2023 Connectors

I was born and raised in central Iowa, but moved away long enough to appreciate the midwestern values.

I am a Grand View University graduate, and small business owner in several Des Moines suburbs, so I have a vested interest in seeing the community prosper.

My husband, Andy, and I reside in Johnston. We have four children: Drew (15), Alyx (8), Ryah (6) & JJ (2). We spend a lot of time in the fall & winter cheering on the Grand View Vikings football and Iowa Energy basketball programs.

I’ve been a Head Hunter since 2015 and love it! Previous to that, I have 25+ years of Human Resources management experience, with Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. My full range of HR knowledge, coupled with a multitude of business and professional connections, ensures my success in identifying top talent to meet my client's needs. Here at Career Search Associates, we help businesses fill full time positions ranging from the front desk to the CEO. We specialize in Administration, Accounting, Marketing, Sales, Human Resources, Project Management, Call Center Management and Retail Store Management. We are respected recruiters who also help the passive candidate that wants to explore opportunities in a confidential manner.

Some say, I do deals in heels!  Hi, I’m Reonna – a business professional that has been in the hospitality, event planning industry my entire life.  I graduated with honors at AIB College of Business with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Travel and Tourism.  Following graduation, I accepted a job at AIB as the Alumni Relations Coordinator then moved up to Director a couple years later.  Throughout the years, I’ve been in sales and management positions at hotels and restaurants.  I'm currently a Des Moines area Sales Executive for Heart of America Group.  A flourishing company!
In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family plus friends, volunteering and venturing out to any community event. 
 

Renee Neppl is making a difference by connecting Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to businesses of all sizes in an effort to increase employee productivity and total well-being of leaders, employees and their families. As a Sales Account Executive at EFR - Employee & Family Resources and Urbandale Chamber Connector, she enjoys fostering relationships and pursuing her passion in developing and supporting today’s workforce. She has more than 20 years in talent program management, consulting, career coaching, recruiting, diversity and sales. She enjoys spending time at the lake and time with family and friends.

Dave is "Of Counsel" with his Law Firm Abendroth and Russell and is still available for referrals and assistance. He splits his time between the Law Firm with his duties as an Urbandale City Councilman, Deacon on the Church DEACON Board, Missions Board , Church Treasurer and Adult Bible Study Teacher at Des Moines First Assembly of God .Dave also serves on the Board of Directors of Adult and Teen Challenge of the Midlands of Colfax Iowa..

Jason grew up in LeMars, IA and attended the University of Iowa, receiving a degree in Communications, and Iowa State University, where he received a degree in meteorology. He has worked at WHO-TV, KCCI-TV, and KCWI-TV forecasting and covering Iowa's ever-changing weather. Jason joined Compass Financial Services as a Sales Assistant in 2016, and in 2020 began his career with the team at Clear Mortgage. He is also a Business Consultant with an nonprofit called Avenue Scholars. aHe lives in Urbandale with his wife Kelly and sons Nolen, Maddox, and Hudson and their trusty dog, Radar. 

Lisa is the Projector Coordinator at Iowa Sign Company. She graduated from Grand View University in 2009 with a B.A. in Graphic Design/Journalism. Before Grand View, she had 9 years experience in Sales & Marketing in the hotel industry. She is married to Timothy Hanrahan whom they share two children, Cailin (age 19) and Adilia (age 9) and resides in Des Moines. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Johnston Chamber of Commerce. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family, exercising, traveling, photography and designing. To keep her creative juices flowing, she does freelance design and photography. 

Norm Trentmann, a Registered Professional Engineer, retired from MidAmerican Energy in 2015 after 43 years of service.  He graduated from the University of Missouri at Rolla with BSEE (Electrical Engineering),  has served on the Midland Credit Union Board of Directors, and the Engineering Club of Des Moines.  Norm has served on the Urbandale Chamber Board of Directors and is active as a Chamber Connector.  HIs current interests include volunteer work, travel, cars (particularly Corvettes), gardening. He and his lovely wife, Janet, live in Urbandale and have two adult children: Jonay (Houston TX) and Andrew (Denver, CO).

