a BBA in Finance from the University of Iowa. Her commitment to her community extends beyond real estate, evidenced by her active involvement in several community organizations. With a supportive husband and three children, Hayley balances her professional life with cherished family moments and her passion for running.
Kristin Ho is the ESL Online Coordinator at Kirkwood Community College, helping adult language learners enroll in free English classes and embark on pathways to their personal and career goals. Prior to her role at Kirkwood, she taught English language classes at the University of Iowa, where she received an M.A. in Linguistics. She is passionate about helping people become empowered members of their community. This program is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the Washington community and better serve its residents. In her free time, she enjoys exploring trails by bike and by foot (new favorite: Kewash Nature Trail!).
My name is Kyla Wilkening. I was born and raised in central Iowa where I graduated from GMG High School. I attended college at the U of I and graduated with my bachelor's degree in human physiology. For the last 2 years I have worked at the YMCA of Washington County as the health and wellness director and have loved every minute of it. Just recently, I finally became a Washington resident after commuting from Coralville for the last couple of years. I live with my fiancé, Zack and my dog, Gunner. In my free time I enjoy running, spending time with friends and family and being outdoors.
Originally from southeast Iowa, Brooke Stout is rooted in the Washington community, actively engaged in various local activities. Brooke’s educational background consists of a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in accounting, another B.B.A. in finance, and a Master of Accounting from the University of Iowa. Her post-graduation career started with experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Dallas, Texas before she made the full-time commitment to the LattaHarris team in Washington. During her leisure hours, you can find her enjoying activities such as jogging, reading, and spending quality time with her family.
Hi, my name is Lorena Diaz. I've resided in Washington for most of my life, and I proudly graduated from here in 2021. Currently, I am working at CBI Bank & Trust as part-time FSR Teller. Getting involved in the banking and financial world has really increased my passion for Real Estate. I've been looking into the process of obtaining my Real Estate License and the required classes and hopefully here in September I'll be able to register for those classes. While my passion for Real Estate is strong, my passion for helping my family is stronger. Along with working at the bank, I also work at 2 Bros Mexican Bar & Grill supporing my two uncles as they achieve their dreams. Although I do enjoy the time I spend at work, I also find joy in numerous activites ouside of it which inlcude spending time with my family, planting in my garden and hanging out with friends.
Nick Juelsgaard is an Electrical Engineer originally from Creston, IA. He is the sole proprietor of Nick Juelsgaard Engineering, LLC, an engineering consulting company. He is a graduate from Iowa State University and his work has focused mostly on automated systems for industrial applications. He worked for companies throughout the state as well as Wisconsin, Illinois, Arizona, and Hawaii. His wife Kelly is originally from Washington (maiden name Teitsworth), an '05 graduate from WHS, and they moved back with their children in 2020. His twin daughters attend 2nd grade at Stewart Elementary and Kelly stays at home with their one-year-old. He enjoys watching movies, playing with his kids, and directing and acting in local community theatre shows.
My name is Jenifer Roberts. I am the new administrator for Washington County Public Health. I have been with Public Health for 5 years as a home health nurse and assistant director of nursing for a year. I am not originally from Iowa but my husband grew up in the area. My family and I live in Crawfordsville. My husband, Dustin, and I have two kids, Carter & Adilyn. I went to Iowa Wesleyan College where I got my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. I worked at Mercy- Iowa City and UIHC before landing at Washington County Public Health. I absolutely love helping people and keeping residents in their home for as long as possible! I am beyond excited to serve Washington County and learn more about the area!
My name is Robert Donkersloot. I have lived in Iowa the majority of my life but my K-12 years were in Clifton, New Jersey. I have a BA in Art from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, as well as a minor in speech and drama. I taught both Art and Speech in the WACO district but have always lived in Washington County. The last 15 years I have been living in Washington and driving the Washington County Minibus. My riders have ranged in age from 3 to 103! My wife and I have 3 grown children and two granddaughters. Since my family was in New Jersey, and I like to drive, we have been to 48 states. The two remaining are on opposite coasts! I'm very happy with the quality of life in Washington and look forward to learning more about our community.
