DSM Fellowship
The DSM Fellowship Program is a premier professional development initiative that attracts, develops and retains a community of emerging leaders in Greater Des Moines. Designed for early career professionals with three to seven years of experience, the program provides mentorship, advanced leadership development, community engagement opportunities and meaningful peer connections to help participants grow their careers and build lasting relationships across the region.
Since its launch in 2018, the program has helped cultivate a growing network of leaders who are strengthening their organizations and shaping the future of Greater Des Moines.
About the Program
The DSM Fellowship Program is designed for emerging leaders and centers on a four-pronged approach emphasizing Career Development, Community Engagement, Curriculum and Social Connection.
Fellows:
- Complete a customized advanced professional development curriculum.
- Receive mentoring from executives in their company and across the region.
- Have access to community engagement opportunities.
- Work with a team on a capstone project in partnership with a local non-profit.
- Form lasting bonds with Fellows in other companies.
Career Development: Comprehensive Work Experience
Fellows receive higher exposure earlier in their careers and gain access to leadership guidance through mentorship within their company and from executives across the region.
Community Engagement: Leaders for Today and Tomorrow
As leaders both inside and outside the workplace, Fellows engage with the community through service activities, nonprofit projects and interactions with civic, philanthropic and business leaders. Fellows also meet with state and federal officials to voice their vision of the region’s future.
Curriculum: Advanced Professional Development
Fellows complete a customized advanced professional development curriculum covering topics such as public speaking, global proficiency, influence, conflict resolution, change leadership, delegation and more. Additionally, Fellows will have a direct impact on the community by working closely with a nonprofit organization on a year-long capstone project. Fellows will provide actionable solutions to a problem they face.
Social Connections: Lasting Bonds Through Shared Experience
Through a continued stream of networking, sponsored events and team retreats, Fellows develop lasting bonds and relationships.
Program Impact
Over its eight-year history, the DSM Fellowship program has helped develop 73 Fellows from 16 organizations, strengthening leadership across the region.