Ana Hernandez Eveland: A Voice of the Valley

Ana Hernandez Eveland: A Voice of the Valley

For Ana Hernandez Eveland, the Cedar Valley was supposed to be the next stop after growing up in a small Iowa town. Instead, it became the place where she would build a career, put down roots, and find a community of her own.

Ana lived in Mexico until she was seven, when her family moved to Charles City, Iowa. She stayed there until 2017, when she moved to the Cedar Valley to attend the University of Northern Iowa.

Coming from a community like Charles City, the Cedar Valley initially felt like it was going to be a big change.

“Coming from a small town like Charles City, I had some fear about how big the Cedar Valley would feel compared to what I was used to,” Ana said. “I worried it might feel more impersonal or harder to connect with people.”

Those concerns didn’t last long. After arriving, Ana found that many of the qualities she appreciated about growing up in a small town were still present throughout the Cedar Valley. The friendliness she expected to leave behind was found immediately in everyday interactions.

“I was surprised to find that same friendliness I grew up with was still here, whether it’s walking into a store or being out and about in the downtown areas!” she said.

She also discovered a community that was more diverse and engaged than she initially expected. As she became more involved, the Cedar Valley began to feel less like the larger community she had worried about and more like a place where she could make an impact.

Ana Hernandez Eveland: A Voice of the Valley

That connection grew stronger as Ana built her career and relationships throughout the region. Today, she works as a Community Inclusion Strategist through Veridian Credit Union and as a Realtor with Vine Valley Real Estate—two roles that allow her to connect with people and help them work toward important goals in their lives.

“I love my career as Community Inclusion Strategist through Veridian Credit Union and as a Realtor with Vine Valley Real Estate,” Ana said. “Being able to connect with people and help them work toward their goals is something I truly value.”

For Ana, that work is especially meaningful because it allows her to help people navigate important financial and homeownership decisions while also bridging language barriers.

“Through Veridian Credit Union, I help individuals reach their financial goals, and through Vine Valley Real Estate, I help people reach their homeownership goals,” she said. “Being able to bridge the language barrier in both of those fields is something I’m truly passionate about.”

For Ana, it was no longer a question that the Cedar Valley felt like home. As she and her husband, Gunnar, looked to the future, the question became whether the Cedar Valley was where they wanted to build their future.

Around 2020, the two began talking about buying a house. By then, they had careers they enjoyed and had become increasingly connected to the community around them. The more they thought about it, the clearer the decision felt.

“We both had careers that we truly enjoyed, and the more involved I got with the community, the more we realized the Cedar Valley was the right place to settle down,” Ana said.

Today, some of her favorite parts of living in the Cedar Valley are found outside of work. She enjoys walking and running on the area’s trails, kayaking, and supporting local restaurants and small businesses. For Ana, there’s always another corner of the community to discover.

“I love getting outside to walk/run on the trails, kayaking, and supporting local restaurants and small businesses,” she said. “There’s always something new to explore!”

Those experiences have helped shape her understanding of what makes the Cedar Valley special. It’s a place where she can pursue a career she loves while staying connected to the people and businesses around her.

And after initially wondering whether a larger community would make it harder to connect, Ana has found the opposite to be true. The relationships she’s built here have become one of the reasons she continues to stay.

“I’ve built amazing friendships and connections thanks to the Cedar Valley!” she said.

Those connections are a big part of what makes Ana want to keep investing in the community. Through both of her careers, she has found opportunities to help people navigate major milestones and work toward a future that fits their goals.

What began as a move to attend college has become something much more lasting. The Cedar Valley gave Ana the opportunity to build a career she loves, develop meaningful relationships, and create a home alongside her husband.

“I live in the Valley because it’s given me the chance to build a career I love, a community I care about, and a home where I can truly make a difference.”

Stephanie Detweiler: A Voice of the Valley

I am a Boomerang. Not in the literal sense (a curved throwing tool that comes back to you when you throw it), but in the metaphorical sense. I am someone who left the Cedar Valley to explore, grow, and see the world. I lived in other places (Los Angeles, the Quad Cities and Chicago) but I always knew I would come back because the Cedar Valley is my home and the place I wanted to build my family. I just needed to experience other things before I settled back here.

