From Ambassador to Director of Investor Relations

When I first became involved with Grow Cedar Valley (or as I first remember it, the Cedar Valley Alliance and Chamber), I had no idea how much it would impact me, both personally and professionally. At the time, I was just excited to get more involved in the community, meet new people, support local businesses, and grow the Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa brand (where I worked for over a decade). But over time, what started as a volunteer role quickly evolved into something more meaningful.

I had the privilege of volunteering in various capacities, from serving on event committees to the investor relations committee and eventually as an ambassador. As an ambassador, I had the chance to attend ribbon cuttings, welcome new members, and help connect business owners to the resources the organization offers. It gave me a front-row seat to the energy, collaboration, and dedication that powers our local business community. The volunteer work made me fall in love with the team and mission.

Fast forward to today, and I’m incredibly honored to now serve as Grow Cedar Valley’s Director of Investor Relations. Making the transition from volunteer to staff has been a full-circle moment. I’ve gone from representing Grow Cedar Valley as an enthusiastic member of the ambassador team to now helping lead efforts that deepen relationships with our investors and enhance their experience.

One of the most exciting aspects of this new role is that I will continue to have the opportunity to work closely with our ambassadors! They are a group I look up to and respect. I understand firsthand the impact they make, and I’m passionate about supporting them as they continue to be the welcoming, energetic face of Grow Cedar Valley.

The transition has been smooth, thanks in large part to the incredible team here and the relationships I built through volunteering. And if I’ve learned anything, I’ve learned that being involved pays off. Whether you’re attending events, volunteering your time, or just showing up consistently, those moments really matter. They build trust, foster community, and can even lead to unexpected opportunities, just like this one did for me. If you’re on the fence about getting more involved with Grow Cedar Valley, just start small, ask questions, and get involved.

Katelyn Tungland

Director of Investor Relations 

What We’ve Been Up To at Grow Cedar Valley

As the first quarter of our fiscal year is coming to a close, it’s a good time to pause and look back at everything we’ve been up to. From workforce conversations to leadership development, it’s been a full few months, and we’re excited to keep the momentum going.

Population Study Progress

The Cedar Valley Population Study is well underway, led by our consulting partners at CivicSol.

  • In August, CivicSol held 18 one-on-one conversations with community leaders to better understand our region’s strengths and hurdles.
  • Up next: on October 2, the consultants return for a series of workshops where community members will help shape the action plan.

This work is laying the foundation for a long-term strategy to strengthen and grow the Cedar Valley’s population.

Partnerships and Exchanges

Collaboration has been a big theme this quarter. Strengthening relationships outside of our region helps us bring new ideas into the Cedar Valley while also giving others a closer look at what makes this community a great place to live and do business. Through these conversations, we’re able to compare strategies, explore opportunities, and position the Cedar Valley as a strong partner in statewide and regional growth.

A few highlights:

These exchanges keep the Cedar Valley part of the larger conversation on workforce, economic development, and community growth. They also serve as opportunities to share our region’s strengths to partners and visitors who will carry those impressions back to their own communities and networks.

Intern Connect

We also celebrated the second annual Intern Connect in July. This event introduced summer interns to life in the Cedar Valley and gave them opportunities to connect with each other, explore the community, and discover why the region is a great place to build a future.

Cedar Valley Young Professionals

On July 1, we officially launched Cedar Valley Young Professionals (CVYP), a membership-based program created to connect emerging professionals in the Cedar Valley through networking, development, and community involvement.

CVYP is designed to create a sense of belonging, offering members free access to monthly events focused on personal growth, professional development, and building connections. Individual and employer memberships are available, making it easy for young leaders to plug in, grow their skills, and contribute to the region they call home.

We set a membership goal of 75 for this year. We’re thrilled to share that we’ve already surpassed that target in the first quarter! This early momentum shows there’s real excitement for CVYP and the opportunities it offers to connect, grow, and engage in our community.

Hosting National Site Selectors

In September, Grow Cedar Valley hosted three nationally recognized site selection consultants for a three-day Advisory Forum. These experts, who guide companies on where to expand or relocate, toured our region, met with local leaders, and offered candid feedback on how the Cedar Valley can sharpen its competitive edge.

The visit concluded with a “Rise and Learn” session, during which the consultants emphasized the importance of workforce availability, clear communication of differentiators, and the value of regional collaboration. Their perspectives will directly shape how we position the Cedar Valley for future business investment.

