Delphina Baumann

On behalf of the community of Grinnell, and as the parent of a Grinnell grad, I extend congratulations to you on your admission to Grinnell College!

I recognize that it may seem surreal to be thinking about moving to a new place. How are you supposed to decide the course of the rest of your life when perhaps you have never set foot in Grinnell?

I understand some of those concerns. More than 30 years ago, I left my home country — equipped, of course, with no cell phone or internet access — so finding “community” was important for me.

I have found the town of Grinnell to be a very close-knit community. Students experience random acts of kindness around the town here, and there are myriad opportunities to participate and find a seat at the table as active and engaged citizens.

For myself, Grinnell has allowed me to pursue my passion for social justice and entrepreneurship. I founded the S.H.E. Counts organization to support and empower girls and women in our county, supporting initiatives such as a first-generation program and an after-school math club for elementary-aged girls. I am on committees addressing food insecurity, equity in service delivery, city planning and zoning, and post-storm tree replacement. I also currently serve as a board member for a local non-profit thrift store (Second Mile).

Best wishes,

Delphina Baumann
(proud mom of Joel Baumann ’18)