There are so many other people who live in the Cedar Valley and had similar experiences. They left to go to college, live in a big city, travel, see the world, and experience different cultures, but then they also came back home.

We are called “Boomerangs.”

When I moved back home 14 years ago, the biggest thing on my mind was, “How am I going to find a job that I love and that uses my talents?” I knew we were a heavy manufacturing community, but that wasn’t where my passion was. Fortunately, I was really lucky to find a job I loved in human resources, which eventually led me to Grow Cedar Valley.

I would guess there are many people from the Cedar Valley who moved away and would love to come back, but they have the same question I did 14 years ago: “What kind of career can I have in the Cedar Valley?”

That’s exactly why the Population Study mattered.

I had the opportunity to serve as the project manager for the Cedar Valley Population Study over the past year and a half, and it became one of the most meaningful projects of my career because I have lived this experience myself.

Count Me In: Population Study Reveal

Through the study, we found that many young people are leaving for cities like Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Chicago, and Minneapolis because they are looking for stronger career opportunities, higher wages, and more options for growth. Our consultants interviewed hundreds of former residents, many of whom actually wanted to stay in the Cedar Valley. But the most common reason they left was simple: they didn’t believe they could find the opportunities they were looking for here.

That should matter to all of us.

Because this community has so much to offer. We have incredible employers, innovative industries, and people who genuinely care about making this region better. Part of the challenge is visibility. Many people simply don’t realize the opportunities that already exist here.

But the study also challenged us to think bigger. If we want to attract and retain more people, we have to continue evolving. We need more high-paying career opportunities, more innovation, more technology, and more pathways for people to grow professionally without feeling like they have to leave to do it.

And honestly, I believe we can do that.

One of the most encouraging parts of this process was seeing how many people care deeply about the future of the Cedar Valley. There are creative, passionate leaders across this region who want this community to thrive and are willing to work together to make it happen.

The Population Study gave us more than research or data. It gave us direction. It gave us a shared understanding of where we need to go and what kind of community we want to become.

A place where people can leave, grow, explore, and experience the world if they choose to, but still see the Cedar Valley as a place worth coming home to….just like me.

Maoko Umeda: A Voice of the Valley

“Life here feels comfortable, and I feel like I can be myself.”

Maoko Umeda never expected Iowa to feel familiar.

Before moving to the Cedar Valley, she had spent most of her life in Kanagawa, Japan, a region located about two hours from Tokyo by train. When she learned she would be relocating to Cedar Falls through the Japan Outreach Initiative – a joint program by the Japan Foundation and the Laurasian Institution that promotes Japanese culture across the United States – she admits she knew very little about the place she would soon call home.

“To be honest, I had never heard of Cedar Falls when I was first told I would be coming to Iowa,” Maoko said. “At that time, I simply hoped that I could enjoy my two-year term and make the most of the experience.”

Assigned to the University of Northern Iowa as a Japanese Outreach Initiative Coordinator, Maoko arrived in the Cedar Valley prepared for a cultural adjustment. What she did not anticipate was how quickly the community itself would become one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

At first, everyday life in Iowa felt dramatically different from what she had known in Japan.

“I was surprised that there are no trains, how wide the roads are, and how vast the cornfields are,” she said. “Most of all, I was truly surprised by how kind and welcoming people are.”

That warmth became foundational as she adjusted to life in a new country, language, and culture.

“I think it started to feel like home after about a year,” Maoko said. “At first, I couldn’t speak much English and everything felt new and overwhelming, so I was always a bit nervous. Over time, the warmth of the people here made me feel at ease.”

Through her work at UNI, Maoko helps share Japanese culture throughout the Cedar Valley by organizing workshops, educational events, and community programs with local organizations including libraries and art centers. All the chances she had to share her life and culture became opportunities to find her own sense of belonging here in the Cedar Valley.

“Through those opportunities, I was able to connect with many people in the community, who have been incredibly kind and supportive,” she said.

