Chapter Conference
Planning for Generations!
Join colleagues from across the state and region in Ankeny for the 2025 APA Iowa Chapter conference on October 8-10, 2025 at the FFA Enrichment Center! Continue to check back here in spring 2025 for details on registration, sponsorship opportunities, and volunteering for the planning committee.
Meet Our 2025 APA Iowa Conference Keynote Speakers!
We’re thrilled to welcome two powerhouse keynote speakers to the APA Iowa 2025 Planning Conference, taking place October 8–10 in Ankeny!
Dr. Lisa Coleman
President, Adler University
Dr. Coleman brings a global perspective on inclusive leadership, innovation, and systemic change—drawing from decades of experience at Harvard, NYU, and beyond.
Dr. Claire Muselman
Founder & President of Dr. Claire Muselman (DCM)
Known for her dynamic and engaging approach to leadership and empathy in the workplace, Dr. Muselman is a thought leader in human-centered strategy and organizational culture.
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and energized as we plan for the next generation of great communities in Iowa!
Award Nominations
The nomination period for the 2025 APA Iowa Chapter Awards is open through Friday, August 15.
Awards Program and Nomination Form
Students -- Here's your chance to win some cash and attend the conference for FREE! Submit your student poster by September 5, 2025 to be eligible.
Student Poster Contest and Nomination
Hotel Blocks
Residence Inn Des Moines Ankeny -- $169 per night
1515 SW Main Street, Ankeny, IA
Last day to book: Monday, September 8, 2025
Book your group rate for American Planning Association -- Iowa Chapter Conference
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Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny -- $169 per night
1230 SW District Drive, Ankeny, IA
Last day to book: Friday, September 26, 2025
American Planning Assoc. Booking Link - Home2 Suites by Hilton Ankeny
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Tru by Hilton Ankeny -- $169 per night
1230 SW District Drive, Ankeny, IA
Last day to book: Friday, September 26, 2025
American Planning Assoc. Booking Link - Tru by Hilton Ankeny
Student Travel Scholarships
The APA Iowa Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee provides $500 to two students (one from the University of Iowa and one from Iowa State University) from underestimated communities for travel to both the state and national APA conferences. The student receives $100 for the state conference and $400 for the national conference to be used for travel expenses. The goal of this scholarship is to help remove some of the barriers faced by students when attending conferences. We hope students use this opportunity to grow professional connections and gain insight on current planning trends.
Applications are due by August 22, 2025 for the APA Upper Midwest Annual Conference (October 8-10, 2025 in Ankeny, IA) and APA National Planning Conference (April 24-28, 2026 in Detroit, MI). Students will be notified by September 1st. See the Scholarship Packet for more information.
Please contact Emani Brinkman with any questions.
Sponsors
Thank you to our 2025 Annual Conference Sponsors! If you would like more information about how your organization can support and participate in this event, contact Sponsorship Chair Trey Rouse at trey.rouse@bolton-menk.com
