On September 3, 2025, Greater Iowa City, Inc. hosted the 35th Anniversary Celebration of the Community Leadership Program (CLP) at Walker Homestead. Alumni, sponsors, and community members gathered to reflect on the program’s impact and celebrate its role in shaping leadership across Johnson County.
About the Program
Since 1990, CLP has welcomed more than 800 participants into a year-long experience designed to build connections, foster collaboration, and deepen understanding of the region. Participants explore topics ranging from healthcare and economic development to arts, agriculture, and local government.
The program’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom. Many alumni have gone on to serve in local government, lead nonprofits and businesses, and strengthen the civic fabric of our community. One of CLP’s most enduring legacies is the Community Foundation of Johnson County, which began as a CLP project in 1999. Today, CFJC has raised more than 100 million dollars to support local needs and strengthen the region.
A Look Back and Forward
The 35th Anniversary program featured welcoming remarks from Nancy Bird, a performance of The Song of Iowa by Mike Haverkamp, reflections from alumni, and a look back at the program’s beginnings with Rick Fosse.
Shelly Maharry, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Johnson County, also spoke about the personal and community-wide impact of CLP. As an alum, she credited the program with helping her build lasting connections and understand the community’s needs in new ways. “CLP helped me find my place in Johnson County, build lasting relationships, and better understand how our community works,” she said. “That experience continues to inspire the work we do at CFJC today.”
The evening also included a group photo, recognition of sponsors, and a closing gathering called Sunset on the Farm, which gave classmates time to reconnect.
A Story in Video
To mark the anniversary, Greater IC premiered a video highlighting alumni reflections on how CLP has shaped their careers, their service, and their connection to Johnson County.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This celebration was made possible through the support of the Community Foundation of Johnson County and RSM, whose investment ensures that leadership development remains strong in our region.
Explore More
Learn more about the Community Leadership Program: www.greateriowacity.com/community-leadership-program
View the Photo Gallery here.