For Maoko, one of the defining characteristics of the Cedar Valley is the way community spaces naturally bring people together. She has grown to love exploring local events, spending time in libraries and art centers, and simply enjoying the quiet rhythms of Cedar Falls.

“I also love simply taking walks and appreciating the peaceful atmosphere of Cedar Falls,” she said. “It gives me time to reflect and recharge.”

Living in the Cedar Valley has also reshaped her personally and professionally. Experiencing American culture firsthand challenged her to adapt to entirely new ways of communicating, working, and connecting with others.

“Before coming here, I had lived my entire life in Japan, so the values, work style, and ways of interacting with others were all very different from what I was used to,” Maoko said. “These new experiences have made me more flexible and open-minded.”

The experience has also inspired her future goals. After returning to Japan later this year, she hopes to continue building bridges between the two countries and cultures that have shaped her life.

“These experiences inspired me to pursue a future where I can help connect Japan and the United States,” she said.

Although her current program is scheduled to end in July, leaving the Cedar Valley will not be easy.

“Life here feels comfortable, and I feel like I can be myself,” Maoko said. “I truly hope to come back again in the future.”

For someone who arrived in Iowa without expectations and thousands of miles away from home, the Cedar Valley ultimately became something much deeper than a temporary assignment. It became a place of belonging.

“I Live the Valley because it is a place where people welcome you with warmth, and where I found a sense of belonging far from home.”

— Maoko Umeda, Japanese Outreach Initiative Coordinator | University of Northern Iowa

Why Your Budget Goes Further in the Cedar Valley

Living in a place where everyday life is affordable changes the way people experience their community.

You can grab coffee downtown before work, spend the weekend at a local concert or farmers market, sign the kids up for activities, meet friends for dinner, and still feel like there’s room in the budget to enjoy the things that make life great. That balance is part of what continues to draw people to the Cedar Valley and one of the reasons affordability continues to matter so much when people decide where to build their future.

A recent report from the Common Sense Institute examined how much income Americans have left after paying for essential expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, childcare, insurance, and taxes. The study ranked Iowa as the most affordable state in the country in 2025, reporting that Iowa households retain roughly 35% of their income after covering those necessary costs.

Across the Cedar Valley, residents are building lives that reflect that same balance.

Room in the Budget for Real Life

Affordability shapes everyday life in ways that extend far beyond monthly expenses. It influences where people choose to live, how they spend their time, and whether they feel connected to the community around them.

According to the 2025/2026 Cedar Valley Fact Sheet published by Grow Cedar Valley, the overall cost of living in the Cedar Valley is 10.3% lower than the national average, with housing costs sitting 12.1% lower and utilities 19.3% lower.

Residents can spend less time stressing about monthly expenses and more time enjoying the community around them. First-time homebuyers can realistically picture themselves owning a home, while young professionals can build a career and still have room for weekend plans, travel, hobbies, and nights out with friends.

“The Cedar Valley is easy to grow roots in. There’s a good cost of living, it’s easy to get to work, and you’ve got one of everything you want and need.” – Audrey Kittrell, President, Eagle View

Housing remains accessible for individuals and families looking to rent, buy a first home, or find a neighborhood that fits their stage of life. Short commute times create greater flexibility throughout the day and allow more time to spend at home, outdoors, or with friends and family.

At the same time, Grow Cedar Valley continues working to address long-term housing and workforce needs identified through the Count Me In Population Study, including housing availability, housing costs, workforce growth, and efforts to support competitive wages as the Cedar Valley grows.

Affordability also plays an important role in supporting local businesses and community growth. When residents have room in their budgets beyond essential expenses, they are able to spend more within the communities where they live and work. That continued support helps strengthen restaurants, retailers, entertainment venues, service providers, and small businesses across the Cedar Valley.

Beyond the 9 to 5

The Cedar Valley offers the kind of lifestyle that keeps calendars full in the best way possible. One night might look like live music downtown after work. Another could mean a stop at the farmers market on Saturday morning, dinner on a patio with friends, or an evening walk along the trails before sunset. Across the region, community festivals, local coffee shops, recreational leagues, arts performances, and outdoor spaces create opportunities for people to stay connected and involved throughout the year.

