Community in Action at Weingart Pavillion — May

The Katherine Howell Weingart ’61 Civic Innovation Pavilion, located in Renfrow Hall, is designed to bring people together — creating opportunities for collaboration, learning, and shared experiences between campus and the greater Grinnell community. In May, a diverse lineup of events — from personal storytelling and knitting gatherings to professional mentoring and arts education — brought that mission to life. 

May 5: Humanities Iowa Open Book Series  

The Humanities Iowa Open Book Series, where Iowan participants are invited to share their personal and meaningful life stories. In partnership with Humanities Iowa and CultureALL, Open Book invites participants into small-group conversations centered on real Iowans sharing meaningful life stories. The May session concluded this series with participants Amanda Cawthorne, who shared about their native culture, and Jason Walsmith, who spoke about his last 30 years of touring North America with his band The Nadas. 

May 6: Scents of Grinnell 

This event featured perfumes rooted in Grinnell oral histories that were created by sahabab kabir ’26 and Eric Genet ’26. The event included free perfume and attar samples, a presentation, and food.  

May 7: Iowa Council of Foundations: Spring Quarterly Membership Meeting 

The Iowa Council of Foundations (ICoF), a statewide organization that supports grantmakers through networking, education, and shared resources, hosted a session on the growing importance of supporting local journalism. The session highlighted the national Press Forward initiative and examined the challenges facing local newsrooms in Iowa and across the country. Through perspectives from philanthropy leaders, including the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque and Peggy Elliot from the Grinnell Herald Register, attendees explored how funders and community partners can help strengthen trusted local news and civic engagement in Iowa communities. 

May 14: Sit-n-Knit 

All are welcome to join this casual gathering for friendly conversation and connection with knitters from the community. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or a complete beginner, come enjoy a relaxed and supportive space. To join the email chain for the next session, contact communityenhance@grinnell.edu.  

May 22: Smithsonian Film Series 

In partnership with the Grinnell Area Arts Council, Grinnell College presented A Star-Spangled Story: Battle for America as part of the celebration of the 250th Anniversary of America.  

Sarah Smith, director of Community and Government Relations at Grinnell College, shared, "One of the great joys of being a Smithsonian Affiliate is the opportunity to bring nationally recognized programming and conversation to Grinnell. Through this series, we hope to create meaningful spaces for learning, reflection, and connection across campus and community." 

Designed as a collaborative hub, the Weingart Pavilion welcomes gatherings that foster connection, learning, and community engagement. To host your own event at the Katherine Howell Weingart ’61 Civic Innovation Pavilion, reservations are open to both the college and the wider community. Local community members interested in using the space can reach out to Donnette Ellis, Grinnell College Community Relations Coordinator, at 641-269-3900 to inquire about availability and booking. Students, faculty, and staff may reserve the Pavilion through the 25Live system or by contacting Event Coordination & Scheduling at 641-269-3178.