Finding Home in Cedar Rapids: Kristina Selander and the Impact of Talent Attraction
April 30, 2025 | Economic Development & Workforce, Live Here, Member Stories
This Is IOWA is a state-run program created by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). It aims to attract skilled professionals to Iowa, helping to meet workforce needs across various industries. As a supporter of the initiative, the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance assists by providing information to both program administrators and individuals looking to make Iowa their home. For Cedar Rapids, Kristina Selander was the very first participant selected—a testament to her impressive background and the city’s growing appeal as a destination for talent.
Kristina’s Story
Kristina grew up in Iowa, spending her early years in Ames before moving to Sioux City. After college, she ventured far from home, settling in Albuquerque for 26 years. While she certainly enjoyed aspects of life there, it was never quite a perfect fit. As she and her partner considered their future, the pull of family brought them back to Iowa—both of their parents were getting older, and they wanted to be closer to them. However, Kristina wasn’t interested in returning to familiar places, so Sioux City was off the table. Iowa City, while appealing, was too expensive, and many smaller towns lacked the energy she was looking for.
Cedar Rapids, on the other hand, had grown significantly since her last visit in the ’90s. It felt safe, affordable, and, most importantly, full of life. The city’s arts and culture scene, combined with its accessible green spaces, sealed the deal.
With a background in civil rights law, Kristina has spent her entire career advocating for underserved communities, from inmates’ rights to children’s legal protections. When she moved to Cedar Rapids, she found a new opportunity with United Way of East Central Iowa. There, she coordinates eight Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) clinics in the area, reaching as far as Jones County. Kristina trains volunteers, ensures compliance with IRS regulations, and provides technical and logistical support all to help low-income households navigate tax season. The work is demanding, but with 75 volunteers preparing around 1,600 tax returns annually, her impact is undeniable.
Beyond her professional life, Kristina has found Cedar Rapids to be a refreshing change from the desert landscape she left behind. She’s looking forward to hiking in the parks, exploring downtown, and enjoying the balance of city amenities without the overwhelming hustle. More than anything, she’s struck by the community’s willingness to help—something she believes sets Cedar Rapids apart from other places she’s lived.
The importance of stories like Kristina’s cannot be understated. Talent attraction has long been a priority, but in the past decade, it has become a crucial and strategic initiative for cities, regions, and states across America. With declining birth rates and aging populations, communities are facing growing workforce shortages, making it more vital than ever to actively attract and retain talent. This Is Iowa plays a key role in addressing this challenge by putting our state—and our community—on the map.
Iowa isn’t always top of mind for those considering relocation, but this program is changing that narrative. By showcasing the incredible quality of life, career opportunities, and welcoming communities our state offers, This Is Iowa helps prospective residents see Cedar Rapids as a place to build their future.
For more information on This is IOWA and other talent attraction and retention efforts in our area, please reach out to our Talent Attraction Director, Jodi Schafer or our Workforce Specialist, Laura Seyfer.