The Cedar Valley is home to 96 public parks, more than 128 miles of paved biking and recreational trails, performing arts venues, museums, golf courses, pickleball courts, and nationally recognized downtown districts that give each community its own personality and rhythm.

That accessibility helps people participate in community life on a regular basis and build routines around the places, events, and experiences they enjoy most.

A Region Built for Opportunity

Affordability matters even more when paired with strong career opportunities, and the Cedar Valley continues to offer both.

Major employers across manufacturing, healthcare, finance, education, logistics, and technology support a broad range of careers throughout the region. According to the Cedar Valley Fact Sheet source, Lightcast, manufacturing remains one of the region’s largest industries, representing nearly 17% of the workforce with an average salary of more than $103,000 annually. Finance and insurance careers average more than $105,000 annually, while healthcare, transportation, retail, and logistics continue to provide strong career opportunities across the Cedar Valley.

The region also continues to invest in a strong talent pipeline through area school districts, Hawkeye Community College, Wartburg College, and the University of Northern Iowa, which enrolls more than 9,200 students annually. Across the Cedar Valley, education and workforce partnerships continue creating connections between classrooms, career pathways, internships, and long-term opportunities throughout the region.

The Kind of Place People Stay

The Common Sense Institute report points to something many Cedar Valley residents already know from everyday experience. Affordability shapes how people spend their time, where they put down roots, and how connected they feel to the community around them.

Short commutes create more time at home. Community events make it easier to stay involved. Local businesses, restaurants, parks, and recreation help turn ordinary weeks into something people genuinely look forward to.

“The Cedar Valley feels like a small town but has all the essentials. I can get just about anywhere in 10 or 15 minutes, and everything we need is right here. After I moved here, met my husband, and started my business, it just always felt like home.” – Amy Guenther, owner of Sweet Little You Photography

The Cedar Valley continues to attract people looking for a place where career opportunities, community connection, and everyday affordability all exist together in one region.

For a closer look at Cedar Valley housing, recreation, employers, and cost-of-living data, view the 2025–2026 Cedar Valley Fact Sheet.

The People Who Help Good Happen

Think of them as the “we know a place” friend of community service. You know the type. Need a great coffee shop? They have three ideas. Need a trusted mechanic? They know someone. Need a way to give back? The Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley is the local team helping connect people, businesses, and groups with volunteer opportunities across the Cedar Valley.

And behind that work are people who genuinely love helping others get involved. Lauren Finke, Jean Seeland, Kelsey Umthun, and the team spend their days connecting neighbors with causes, organizations, and opportunities that make our community stronger.

Where Good Intentions Find a Home

Some people want to mentor a student. Some want to help at a local event. Some want to gather coworkers for a service day and do something useful together.

That’s where Lauren, Jean, Kelsey, and the crew step in. They work with nonprofits, schools, and community groups across the region to match volunteers with opportunities that fit real schedules, interests, and comfort levels. No endless searching. No guessing where to start. Just real ways to pitch in close to home.

Why People Keep Saying Yes

Volunteering has a way of giving back. Lauren Finke, Executive Director, says, “One of the best things about volunteering is the opportunity to connect with someone else, learn something new, and provide your assistance.”

For newcomers, it can be one of the fastest ways to build roots. For longtime locals, it’s a reminder of how many good people live here.

Hidden Gems of Waverly, Iowa

By Chelsea Petersen, Executive Director, Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street

Waverly, Iowa has a way of surprising people.

Visitors often arrive for a tournament, a college visit, or a quick stop along Highway 218. What they discover is a vibrant community full of unexpected experiences, historic charm, outdoor adventure, and locally owned businesses that give Waverly its unmistakable character.

As the county seat of Bremer County, Waverly serves as both the civic and cultural hub for the region. But beyond the courthouse and city hall, there are countless hidden gems that make our community special.

Here are just a few worth discovering.