  • Up next: keep an eye out for a full report in the next few weeks, sharing key takeaways from the forum and how we’ll use them to continue strengthening the region’s appeal to businesses.

Preparing the Next Class of Cedar Valley Leaders

In August, the 2025–2026 cohort was confirmed with 45 participants. The Cedar Valley Leadership Institute (CVLI) continues to bring together people who are eager to learn, connect, and lead. We’re excited to welcome our 2025–26 cohort soon, carrying on the tradition of building strong community leadership that fuels the Cedar Valley’s future.

  • Up next: Over the next eight months, the 2025/2026 Cedar Valley Leadership Institute (CVLI) cohort will take a close-up look at the Cedar Valley through hands-on sessions, tours, and meetings with local leaders. Each month focuses on a different aspect of the community, from leadership foundations and political leadership to education, healthcare and economic development. 

Events

This quarter, Grow Cedar Valley hosted nine events, providing networking and professional development opportunities. Each event was another chance to connect people, ideas, and businesses across the Cedar Valley.

Growing Our Team

We’re excited to welcome two new staff members: Kelsie Kunkle and Katelyn Tungland. Their energy and expertise will be key as we move forward with new projects and expand our reach in the community.

This quarter has laid a strong foundation for growth, collaboration, and opportunity. In the months ahead, we look forward to engaging with our community, supporting local talent, and strengthening the region as a place where people and businesses can succeed.

Welcome CVLI’s 2025-2026 Cohort

Please help us welcome the 2025/2026 Cohort of Cedar Valley Leadership Institute (CVLI)!

Justin Bohlke
Rice Companies

Annie Bolt
UnityPoint Health

Hailey Broten
Lincoln Savings Bank

Madison Buzynski
VGM Group, Inc.

Courtney Chesmore
Cedar Falls Community Credit Union

Isaiah Corbin
INRCOG

Kelly Cota
Cedar Falls Community Schools

Lauren Crawford
VGM Group, Inc.

Matthew Crisman
VGM Fulfillment

Shanda Davis
University of Northern Iowa

Kate DeMartino
Western Home Communities

Shannon Demkiw
Dalton Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Hilary Denk
Farmers State Bank

Elizabeth DeWinter
John Deere

Samantha Doering
Gallagher Bluedorn

John Dornoff
City of Waterloo

Josiah Hanson
John Deere

Cara Hintz
VGM Group, Inc.

Lacey Holmes
John Deere

Ross Horbach
Waterloo Fiber

Hermina Ibricic
Vine Valley Real Estate

Lauren Jensen
Farmers State Bank

Nathan King
BankIowa

Sally Kleiss – Timmer
Cedar Falls Community Foundation

Nichole Ladage
John Deere

Blake Lahmann
John Deere

Morgan Lehmann
Western Home Communities

Brandy Luna
Woodruff Construction

Kevin McCulloch
John Deere

Michelle Meaney
Community Bank & Trust

Ally Parker
VGM Group, Inc.

Lisa Parsons
Veridian Credit Union

Lane Peters
Cedar Falls Utilities

Paul Prescott
INVISION Architecture

Paige Price
Waterloo Community Foundation

Emma Richter
Edwards Smith Family Dentistry

Elizabeth Sadler
CBE Companies

Lexi Schneider
City of Waterloo

Kara Schrader
John Deere

Timila Shrestha
Wapsie Pines Lawn Care

Brynn Vander Beek
Community Main Street

Annika Wall
Cedar Valley Hospice

Chris Wander
BankIowa

Zachary Wells
RADA Manufacturing

Aden Zwanziger
PDCM Insurance

Over the next eight months, the 2025/2026 Cedar Valley Leadership Institute (CVLI) cohort will take a close-up look at the Cedar Valley through hands-on sessions, tours, and meetings with local leaders. Each month focuses on a different aspect of the community, from leadership foundations and political leadership to education, healthcare and economic development. CVLI is built to give participants practical leadership experience while exploring how the Cedar Valley works and what makes it tick.

“I’m excited to support this next group of leaders who care deeply about the Cedar Valley and continue to make CVLI a space where people build real relationships, gain a better understanding of our community and walk away feeling inspired to get involved and lead in their own way.” –Stephanie Detweiler, PHR, Director of Talent & Workforce and CVLI Facilitator

To learn more, please visit www.growcedarvalley.com/cvli.

