The James Jordan Scholars met Fall 2024 for a kick off of another amazing year of discovering why West Des Moines and Central Iowa offers a multitude of opportunities for professional and personal growth. This 8 month leadership program gives metro high school juniors the chance to explore areas in which James Jordan excelled, including governance, banking, philanthropy and agriculture.

 

After a kick off session with inspring words from West Des Moines Mayor Russ Trimble, the Scholars enjoyed creative and enlightening ice brakers designed to not only allow everyone to get to know one another but laid groundwork for expectations and opportunities for the program.

One of the most popular meetings for every class is a tour and discussion with business owners in Valley Junction, lead by the Valley Junction Foundation. This unique business community showcases independent owners and emphasis is on sustainability and the pride they have in their neighborhood.