Wartburg College: The Heartbeat of Waverly

One of the things that makes Waverly unique is its strong connection to Wartburg College.

This nationally respected liberal arts college brings arts, athletics, music, and global perspectives into our community every day. From concerts and theatre performances to nationally competitive athletic programs, Wartburg adds energy and opportunity to life in Waverly.

The beautiful campus is just a short walk from downtown, and its students, faculty, and alumni help create the vibrant “college town” atmosphere that defines our community.

Outdoor Adventure Right in Town

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn just how much there is to do outdoors in Waverly.

The Cedar River winds through our community, providing scenic trails, kayaking opportunities, and beautiful riverfront parks. If you’re looking to get out on the water, CrawDaddy Outdoors in downtown Waverly is a great place to start. The locally owned outdoor shop connects visitors and locals alike to paddling, river adventures, and outdoor gear across northeast Iowa.

Disc golf enthusiasts can head to Brookwood Park, where an 18-hole course offers a fun challenge for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Golfers also enjoy having two 18-hole golf courses right here in Waverly, offering beautiful tree-lined fairways and welcoming clubhouses.

And for those who enjoy motorsports and outdoor recreation, Newy’s Moto reflects another side of Waverly’s adventurous spirit, serving riders and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.

With more than 20 parks and miles of recreational trails, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring Waverly outside.

Historic Downtown: Where Local Businesses Shine

Waverly’s historic downtown along Bremer Avenue is full of locally owned businesses that make the community feel welcoming and vibrant.

The Palace Theatre

There’s something magical about catching a movie at the historic Palace Theatre. This beautifully restored downtown theater blends nostalgia with modern comfort, creating a unique moviegoing experience that you simply won’t find at a big multiplex.

Bremer Brewing Company

If you’re looking for a place where locals gather, you’ll likely find it at Bremer Brewing Company. What started as a home-brewing hobby has grown into a thriving craft brewery where friends meet, stories are shared, and new beers are always on tap.

Get Roasted Coffee Co. & thinkwell.

Morning in Waverly often begins with coffee downtown. Get Roasted Coffee Co. has become a favorite meeting place for everything from casual conversations to early-morning work sessions.

Just a few doors away, thinkwell. focuses on the art of roasting coffee in small batches, sourcing unique beans from around the world and bringing a craft approach to every cup.

Shopping & Dining

Downtown Waverly offers a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences.

You’ll find The Prairie Bee, a beautifully curated antique shop where visitors can discover vintage treasures, timeless décor, and one-of-a-kind finds that make every visit a little different.

For something truly special, Tenenbaum’s Jewelry has earned a reputation as a destination jeweler, attracting customers from across the region with its exceptional selection and trusted service.

When it’s time to eat, restaurants like Wild Carrot highlight Waverly’s growing food scene with fresh ingredients and creative menus. In fact, Wild Carrot earned recognition in 2025 for serving the Best Omelette, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

And for a longtime local favorite, Z’s Pizza & Diner continues to be a go-to stop for families, students, and anyone craving a classic slice.

Manufacturing You Can Smell (Literally)

Waverly is also home to companies whose impact reaches far beyond our city limits.

If you’ve ever driven through town and wondered why the air smells like chocolate, you’re probably near the Nestlé plant, one of Waverly’s largest employers. Locals often joke that some days the whole town smells like a candy factory.

Another well-known company with deep Waverly roots is Rada Cutlery. What began as a small knife-making business after World War II has grown into one of the most successful American kitchen knife manufacturers, with products sold across the country.

These companies are a reminder that Waverly blends small-town charm with global reach.

More Hidden Gems to Discover

Of course, those are only the beginning.

Visitors exploring Waverly often discover scenic river views in Kohlmann Park, community programming and beautiful spaces at the Waverly Public Library, and art installations and murals scattered throughout downtown.

Throughout the year, Waverly also comes alive with community events like Art Walk, Ridiculous Days, and Christmas Greetings on Main, celebrations that bring neighbors, visitors, and local businesses together.

What truly makes Waverly special are the entrepreneurs, business owners, volunteers, and community partners who invest their time, talent, and passion into this place every day.

