Vision

A state where every Iowan is engaged in their community and shaping our collective future.

Mission

Our mission is to support healthy communication for participatory decision-making. We leverage resources to train and connect community members and organizations to lead transformational discussions about issues that matter.


We Offer

We focus on

  • Techniques for leading effective community engagement efforts
  • Sharing unbiased information about current issues
  • Connecting great ideas with next steps toward action

"What's Next, Iowa? is a partnership sponsored by the University of Iowa's Department of Communication Studies and Office of Outreach and Engagement and Iowa Campus Compact. 


Our steering Committee includes:

    • Nicholas Benson 
      • Director of Community Outreach and Development
      • University of Iowa, Office of Outreach and Engagement
    • Emily Shields
      • Executive Director
      • Iowa Campus Compact
    • David Supp-Montgomerie
      • Visiting Assistant Professor and Director, Iowa Program for Public Life
      • University of Iowa, Department of Communication Studies

    Contact us for more information and to get involved


    Special Thanks to Betty Knighton of the West Virginia Center for Civic Life for the inspiring work of "What's Next, West Virginia?" Because of her tireless work since 1998 citizens in several states are meeting to talk about their collective future in a better way.