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As winter's chill fades, ɬ�﷬ bursts into life with the energy and vibrancy of spring. Students step out of hibernation, filling campus spaces with movement, music, and celebration

ɬ�﷬’s capacity building role for the ɬ�﷬ Education Partnership (GEP) has helped make many of these collaborations possible. Through this network, GCELC has benefited from strong cross-sector partnerships, expanded resources, and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for local children.

Sarah Smith, director of Outreach Programming and Events, discusses her role at ɬ�﷬ and her connections to the community.

Ballet Des Moines debuted its performance of “See the Music (Hear the Dance)” on Feb. 20 at ɬ�﷬ High School. The event, a collaboration with the Civic Music Association, and presented by ɬ�﷬, featured a company of 22 professional dancers and live musicians on stage, including the renowned Aizuri Quartet and pianist Douglas-Jayd Burn.

Students at ɬ�﷬ have been putting their passion for animals into action through a collaboration with the Poweshiek Animal League Shelter (PALS), a local nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehoming animals. In partnership with PALS, ɬ�﷬ students have been socializing and helping dogs learn basic manners in order to give them a better chance of finding loving, forever homes.

Monica Sanders, the inaugural Social Innovator in Residence, will be in residency March 24 – May 10. Her residency is a keystone of ɬ�﷬’s commitment to advancing social justice and civic engagement, providing a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and meaningful community impact.

This photo essay explores the beauty of winter, the joy of learning, and the vibrant moments that make ɬ�﷬ come alive in the heart of the season!

With the year 2024 behind us, this photo essay reminds us of the connections made throughout ɬ�﷬’s campus and around the town of ɬ�﷬. Each month marks a moment — whether an accomplishment, a successful collaboration, or a celebration — that will go forth into the new year.

Recognizing that nonprofits play a critical role in advancing education, the arts, and accessibility, the program also aims to build their organizational and financial capacity to serve the ɬ�﷬ area effectively.