Come Discover Waverly

Waverly may not always be the biggest dot on the map, but it’s full of experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, attending an event at Wartburg College, or simply passing through northeast Iowa, we invite you to explore the hidden gems that make Waverly special.

You just might find yourself planning your next visit before you even leave.

 

A Voice of the Valley: Simon Campbell

“What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.”

Hi, my name is Simon Campbell, and this is why I Live the Valley.

Live the Valley. Voice of the Valley Simon Campbell

My family moved to the Cedar Valley in 2022. My wife and I, along with our two young daughters, were stepping into a new season, drawn here by two things: an opportunity to serve at Prairie Lakes Church and a desire to live closer to family. We have siblings who had already landed in the area, and we wanted our girls to grow up enjoying their cousins, aunts, and uncles as a part of everyday life.

We moved here to be closer to family. What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.

The Cedar Valley is the kind of place that invites you into the story right away. It draws you in and gives you a sense of ownership and impact early. We weren’t treated like outsiders trying to find our place. Any way we looked to get involved through church, school organizations, community events, or local initiatives – our contribution was welcomed. There’s something powerful about living in a place where your presence matters right away.

I love that I get to work for a church that carries that same spirit.

Prairie Lakes Church exists to be a “no matter” church: no matter who you are, where you’ve been, what you’ve done, or what’s been done to you – God loves you, and you can look for him at Prairie Lakes. And that’s not just something we say, it’s something we live by. You can feel that the moment you walk through the doors. As a multi-site church of seven campuses, we’re committed not only to serving this region but to covering the state with churches, creating communities where people can look for God no matter what. 

It’s not lost on me that the heartbeat behind that mission feels very Cedar Valley. Outward-facing. Community-minded. Willing to invest beyond itself.

Outside of work, we’ve fallen in love with the everyday rhythms of life here. We live near the downtown district in Cedar Falls, and on summer evenings, we often just step outside and go wherever the live music takes us. It feels like there’s always something happening: festivals, markets, concerts – tons of great reasons to get out and try something new. The downtown districts in both Cedar Falls and Waterloo create spaces where people actually linger. You’re increasingly greeted by familiar faces, invited into conversations, and you really start to feel known.

We love being outdoors, too. Having a state park woven right into the midst of our community makes it feel like you’re only ever a few steps away from nature at any time. We’ve loved exploring the extensive trail systems from behind strollers, then scooters, and now family bike rides. I even commute to work by bike in the warmer months. We fish the local waters, rotate playing at all the parks, and take full advantage of the green spaces that make this area feel both connected and wide open at the same time.

One of the unexpected joys for me has been doing some content creation work to support Live the Valley. There’s something special about capturing the heart of a community while you’re still learning to become part of it yourself. Through the lens, I’ve seen firsthand the culture and commitment to community that define this place. 

We came here for family and an opportunity, but we’ve thrived because this place invites you to belong, to contribute, and to build something meaningful. Our experience has cultivated a quiet sense of pride that makes us eager to answer the question, “Where are you guys living now?”

The Cedar Valley isn’t just where we moved.

It’s where we’re planting roots.

And that’s why I Live the Valley.

Simon Campbell

Count Me In: A Local Response to a Statewide Talent Challenge

New research from the Common Sense Institute (CSI) confirms what many communities across Iowa have felt for years. Too many graduates are leaving the state, and the economic consequences are significant.

According to the analysis, Iowa’s long-term out-migration of public university graduates has resulted in an estimated $96 billion in lost earnings. The ripple effects touch workforce availability, tax revenue, and long-term growth.

The challenge is real. But here in the Cedar Valley, we’re not waiting to react.

Through the Count Me In Population Study, Grow Cedar Valley is taking a proactive, data-driven approach to understanding who we are, who we’re losing, and what it will take to keep people here in the Cedar Valley.

Graduate Retention Starts With Belonging

The CSI report shows that only about half of Iowa’s public university graduates remain in the state ten years after graduation, even though roughly three-quarters of students are Iowa residents. From 2001 to 2021, the state lost a net 68,000 graduates compared to expected retention levels.

