Des Moines University was inducted into the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame on April 13 as part of National Volunteer Week celebration activities across the country. Governor Terry Branstad presented the award to DMU President Angela L. Walker Franklin in recognition of the service students, employees and alumni provide. Induction into the Iowa Volunteer Hall of Fame is the most prestigious state-level honor volunteers can receive as recognition of extraordinary contributions of volunteer service to their communities.
DMU was among just five individuals and institutions honored this year in a ceremony coordinated by the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service.
“The commitment of these volunteers — and all volunteers — helps Iowa consistently remain in the top 10 states in the nation for its volunteerism rate,” Governor Branstad said. “I am always honored to have an opportunity to personally thank Iowans for donating their time and talent to help their fellow citizens and make a significant difference in our state.”
Des Moines University has an institutional commitment to volunteerism. This has included a longstanding engagement with the homeless population, free health screenings, support of the Healthiest State Initiative and collaborative community partnerships. In addition to service through strategic leadership, grassroots initiatives started by student clubs have had a direct impact on the lives of people of all ages, from developing the United Way Giving Garden to hosting the annual Easter Seals Health & Wellness Fair.
