2025 Young Professionals of Iowa Conference

The 20th Anniversary of Young Professionals of Iowa is shown through our 2025 Conference theme, "Back to the Future: Launching Leaders." It's been two decades of empowering young professionals and fostering changemakers across the state. During our one day together, we will get a chance to look back on YP's impact on Iowa while moving forward in our own work and communities through networking, small group learning sessions, and hands-on activities. Get a sense of your trajectory: What can we do today that will make a difference 20 years from now?

Info: In collaboration with our local YP organization, AREA Young Professionals, join us Thursday evening to kick-off the conference and network with other attendees at Sweet Carolines (316 Main St, Ames, IA 50010). Appetizers will be provided, and beverages will be available for purchase. This event is free to attend for all, whether or not you are attending the conference. For this reason, we ask all to complete a separate RSVP so we can get a sense of headcount. Let us know if you plan to come at https://forms.gle/e7HMaNGPYocvzjoX8.

Info: We'll start our day with welcoming remarks from the our community host, Ames Regional Economic Alliance, President & CEO, Dan Culhane.

Info: Moderated by a former chair of YP Iowa, Jessi McQuerrey, this panel will feature the young professionals who came before, when there were no young professional organizations in our state. How did they get the idea to band together? How did those early days shape their future careers? And what is needed from today's young professionals in our workplaces and communities?

Info: Attendees will have the option to attend one of three engaging, interactive breakout sessions during this timeframe provided by Iowa professionals.

Info: Attendees will have the option to attend one of four breakout sessions. Our first breakout options will be repeated, plus the chance for those who are engaged in leading a community YP organization to come together to share best practices, discuss challenges, and more.

Info: Enjoy lunch with other attendees while hearing from our lunch speaker, to be announced.

Info: This conference-wide activity will have you using today's takeaways so you're ready to take action.

Info: We'll conclude our day with closing comments and a special announcement as we look ahead to the 2026 YPIowa Conference!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

ISU Alumni Center, 429 Alumni Lane, Ames, United States