KSH Design Studio creates personalized and custom gifts. I specialize in personalizing metal and glass items by mechanical etching. I love to do custom designs for our customers. I offer EMBROIDERY services as gifts and for small businesses. I use Heat Transfer Vinyl for any fabric item such as T-shirts, baby bodysuits, pillow covers and even lawn chairs. I enjoy working with small business owners and using their logos to create items they need for their business such as Logos on apparel (Polo shirts, Jackets, Aprons & Hats). All items are completed by a handmade process by KSH Design Studio. I only use the highest quality materials found in the industry. This provides you, the customer with the best product for the money available. I provide the best customer service possible. I answer all emails as quickly as possible, the same day 99% of the time. I want all your questions answered to your satisfaction! In 2020 I received TSB Certification through the SBA.

Mark has owned and operated his State Farm Agency in Urbandale since 1985 and moved into his current office location at 6773 Hickman Rd in November, 2009. Shortly after starting his State Farm career, Mark joined the Urbandale Chamber and has been a member ever since. Mark has been involved in the chamber in many capacities and has served on the Board of Directors, has been the Chair of the Connector committee during two different tenures as well as serving on the government affairs committee, the communications committee and the advocacy committee. Mark has been named the Connector of the month numerous times, Mark Courter Insurance was the 2005 Urbandale Chamber Business of the Year, in 2008 Mark was honored as the Urbandale Citizen of the Year and was named the best insurance agent in the Des Moines area for 2018 by Cityview and has been one of the top three agents in 2019, 2020 and 2021.

I am the Marketing Director at Edencrest at Green Meadows in Johnston. Our award-winning Senior Living Communities offer Assisted Living and Memory Care in six locations in the Des Moines metropolitan area. My hometown is Shell Rock, Iowa, and I attended Waverly-Shell Rock HS. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Health Promotion in 2000 and moved to the Des Moines metro in 2002 as a salesman with Kraft Foods/Nabisco. I retired from the Mid-Iowa Baseball League (2015 All-Star) in 2019, and I am the biggest Atlanta Braves fan on this side of the Mississippi. I reside in West Des Moines with my wife, Heidi and my twelve year old son, Emerson.

Nicole grew up in Johnston and now she and her family reside in Urbandale. Nicole is an active member of the Urbandale community and volunteers her time locally through the Urbandale Kiwanis Club, the Urbandale Schools & Alumni Foundation and the Urbandale 4th of July Committee. Nicole was named Connector of the Year for the Urbandale Chamber in 2019. Nicole is the Membership Director at Associated Builders & Contractors of Iowa. At ABC, Nicole is responsible for member recruitment, engagement, and retention. She is there to serve the member companies as they grow through the association's leadership programs, events, networking, and business development opportunities.

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Operations from Iowa State University. I have many years' experience working on senior management teams of companies to help make them more profitable and stronger companies. This is my passion and I will use it to serve you as a connector & Total Resource Campaign 
  Urbandale Chamber of Commerce: Ambassador of the year (2011)-Ambassador from 2005 to Present
 

I am currently blessed to hold several part time jobs: Volunteer for Catch Des Moines at events, volunteer with the Urbandale Chamber, I teach private piano lessons, I serve as organist at a church in Altoona and am an active "girl" grandma.  I lived in Carroll, Iowa for over 30 years, where we raised our family and our two girls graduated from Carroll High School. In 2015, after several life changes, I chose to make Urbandale my home, a decision that has proven to be the right choice many times over. I love Urbandale and look forward to serving in this new role as Connector with the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce.
When the grandma taxi isn't running, I like to garden and attend live music events.

Hi, I am a Independent Certified Health Coach.  My professional career spans wide with 30 years in Corporate America, providing a wide range of experience in the financial, customer service, collections and technology industries.
Today, as I coach lifestyle and transformation, I am passion driven on the success of others creating hope with their health, mindfulness and overall wellbeing.  Empowering others with their health is a true blessing in life, to them with the choices they get to make with their life, as well as, making memories with family.  Sharing this gift of life is what I do, guiding, supporting and walking the dream of a healthy tomorrow, one day at a time.
I love spending time with family, friends, gardening, outdoor activities and living my best possible life.