Good Morning Cedar Valley

Good Morning Cedar Valley: Texas Roadhouse

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025

Thanks for joining Good Morning Cedar Valley, our quarterly community update and networking breakfast for GCV Investors. We appreciate you starting your day with us!
Not an investor yet and want an invite to the next one? Contact Katelyn Tungland, Director of Investor Relations at katelyn@growcedarvalley.com

Below are the links to all the information from today’s event.

Mayor Quentin Hart of Waterloo, IA & Mayor Danny Laudick of Cedar Falls IA

 

 

 

 

 

TEE UP CEDAR VALLEY: REGISTER HERE

Hurry! Registration ends at noon, September 18, 2025. There are only a couple of spots available!

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunnyside Golf & Country Club

OPPORTUNITY SUMMIT: REGISTER HERE

Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Waterloo Convention Center

SMALL BUSINESS & STARTUP SUMMIT: REGISTER HERE

Thursday, November 13, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Waterloo Convention Center

UPCOMING GROW CEDAR VALLEY EVENTS

UPCOMING CVYP EVENTS

JOIN CVYP TODAY

Thank you to our Premier Host Sponsor: TEXAS ROADHOUSE

Sponsorship Opptorunities are still available! For more informaiton, please email erin@growcedarvalley.com

 

Building Stronger Communities Through Statewide Partnerships

Grow Cedar Valley works alongside several statewide organizations to expand support for businesses, nonprofits, and local governments. These partnerships strengthen local efforts by connecting the Cedar Valley to broader conversations with state and federal leaders.

Iowa Chamber Alliance (ICA)

The Iowa Chamber Alliance is a nonpartisan coalition made up of the 15 largest Chambers of Commerce in Iowa, representing more than 15,000 businesses. Led by Executive Director Dustin Miller, the alliance supports policies that encourage investment, job growth, and statewide economic development. Focus areas include tax policy, infrastructure funding, and maintaining a strong business climate.

Grow Cedar Valley participates in weekly calls with the alliance during the legislative session to coordinate priorities and discuss how Chambers can work together to support Iowa’s business community. This work continues throughout the year with federal engagement, including meetings with members of Congress to discuss initiatives such as Small Business Administration programs and review bills that could impact Iowa businesses.

Iowa Business Council (IBC)

Founded in 1985, the Iowa Business Council brings together 21 leaders from some of the state’s largest employers, representing more than 150,000 employees. The Council drives economic growth through research, advocacy, and data-driven policy, focusing on workforce development, statewide competitiveness, and long-term planning. Grow Cedar Valley values this partnership as a way to better understand how Iowa compares with other states in areas such as economic growth, health and wellness, and education.

Professional Developers of Iowa (PDI)

Professional Developers of Iowa is a network of nearly 300 economic development professionals representing multiple sectors. The organization strengthens community and statewide growth through collaboration, education, and advocacy. Grow Cedar Valley staff regularly attend PDI conferences focused on economic development initiatives and have joined the PDI legislative advisory team during their meetings with legislators and the Governor’s staff at the Capitol during legislative sessions.

Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI)

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry represents over 1,500 businesses across all 99 counties. ABI advocates for policies that strengthen Iowa’s economy and workforce.

Grow Cedar Valley regularly attends legislative events hosted by ABI and works closely with the organization to highlight businesses in the Cedar Valley.

This partnership includes planning a Cedar Valley stop for ABI’s upcoming Elevate Iowa manufacturing tour, which will draw attention to local businesses and workforce initiatives. Efforts like these provide opportunities to connect state leaders with the employers, employees, and communities that keep Iowa’s economy moving forward.

Working Together for Growth

By engaging with statewide and federal partners, Grow Cedar Valley brings local perspectives into broader policy discussions. These connections expand opportunities, strengthen advocacy, and position the Cedar Valley as an important contributor to Iowa’s economic future. Through these partnerships, collaboration keeps the needs of existing businesses at the forefront of policy conversations that influence their growth and long-term success.

CAPS Design Sprint

cedar valley caps design sprint

Grow Cedar Valley was honored to be invited to join this year’s Cedar Valley CAPS Fall Design Sprint. We were charged with presenting a problem for the associates to solve. On day one, we met the students and shared the challenge:

The Cedar Valley is made up of six counties, each with its own unique history and community, but many people don’t see the region as one connected place. We asked the students to help us spark a sense of pride and unity across the Cedar Valley and come up with ideas that could help locals and visitors recognize it as a cohesive region. They were split into small groups and asked to develop creative solutions that could make the Cedar Valley feel like one connected, proud, and engaging place.