What we’re seeing in the data matches what we hear in conversations every day. Feeling welcome and building connections play a big role in whether people stay.

That’s why one the Population Study’s Big Bet 3 focuses on Careers Worth Staying For. This work is centered on helping students and early-career professionals see clear paths forward here through stronger career visibility, employer engagement, and opportunities to build connections early. Efforts like newcomer programming, young professional engagement, and closer ties between employers and the community help people form roots sooner, when decisions about where to build a life are still taking shape.

Retention Is an Economic Strategy

The Population Study treats population growth and retention as an economic development issue that touches nearly every part of the region. A steady population supports business growth, talent recruitment, housing demand, and local investment.

This is where Big Bet 2: Innovation that Competes comes into focus. The study calls for strengthening the types of industries, roles, and opportunities that allow people to build careers over time. Supporting business evolution, entrepreneurship, and higher-value work helps create an economy where people can see long-term opportunity and choose to stay.

Keeping Graduates Benefits Everyone

The report also outlines the fiscal impact of graduate loss, estimating that Iowa could be collecting hundreds of millions more each year in state and local tax revenue if retention rates were higher.

At the regional level, the Population Study helps communities understand how population trends affect everything from infrastructure and services to school enrollment and local investment. Retaining graduates strengthens the tax base, supports public services, and helps communities plan with confidence.

This work is about long-term stability, not quick fixes.

Turning Data Into Action

At the center of this work is Big Bet 1: One Vision, One Valley, which focuses on acting as one region with shared priorities and a clear sense of direction. The Population Study calls for stronger regional coordination, shared priorities, and a clearer narrative about who we are and where we’re headed. When communities, employers, educators, and partners move in the same direction, the Cedar Valley is better positioned to compete and follow through on long-term goals.

Through Count Me In, Grow Cedar Valley and regional partners are already moving forward with strategies that support talent retention, early connection, and regional alignment. Tools like Live the Valley, Cedar Valley Young Professionals, employer education, and community events all play a role in translating data into lived experience.

“The CSI report confirms the scale of the challenge Iowa is facing. The Population Study shows how the Cedar Valley is stepping up to meet it.” – Katy Susong, President & CEO | Grow Cedar Valley

The work ahead will take collaboration, consistency, and commitment. But by understanding our population today and planning intentionally for tomorrow, the Cedar Valley is positioning itself to keep talent here, not just educate it and watch it leave.

Want to Bring this Conversation to Your Organization?

If you would like Grow Cedar Valley to present the Population Study findings and the 3 Big Bets to your business or organization, please fill out this form to get started.

PRESENTATION REQUEST FORM

More information on next steps and additional ways to stay engaged will be shared soon. In the meantime, thank you for showing up, leaning in, and contributing to an important conversation about what comes next for our region. We’re grateful for your interest, your time, and your commitment to the Cedar Valley.

New Hampton, Iowa: Best Kept Secrets

New Hampton may be small, but its charm runs deep. From locally loved restaurants and family-friendly attractions to peaceful nature escapes and unique shopping experiences, these best-kept secrets are what make the community truly special. Whether you’re visiting for a day, staying for a weekend, or lucky enough to call New Hampton home, it’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression—and keeps people coming back for more.

Klunder’s Kafe
A hometown staple known for classic comfort food and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where locals gather and visitors instantly feel welcome.

Poor Richard’s
A go-to spot for a relaxed meal and great conversation. With its casual atmosphere and loyal following, it’s a true local favorite.

Crystal Ball Roller Sk8ing Rink & Bowlaway Lanes & Lounge
Old-school fun that never goes out of style. These family-friendly spots bring generations together for skating, bowling, and memorable nights out.

Twin Ponds Nature Center
A peaceful escape just minutes from town. With scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and educational opportunities, it’s a hidden gem for nature lovers.

New Hampton Splash Pad & Pool
A summer must-visit for families. This well-loved community amenity offers fun, affordable recreation for kids and a place to cool off on hot Iowa days.