Regina Schantz lives south of Washington with her husband, Dave. They have three children and nine grandchildren. Regina is a retired high school Spanish teacher who taught in the WACO and Washington school districts. She is a member of the local singing group Just Us Girls. She volunteers at the Chamber office and is a trustee on the library board. She enjoys working in her yard and following ISU and UNI sports.
My name is Will Tapken, I have worked for the City of Washington Water Treatment Plant as the Assistant Superintendent since May of 2022. I currently live in Washington with my fiance Clara Schmitz. Originally I am from North English. I enjoy being outdoors playing golf, hunting, and fishing.I am looking forward to experiencing all the neat things that go on in our community and surrounding areas.
My name is Kyle Larson. I was born and raised in SE Wisconsin moved to Iowa in 2004, I am married to Melainie and we have 4 adult children and 4 grandchildren. I am currently the Outside Plant Supervisor at KCTC and have been with KCTC since 2019. I enjoy officiating sports and have done both hockey and football for 25 years.
Hello, my name is Cheryl Chalupa and I am in Teller Services at the Washington State Bank Motor Bank. I have been with WSB for 15 years and before that I worked at Orscheln Farm and Home for 14 years. I'm originally from Iowa City and moved here almost 33 years ago. I have three kids, Jacy, Cody and Jaden and two dogs, Kai and Stella Bear. When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my adult kids, gardening, flowers, plants, reading, lifting weights & working on numerous projects at home.
Kenneth Roger Schroeder, a Bettendorf native and graduate of St. Ambrose College in Davenport with a degree in business administration, has had a diverse and accomplished career. After serving in the Iowa Army National Guard from 1968 to 1974, Kenneth spent over three decades in commercial printing, culminating in his role as plant manager from 1988 to 1999. He also owned and operated a Christmas tree farm from 1986 to 1993. Kenneth transitioned into injection molding manufacturing, working as a middle manager from 1999 to 2007, before spending nearly a decade in the retail hardware business until his retirement in 2016. A dedicated community member, Kenneth actively serves in missions and outreach at the United Methodist Church, and is a member of the Washington Golf & Country Club and the Kiwanis AMers.
Randi Brase is the Activities Director at the Washington County Conservation Board, I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. After graduating from Iowa State University in 2017, I interned at the Conservation Center for 2 summers before taking on a full-time position as the Center Coordinator.
When I’m not at work, I spend my time snuggled up with my two dogs, Oliver and Theo, traveling and checking new places off my bucket list, and golfing with my husband. We recently became first time parents to a son who is also enjoying his dogs, traveling, and golfing!
My Name is Tyler Alderton, I'm a current senior at Washington High School. I participate in athletics including track and field along with Cross country where I'm apart of both varsity teams. In addition to athletics, I am serving as NHS Treasurer this year. Outside of school I work with several clubs and committees in the 4-H community, and my church. Currently I am serving on the Financial and Electrical/Sound committees in my church and previously participated on Session. While in the 4-H community I serve as acting treasurer of my club and member of the county council, and committee and senior member in the dairy department. After this year I intend to continue running at the college and competitive level, and study architecture or architectural engineering at an undecided college.
My name is Connie Johnson. I’m excited about being part of Leadership Washington! I was born and raised in this community. I’m a 1978 WHS and an Iowa alumni. I taught first and second grade in McAllen, Texas and Columbia, SC. I retired almost 2 years ago from working in an elementary school library for 23 years in Irmo, SC.
My husband and I arrived back in Iowa upon retirement in October 2022. God took him home in January 2023. His final mission in life was to get me here near family! Our oldest son, Micah and daughter in law, Janelle, live in Crawfordsville with our two grandchildren. Our younger son, Joshua recently moved to Asheville, NC so that our grand-dog, Elvis, could have a backyard to play in!
I love to travel and have been on mission trips to Mexico, Cuba, Taiwan and my favorite place in the world (other than the beach) is Medellin, Columbia multiple times. Road trip anyone?!
I now volunteer at Stewart Elementary and The Lighthouse Shelter. I attend CityPoint Church and I love children, reading, and watching the Indiana Fever!
*This schedule is tentative. Subject to change if necessary.
