Finding His Way Beyond Iowa—and Back Home

After high school, Smith chose to head west to Colorado College, drawn in part by its similarities to Grinnell College and by a desire to experience life beyond Iowa. Following college, he moved to Arizona, where he worked in finance and met his wife, Ana, in 2013. While he enjoyed the energy of a larger […]

Students Building Community, One Partnership at a Time

Service Leadership Work-Study participants discuss the relationships, lessons, and insights that shape their connection to Grinnell. ●Dec 1, 2025 Left to Right: Olivia Lee ’28, Maya Flynn ’26, Sheilla Muligande ’27, Rachel Rudacille ’26, Thai Theodoro ’27 Grinnell College’s Service Leadership Work-Study program (SLWS) bridges the distance—real and perceived—between campus and community. Through this unique model, students are employed by the College […]

Mayor Agnew Administers Oath of Office to new Council Members

At Monday nights (December 15th) City Council meeting, Mayor Dan Agnew administered the oath of office to incoming Mayor Sam Cox, First Ward City Council Representative John Cox, Third Ward City Council Representative Rachel Bly, Fourth Ward City Council Representative Shane Hart, and At-Large City Council Representative Sarah Smith. These newly sworn-in leaders will officially […]

The Sweet Stroll Returns for a Second Year in Downtown Grinnell

The Sweet Stroll Returns for a Second Year in Downtown Grinnell GRINNELL, IA — The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce and partnering downtown businesses will host the Sweet Stroll, a Valentine’s Day-themed evening full of sales, refreshments, activities, and fun. In addition, participating restaurants will offer dinner specials that evening. The Sweet Stroll will take […]

Grinnell Food Coalition to Open Second Round of Harvest Grant Applications

Grinnell Food Coalition to Open Second Round of Harvest Grant Applications The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) will open applications for its second Harvest Grant on January 5, continuing its commitment to strengthening food access and local food systems across Grinnell, Poweshiek County, and surrounding communities. The Harvest Grant supports existing programs, projects, and new initiatives […]

Grinnell Chamber of Commerce to Host “The Paralyzed Movement”

GRINNELL, IA — The Grinnell Chamber of Commerce will host its bi-annual UnityPoint Health – Grinnell’s Connecting For Women keynote luncheon and evening social in December. Connecting for Women is an opportunity for women within and around the Grinnell community to come together to socialize, network, and learn. The 2025 UnityPoint Health – Grinnell’s Connecting […]

Grinnell Food Coalition Launches New “Seed Grant” to Support Local Food Access Efforts

Grinnell Food Coalition Launches New “Seed Grant” to Support Local Food Access Efforts Grinnell, IA – Aug. 15, 2025 The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) is excited to announce the launch of its new Seed Grant program—a pilot funding opportunity designed to strengthen food access in Grinnell and throughout Poweshiek County. The Seed Grant offers flexible […]

Grinnell Fourth of July Parade brings in a crowd

Grinnell Fourth of July Parade brings in a crowd   J.O. Parker   Upwards to 100 Grinnell businesses, organizations and churches along with area communities were represented at the annual Fourth of July Parade on a warm, yet comfortable Friday, July 4 early evening. Both sides of the parade route from Davis School along Broad […]

Poweshiek Economic Development Collaborative Announces New Executive Director

Poweshiek Economic Development Collaborative (Poweshiek Development) today announced a leadership transition, with Melissa Strovers appointed as the new Executive Director, effective July 28, 2025. She succeeds Dan Nieland, who is resigning from the position. Strovers, currently serving as Poweshiek Development’s board secretary, brings extensive experience in collaborative community efforts, capacity building, and non-profit work. Her […]