Mennonite Greenhouses
A true Northeast Iowa treasure. People travel from miles away to shop these greenhouses, known for exceptional plants, quality, and a unique shopping experience you won’t find just anywhere.

TRIBE Trail
A growing recreational asset that connects the community. Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors while showcasing New Hampton’s commitment to health and quality of life.

Downtown New Hampton
Charming, walkable, and full of character. Downtown features local businesses, historic buildings, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Union Block Suites
A beautifully restored historic building offering boutique-style lodging. It blends timeless character with modern comfort—ideal for visitors looking for something special.

Community Spirit
The best secret of all. From events to everyday interactions, New Hampton’s sense of pride and friendliness is something you truly have to experience.

For more information on New Hampton, please visit www.newhamptonia.com

Megan Baltes| New Hampton Economic Development

A Voice of the Valley: Haley Hamm

“Somewhere between my first day of college and my first coffee run downtown, the Cedar Valley became home.”

Hi, my name is Haley Hamm, and this is why I Live the Valley.

I came to the University of Northern Iowa in 2022 with a plan: earn my degree and see where life took me next. What I didn’t expect was that the Cedar Valley would quietly become home, and that staying would feel less like a decision and more like a calling.

From the very beginning, there was something about this place that felt steady and welcoming. The Cedar Valley has a way of making you feel known. People take the time to connect, encourage, and cheer you on, no matter who you are or where you’re headed. That sense of community is what first drew me in, and it’s the reason I’ve chosen to build my life here.

My story in the Cedar Valley is deeply tied to the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. I first learned about the JPEC while I was still in high school, and on my very first day at UNI, I began working there as a Marketing Assistant. After graduating, I was offered the opportunity to continue my professional journey as the Marketing and Events Coordinator.

Today, I get to work with student entrepreneurs and create spaces where their ideas, talents, and hard work can shine. Marketing and events are about creating experiences that bring people together, and there is something incredibly special about doing that work in a place that genuinely values connection.

I came to college with a heart for event planning, and through the JPEC, that passion became clearer and more purposeful. I began to see weddings not just as events, but as stories and moments that deserve care, creativity, and intention. During college, I started coordinating weddings as a side business. Throughout the process, I learned how to balance creativity with strategy and passion with professionalism, all within a community that truly supports small businesses and big dreams.

Outside of work, it’s the everyday moments that make the Cedar Valley feel like home. If you know me, you know I almost always have a coffee in hand. Sidecar, Sarah’s Crafted Coffee & Cocktails, and The Savvy Bean are some of my favorites. Each space is different, yet equally welcoming, and I think that’s what makes the Cedar Valley so unique. I could spend hours in a downtown coffee shop window seat working, reading, or doing a Bible study with friends.

I also love staying active, whether that’s a pop-up workout in the downtown green space on a Saturday morning, a class at FIT, or simply going for a walk with friends. Movement feels safe and refreshing here, and there are so many opportunities to stay active.

My weekends often include wandering downtown Main Street, shopping local boutiques, visiting the farmers market in the summer for fresh eggs and banana bread, or grabbing dinner at George’s Local or Urban Pie. I love a patio, no matter how hot or how cold it is.

In the summer, you’ll almost always find me at the Prairie Lakes Trail, from walking the path, to sitting and watching others fish, or lying out a blanket and journaling on the hill. Some of my favorite memories and conversations have happened there. I also enjoy playing pickleball, and I will never say no to an ice cream cone from Four Queens.

Live music is another favorite, and one of the things I love most about the Cedar Valley is how easily accessible it is, from festivals and outdoor events to local restaurants hosting bands. The community continually creates opportunities to gather, celebrate, and connect. 

The Cedar Valley isn’t flashy, and that’s part of its beauty. It’s warm, steady, and full of people who care deeply about where they live and the people around them. It’s a place where I’ve grown into myself, personally, professionally, and creatively.

I didn’t just land here. I chose to stay.
And every day, the Cedar Valley reminds me why.

– Haley Hamm, Marketing and Events Coordinator | John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)