WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (November 19, 2025) — Jason Semprini PhD MPP, assistant professor of public health at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences, was named to the inaugural cohort of AcademyHealth's Champions for Health Services and Prevention Research program. Supported by the Doris Duke Foundation, the program will foster connections between researchers and policymakers in communities across the nation.

ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (November 19, 2025) — The YWCA Quad Cities invites families and community members to warm up this winter at Splashing Through the Snow, a festive indoor event held at the YWCA’s Aquatic Center. This family-friendly celebration brings together holiday fun, creative activities, and aquatic adventures, all in a cozy, snow-free environment.

Guests of all ages can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities, including:

Back row (left to right): Parker Sperfslage, Nicholas Raine, Addison Phillips, and Kerrigan Lyons. Front row (left to right): Katie Hilton, Kylie Buchholz , Lexi Cahoy, and Shelby Channel

WAVERLY, IOWA (November 18, 2025) — Shelby Channel, of Davenport, Iowa, was inducted into the Iota Chapter of the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education at Wartburg College on November 12.

ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (November 18, 2025) — Augustana College has appointed Eric Newell as director of choral activities beginning fall 2026.

Newell’s duties will include conducting the Augustana Choir, succeeding longtime conductor Dr Jon Hurty, who is retiring in June 2026.

“Eric Newell is a high-caliber musician, a thoughtful leader and a generous teacher," said Dr Jacob Bancks, co-chair of Augustana’s music department.