Grinnell College Vice President for Community Engagement and Strategic Planning Monica Chavez-Silva has been selected to receive a 2026 Governor’s Volunteer Award in recognition of her outstanding commitment to volunteer service in Iowa.
Grinnell College and the Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation have announced lead gifts totaling $475,000 in support of the Grinnell-Newburg School Foundation (GNSF) campaign benefiting the new Grinnell-Newburg Elementary School project at Ahrens Park. Grinnell College has pledged $250,000, while the Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation has committed $225,000 to the foundation’s School Facilities Fund, helping advance community efforts to bring the full vision of the new school to life.
In May, a diverse lineup of events — from personal storytelling and perfumed oral histories to statewide networking and films from the Smithsonian — brought that mission to life.
Lodaya, from India, is pursuing majors in Economics and History and has distinguished himself as both a scholar and campus leader. The award, named in honor of Nancy Schmulbach Maly ’61, celebrates students who embody her extraordinary legacy of leadership and service.
Grinnell College Catering continued a long-standing partnership with Grinnell High School by hosting its annual pre-prom dinner, a tradition dating back to 2011. Shaped by student input through a dedicated prom committee, the event features favorite menu items—like the crowd-pleasing “Fudge Overload” dessert—while offering a high-quality, local dining experience. The evening reflects a shared commitment to creating a safe, memorable celebration for students close to home.
For decades, the Grinnell College Preschool has been a place where curiosity is nurtured, community is built, and young learners take their first steps into a lifelong journey of discovery. This year, the College pauses to honor two individuals who have shaped that experience for generations of children and families — Karen Veerhusen-Langerud and Connie Molison — as they enter retirement.
In April, a diverse lineup of events — from personal storytelling and knitting gatherings to professional mentoring and arts education — brought that mission to life.
Grinnell College, local power company Alliant Energy, the Ahrens Family Foundation, the Mayflower Community, and the City of Grinnell has partnered on a new solar park, ensuring that will 75% of Grinnell's power will come from renewable sources.
What began as a simple idea to sing together has become Vox Feminae — a close-knit group of women who find connection, creativity, and care through music. With each rehearsal and performance, they continue to build community and share something meaningful with Grinnell.
At the covered entrance of Drake Community Library, a simple but meaningful new resource is quietly making a difference. The Grinnell Community Fridge offers 24-hour, no-questions-asked access to fresh and recovered food — providing another layer of support for community members navigating food insecurity. For Rachel Rudacille ’26, the project has been more than a volunteer effort. It has been an opportunity to listen, learn, and help build something lasting alongside community partners.
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