Our Leadership
The Junior League of Des Moines is overseen and managed by two governing bodies: the Board of Directors and a Management Team, respectively.
The Board of Directors serves to advise, govern, oversee policy and direction, and guide the strategic plans and goals of JLDM so as to support our mission.
2020-2021 Board of Directors
President: Monika Owczarski
Executive Vice President: Maria Lantz
Financial Vice President: Melissa Gesing
Secretary: Rachel Hardin
Leadership Development Director: Catherine Hillestad
Director At-Large: Kay Oskvig
Director At-Large: Jenica Lensmeyer
Past President: Meg Malloy
The Management Team oversees the day-to-day operations for JLDM and strengthens our impact in the Des Moines community. Where the Board develops the strategic goals, the Management Team develops the programs and activities to further and achieve those goals. The team includes five councils: Communications, Fund Development, Community Research and Development (CR&D), Membership, and Training and Education. Various committees are housed under each council.
2020-2021 Management Team
Community Research & Development Manager: Sarah Biermann
Fund Development Council Manager: Adrienne Gross
Membership Council Manager: Kara Van Nordstrand
Training & Education Council Manager: Vacant
Communications Council Manager: Annie Reser