Hey everyone! I graduated from Grand View University in 2018 with my Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology-Health Promotion, with hands on experience in nutrition, strength and conditioning, and physical therapy. Outside of my career at MMIT, my main hobbies are finding house projects to do, woodworking, watching sports, and playing with my dog Gracie, who is a chocolate lab pit bull mix. I also like going to country concerts, festivals, spending time with my family, cooking, and exercising. I am always down for a cup of coffee to learn more about other people's businesses and how we can help support one another in our wonderful community. Let's connect sometime!

Commercial real estate agent licensed in Iowa offering services to tenant and landlord rep. for office, retail space, and industrial asset classes with a focus on the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Greetings from Roger Stalheim, President of RLS INC. 
Are you ready to make more profit? Make more progress in your business than you have ever made before?
Are you ready to get your employees behind you? Our members have seen huge advancements in all these areas and more. I have owned my own companies and I know what it takes. I know what you go through. I know how to help you succeed. 
I am a serious free lance Business Mentor, Business Developer. 
Let us connect and let's talk business. Let us talk about what is holding you back. Let's talk about what you can do to get to where you want to go. 515-402-2880 . email stalheimroger@gmail.com
Your future can be brighter and healthier, and more profitable. COME ON. LET"S TALK

I have been a long time Connector with the Urbandale Chamber and am glad to be back networking.  Please reach out and let's learn about each other's business and each other!  I have made great friends here and look forward to making more!  

I have recently married late in life and we are looking forward to our twilight years!  Who knew camping could be this fun in a trailer!  My two kids are adulting now and it's quiet enough at home I'm actually getting some work done now that I am working out of a home office!  I am a huge sports nut so let me know if you ever want to go watch a game!

See you soon!
Rhonda

I started Community Hand Up in an effort to bring fulfillment to my life. I raised 2 amazing kids by myself while living in poverty. I saw first hand how when we struggle there is not always someone there to give you a hand up. For me being able to make someone else's life a little bit easier is a round about way to make my life easier. There is nothing better than a hug or a thank you from someone who just wanted to feed/cloth their kids.  

I am really enjoying meeting business owners and feeling like a part of this community I have lived in off and on for almost 30 years.  

I also have a side gig selling wine. So if you are ever in need of a drink and a chat...I got you covered on both. 

Gina has spent the majority of her professional career in hospitality and working with the community. For the last 8 years she has been a Franchise Business Coach with the corporate entities of Subway and Pancheros. Gina values working with a team that is committed to impacting change. This makes her a great match with the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce. As the Vice President, she is excited to get involved with your organization and start building strong, lasting relationships. 

I was born and raised in Hawkeye country- Iowa City! Go Hawks! While attending the University of Iowa, I was involved in many student organizations, where my passion for event coordinating began. After 5 years primarily in the wedding industry, I was ready to take on a different and new avenue of events, leading me to the Chamber world! I am dedicated to bringing impactful event opportunities to life for our community's professionals. 
When I’m not running around Urbandale, you might find me trying to keep my flower garden alive, in the kitchen cooking an extravagant meal, boating at the lake with my family, or at a country concert. A few of my favorite things include iced coffee, any form of pasta, cats, Kenny Chesney, and gnomes (solely because they’re cute).

Since 2004, Tiffany Menke, IOM, has been the President of the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce. She has served on the boards of and is a Past President/Past Chair of ICCE, CITR, and IMA.  She currently represents Iowa on the MACE Board of Directors and serves on the Diversity and Inclusion Council through the Greater Des Moines Partnership as well as participates in a pilot program through the Evelyn K Davis center to mentor exoffenders.

In 2017, Tiffany was honored as a Woman of Influence through the Des Moines Business Record. Other honors include 40 under 40, and Ovation award from the Iowa Women's Foundation. She grew up in Newton and went on to Grand View University in Des Moines where she earned a degree in Mass Communications, Journalism and a minor in Photography.

To schedule a meeting with me, calendly.com/tmenke  

Mary has had careers in banking, was Executive Assistant to the President of USG Annuity & Life Company, a Fundraiser & Events Director at Make-A-Wish Foundation of Iowa, & employed for 11-years at the Partnership. 
Mary is a member & is active in a number of organizations. She is past president & member of LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association)-Amateurs of DM, current President of the Willow Creek Tuesday Morning Ladies Golf League, past president & current member of PEO Chapter KD of Des Moines, & current member of the Urban Heights Covenant Church among various other organizations.
 
