Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates

We had the opportunity to participate in the Social Innovation Summit last week in Atlanta. The conference brings together dynamic thinkers and doers around one goal: sparking partnerships that redefine what's possible in social impact.

Our own Wendy Mihm-Herold took the stage with Lauren Coape-Arnold from Apollo Opportunity Foundation of Apollo Global Management, Inc., as well as representatives from The Honor Foundation and The Marcy Lab School, for the Purpose in Action panel. Together, they discussed how the partnership between iJAG, Apollo Opportunity Foundation, and Athene is creating meaningful pathways for students and helping them achieve success in education, careers, and life.

Thank you to Apollo Opportunity Foundation and Athene for investing in Iowa's future and for being valued partners in this important work.

🌟 Senior Spotlight: Peace Mbuyi 🌟

Today, we're proud to celebrate Peace Mbuyi, a graduating senior from Cedar Rapids

This fall, Peace will attend the University of Iowa, where she plans to study Psychology. Her goal is to one day work in government, advocacy, or leadership, making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Among her many accomplishments, Peace is especially proud of creating the Play It Forward: Athletic Closet and representing iJAG on the national stage at NCDC, where she and her team earned 2nd place nationally for their L.O.V.E. Project.

When asked what advice she'd give future iJAG students, Peace shared:

💙 "You don't have to have your whole life figured out yet. iJAG showed me that it's easier to move forward when you're open to the unknown instead of tied down to what you know. Your future can change at any moment, and sometimes the best opportunities come from the paths you never planned for."

Peace, your passion for helping others and your willingness to embrace new opportunities will take you far. We can't wait to see the impact you'll make!

Want to support iJAG and enjoy an amazing week of golf at the same time? ⛳

We’re participating in Birdies for Charity through the Principal Charity Classic, giving you the opportunity to support Iowa non-profits & earn up to $10,000 in guaranteed matching funds for iJAG students.

Join us June 10–14 at Wakonda Club! Every gift is matched & helps us continue empowering students for success in school, work, and life.

Donate here: ijag.org/donate

We recently had the opportunity to attend the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Conference and connect with business, education, and workforce leaders from across Iowa who share a commitment to strengthening our state's future workforce.

Our partnerships with ABI & Kuder help to create meaningful career exploration opportunities for iJAG students. Together, we're connecting young people to professions, industries, and pathways that align with their interests, skills, and goals.

When education and industry come together, students gain the knowledge, experiences, and connections they need to thrive after graduation. Thank you to ABI and Kuder for helping make those connections possible!

A huge THANK YOU to several of our inaugural iJAG iMPACT Invitational sponsors! 👏

We’re grateful for partners helping launch this brand-new event and investing in opportunities for Iowa students.

Thank you for being part of Year One. Marzetti NCMIC Availa Bank B&G Foods Inc. Bayer

Want to golf? Learn more: ijag.org/events/ijag-impact-invitational

🎓 Congratulations, Great Oaks Graduates! 🎓

We celebrate your hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments. Your journey to this milestone has been filled with growth, determination, and countless successes—and this is only the beginning.

iJAG is proud to partner with Great Oaks High School & Career Center Des Moines Campus and support students as they prepare for bright futures. We can't wait to see where your talents, skills, and ambitions take you next.

As you take your next steps, know that we're cheering you on every step of the way. Your future is bright, and we know you'll continue to make a positive impact in your communities and beyond.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! 🌟

Did you know?

iJAG serves more than 11,000 students across Iowa and Illinois each year, helping young people develop career readiness skills, explore career pathways, connect with employers, and prepare for successful futures.

Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, work-based learning opportunities, and individualized support, iJAG is empowering the next generation of leaders, workers, and community members.

Together, we're building stronger students, stronger communities, and a stronger workforce.
https://youtu.be/nHcpdUDZsW4?si=IiN7p_B7tVbvfb33

⛳ Big news! iJAG is proud to be part of Birdies for Charity through the Principal Charity Classic!

This incredible program gives supporters the chance to help Iowa students while increasing their impact through donations. Every gift is matched & helps us continue preparing students for successful futures through leadership development, career readiness, and work-based learning opportunities.

Catch us at the Wakonda Club June 10 - 14 for the Principal Charity Classic, a PGA TOUR Champions event!

Have your impact doubled by making a gift today! ijag.org/donate