 

Over the next five days, the students worked together to brainstorm, test ideas, sketch solutions, and build presentations that could actually solve the challenge. On day five, each team presented their projects in front of their peers and a panel of local business leaders. The presentations showed how the students approached the challenge in unique ways, collaborating, testing ideas, and figuring out how communities can connect in real ways. Their creativity reminded us how fresh perspectives can spark real solutions, especially when people work together.

CAPS gives high school students the chance to tackle real-world challenges, pitch ideas, and receive feedback from professionals. Watching the students refine their ideas and present with confidence was inspiring. We left with several projects and ideas that we are eager to continue developing with CAPS to see take shape.

Thank you to Ethan, Amy, and the entire CAPS team for hosting a week that brought students, creativity, and the Cedar Valley together in such a memorable way. Experiences like this show why the Cedar Valley is a place full of opportunities, connections, and people ready to build something together.

 

 

Made in the Cedar Valley: Dignity Apparel

“Made in the Cedar Valley” celebrates local businesses that combine quality craftsmanship with a deep commitment to their people and place. Each story highlights how these companies contribute to the region’s economy, culture, and identity. Dignity Apparel stands out in this series because it not only makes clothing in Waterloo, it does so with heart, purpose, and a belief in building community through meaningful work.

Creating Opportunity Through Purpose

Dignity Apparel in Waterloo is redefining what it means to make clothing in the United States.
Built on the belief that every person deserves respect, fair wages, and safe working conditions,
the company creates dignified, life-changing jobs while producing quality garments that
customers are proud to wear.

At the heart of their mission is a simple idea: work can be meaningful when people are valued.

A Commitment to People

Every garment at Dignity Apparel begins with people. The company employs a skilled union
workforce and partners with organizations that care deeply about producing 100% USA-made,
union-made products. Their apparel is made entirely in the United States using American fibers
and fabrics. From cutting and sewing to packaging, it all happens right here.

For many employees, this work provides stability, supports their families, and builds a sense of
community.

Shabani’s Story

One of those team members is Shabani, Sewing Floor Supervisor at Dignity Apparel. He joined
the company in 2023, managing the sewing team, overseeing daily production, quality-checking
garments, and coordinating the cutting line.

“I am thankful for Image Pointe and Dignity Apparel and the opportunity to work for them. I feel
like family here and I am cared for and loved very much,” Shabani shares.

Shabani’s journey to Waterloo started in 2016 when he came to the United States after violence
and conflict overtook the area where he is originally from in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Today, he uses his position at Dignity Apparel as an extension of his work in the community.

“I am a community leader and pastor, and working at Dignity Apparel is an extension of my
ministry. I love serving people and helping them,” he says.

Speaking five languages, Shabani also helps translate for employees and families who are new
to the area. “I can help non-English speaking individuals get access to services like healthcare
and jobs. I can do the same thing for people here at Dignity Apparel.”

Shabani’s story reflects the heart of Dignity Apparel’s mission – providing opportunity, stability,
and dignity for every person who walks through its doors.

Guided by Core Values

Dignity Apparel’s approach to business is rooted in a set of values that define how they operate
every day:

  • Dignity Providing a safe and respectful environment for every employee
  • Family Offering fair wages, strong benefits, and a culture where people feel cared for
  • Relationships Building trust with employees, customers, and partners for long-term success
  • Excellence Striving for high standards in every garment they produce
  • Honesty & Integrity Leading with transparency in every interaction

These values influence every decision, from the way products are made to the relationships built with team members and customers.

Reviving American Manufacturing

In the 1960s, nearly all clothing worn in the United States was made domestically. Over time,
that number has sharply declined. Dignity Apparel is working to bring those jobs back by
producing apparel made from American fibers and fabrics, sewn in union factories by people
who earn fair wages and benefits.

By creating sustainable, local manufacturing jobs, Dignity Apparel is helping rebuild an industry
while improving the lives of workers and their families.

Impact by the Numbers

Dignity Apparel’s growth reflects its dedication to people and purpose:

  • 1,000+ days of dignified jobs created
  • 136 U.S.-based jobs supported
  • 400,000+ garments produced

Each number represents opportunity.

A Cedar Valley Company Making a Difference

Dignity Apparel’s products are shipped across the country, but its heart is right here in Waterloo.

By combining craftsmanship, care, and opportunity, the company is creating stability,
empowering employees and helping families build brighter futures.

For Dignity Apparel, success is measured by people and their work is changing lives in the
Cedar Valley and beyond