Mary married Pat Knueven in 1980. Their son (Jason) and daughter-in-law (Becky) live in Gardner, Kansas, with their 2 boys, Cael & Cameron. She loves to play golf, travel, & spend time with her two grandsons.

I'm Matt Christiansen and I've lived in Des Moines my whole life. I love and believe in my community and aim to be a positive contributor to it as it has been to me. That is the main reason I chose to work for Big Roofing. Big Roofing is a local company with local people making sure local Iowans are happy for years to come with any service we provide. We take care of our neighbors.

I have over 15 years of professional experience in my field of expertise! I’m constantly learning about the new market in our industry and ongoing trends in the digital marketing world. I'm also a go-getter and enjoy experimenting with something new every day in my life. Building up a relationship with my clients and team is always the key to success in our world today. If you require someone who can produce quality content for your online presence I'm your guy!

Aisha grew up in Iowa (Clive and Urbandale).  Graduated from Drake University with double majors in Management and Marketing.   In 2004, unfortunate circumstances, brought her back to Iowa, from Dallas, TX.  In 2005 she earned her Real Estate License and in 2015 earned her Real Estate Broker License.  For 15 years she juggled her real estate career, along with working with her mother, Saloo, at the Downtown and Valley Junction Farmers Markets, selling Indian food (Saloo's India).   Since Saloo retired from the farmers market, Aisha has been able to focus solely on ONE full time job (being a REALTOR®) AND now she has quality time to network, take vacations...and just breathe. Aisha said, "I never thought I would ever be coming back to Iowa.  But having lived elsewhere, I can truly appreciate what all Iowa and it people have to offer; I am GRATEFUL TO BE HOME, IN IOWA."

I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with an Elementary Education degree and spent many of my college years involved in my sorority and volunteering at schools. The past few years, I have been teaching middle school math in Des Moines. I cannot be happier to join the Chamber and pursue my passion of event planning.

While I am not at the chamber, I attempt many DIY projects around my house, take my dog to the park and spend the majority of my time brewery hopping around Des Moines with my friends and family!

Rachel grew up in Fort Dodge, Iowa and has always enjoyed helping and leading others. Rachel attained her bachelor’s degree from Buena Vista University in Business Management/Entrepreneurship in 2003 and became a Certified Senior Advisor® in 2019. She first honed her leadership skills in retail management and working in the non-profit sector. 

Outside of work, Rachel has always been involved in many community organizations volunteering and assisting on a leadership level. She landed in the healthcare industry four years ago and has greatly enjoyed her time working with seniors. As a Certified Senior Advisor®, Rachel can assist seniors with planning for their healthcare needs, socioeconomic supports, and organization for end-of-life care. 

Rachel lives in Newton with her husband and their two fur children, dogs Izzy and Auggie.

Aaron Colyer comes to Raccoon Valley Bank offering over 10+ years of banking experience. He specializes in Business Banking to provide the best service to his clients. He takes pride in serving his community and exploring options to best suit each business’ needs. Aaron is hands on with getting new and existing local businesses set up with their Banking and Cash Management needs, such as, but not limited to: ACH, Remote Deposit Capture, QuickBooks Integration, Positive Pay, Business Online Banking, and other day-to-day functions. He has a wealth of knowledge to help grow his clients in the banking world to help their success. Aaron has a growing portfolio of clients that attest to his satisfactory customer service, and he would love to meet with you and discuss your businesses banking needs.

My name is Lisa! With over two decades of experience in the lending industry, I am a seasoned Mortgage Loan Officer who knows the ins and outs of the business. My passion for helping people achieve their dream of homeownership has only grown stronger over the years. From navigating the highs and lows of the market to conquering the ever-changing regulations I have faced it all with a smile and an unwavering commitment to my clients. My clients often describe me as a guiding light, leading them through the complex mortgage process with ease and assurance. I love to build genuine relationships and make my clients feel like family from the very first meeting. When I am not crunching numbers or closing deals you will find me on a beach or spending time with my grandson. 

I graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelors in Sports and Recreation Management. The beginning part of my career has been spent working in the sports industry as a sales professional including for a few of the local Des Moines teams. I am looking forward to transitioning my career to serving my hometown and having a positive impact on the Urbandale community through the chamber! In my free time I enjoy spending it with my family, my girlfriend and our dog Suzie.