Sept. 11
Orientation and City History Day | 9am-5pm
This will be your opportunity to learn about the upcoming class sessions and meet your class members. Enjoy lunch with the class, and take off for a tour around the city to learn about the history of Washington.
Oct. 9
Economic Development and Finance Day | 8am-5pm
Tour the Washington Municipal Airport and the community, talk with WEDG/Chamber/Main Street, and learn about the local financial system.
Nov. 13
Education Day
Visit local education & support facilities and discuss today’s education issues with the administration and staff.
Dec. 11
Health & Fitness Day | 8am-5pm
Explore the Washington County Hospital & Clinics and get a first hand look at Washington’s Ambulance Service, new Community YMCA, and Washington’s parks and recreational facilities.
Jan. 8
Business & Industry Day | 8am-5pm
Learn about Washington’s businesses and industries including a tour of a Washington manufacturing business.
Feb. 12
City and County Government Day | 8am-5pm
Experience the ins and outs of Washington’s City & County Governance. You will get an insider look at the County Jail, the new Communications Center, Police Station, County Courthouse, City Hall and Fire Department.
March 12
Agriculture Day | 8am-5pm
Tour area farming operations and learn about the impact of agriculture on our community.
April 9
County History Day | 8am-5pm
Traditionally, one of the highlights of the year. You will spend the day with Mike Zahs touring Washington County. You will visit old towns, Indian burial mounds and have an Amish meal.
May 14
Graduation
You will receive your class photo, certificate of completion and hear from a distinguished speaker over celebratory hors d’oeuvres and drinks; time & location TBA.
Leadership Washington is an intensive nine-session program designed to educate civic-minded individuals about current issues and concerns which face the Washington area. Each of the nine sessions takes on a different theme to create a diverse area of knowledge about what goes on in Washington County including Economic Development, History, Social Services, Education, Government, Health and Fitness and Agriculture. Meetings are held once a month on the second Wednesday, typically from 8am – 5pm, in various areas in the community.
How long has Leadership Washington been in existence?
Leadership Washington started in 1989 with the 1989-1990 class.
How are the classes selected?
Leadership Washington classes are selected from nominees who submit applications to the program. Nominees can be by referral or self-nomination and must be residents of Washington County or work in Washington County.
How large are the Leadership Washington Classes?
Each year, not more than a total of 25 men and women are selected to participate in Leadership Washington classes. The intimate class size allows for an optimal learning experience and develops lasting friendships and businesses associations.
If I receive a nomination letter, does that mean I have been selected to participate?
Unfortunately, no. Your nominating letter is a great first step and one that you should be proud to receive. The next step is filling out and sending in the application. Only when this is accomplished will a candidate be considered for the next class.
When is the Leadership Washington class selected?
In August of each year, class members are notified of their acceptance into the program and asked to make a commitment to participate.
What if I miss a class?
Attendance is critical to the success of the Leadership Washington experience. Class members who miss any part of a class may be asked to attend a session in the following year in order to complete the necessary requirements for the program. All applicants must understand that attendance is very high priority.
Alyx Dietz: Federation Bank
Angela Goodwin: YMCA of Washington
Angela Langstraat: Hills Bank
Anna Nacos: WCHC
Bill Monroe: Washington Chamber of Commerce
Brock Sobaski: WCHS
Brooke Hanson: Washington State Bank
Caleb Miller: Community 1st Credit Union
David Collins: WEDG
Erin Kaye: United Presbyterian Church
Heather Hora: Self-Employed
Jamie Ferski: EBD
Jim Lester: City of Washington Police Department
Jonathon Ward: Paneless Window Cleaning
Jordan Hill: US Bank
Kara Rodgers: Washington State Bank
Lino Villa: EBD
Olivia Pacha: Knee Deep Solutions
Patty Koller: Washington County Riverboat Foundation
Renee Pfeifer: WCDC, Inc.
Rory White: KCTC
Samantha Meyer: WCHC
Tania Villa: State Farm-Scott Lujan
Teresa Long: Wasihngton County Treasurer
Tyler Cain: iTech
Willie Stone: Washington CSD
Washington Chamber of Commerce
Main Street Washington
WEDG
City of Washington
