Inclusive IOWA

ALL ARE WELCOME HERE

A Diverse, Equitable and Inclusive Business Community

At the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, our mission is to drive economic, workforce and population growth strategies, and to help businesses succeed. Diversity, equity and inclusion are ingrained in our purpose of creating meaningful connections. An inclusive, equitable business community makes our local economy strong, and a diverse workforce fuels belonging, openness, and innovation.  

Inclusive IOWA

Inclusive IOWA creates a space for solution-focused discussions that drive meaningful action toward diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a coalition, we prioritize amplifying all voices, to ensure a variety of perspectives are heard, and a more inclusive future is a priority for our region.  

Inclusive IOWA Pillars

• Educate: Convene members to learn from local and national experts on timely and relevant DEI issues. 

• Network: Create a safe space to question, discuss ideas, explore solutions and acknowledge barriers 

• Impact: Advance workplace inclusion and belonging through shared resources, newsletters, and promotion of community events. 

Get Involved

Inclusive IOWA is led by an advisory council made of dedicated community members who help organize and plan each event hosted by Inclusive IOWA.

The group hosts bi-monthly coalition meetings and events to educate and connect on relevant topics. During months without a meeting, there is a virtual networking opportunity called Cups of Connection. Members receive regular updates and event reminders through the monthly digital Inclusive IOWA newsletter. There is no membership fee to be a part of the Inclusive IOWA coalition. If interested in getting involved with this group, please sign up for the monthly newsletters and join our LinkedIn Group.

The Inclusive IOWA Coalition is a proud partner of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance.

Inclusive IOWA 2025 Advisory Council

Noor Burkle (Chair)

Holly Stevenson (Chair)

Jed Peterson

Star Smith

Michelle Waldron

Crystal Lewis

Theresa Lewis

Quinn Pettifer

Melissa Silver

Hannah Shelton-Hauck