Alyssa Saunders

Vice president of operations, Anthologic

Age: 37

Education: University of Iowa, B.A. psychology; Marketing Strategy Certification, Cornell; Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter, The Institutes; West Des Moines Leadership Academy; Leadership Iowa - current class

Husband: Blake Saunders

Children: Brielle Saunders, Braxton Saunders

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Tell us some of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

I serve on the board for the Science Center of Iowa.

I was the recipient of the CPCU Excellence award in 2018 for my Good Works contributions.

I volunteer for Women Lead Change.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My biggest passion is driving progress — getting things done and making things better. I thrive on solving challenges, improving processes and helping people unlock their potential. I do this because I believe in leaving things better than I found them, creating lasting impact and empowering others to succeed.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Success, to me, is about progress and impact. If I’ve learned something new, improved a process, or helped someone else succeed or learn, I consider it a win. It’s not just about reaching goals but making a meaningful difference along the way.

Tell us about an issue you think more people should know about.

Talent development is crucial as we navigate a workforce with an unprecedented mix of generations and experience levels. Without intentional efforts to prepare the next generation, we risk significant leadership gaps during critical transitions.

What's an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?

In 2015, an impaired driver crashed into our home during a police chase. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the house was lost. Rebuilding shifted my perspective and highlighted how unpredictable life really is. It taught me to focus on what matters, embrace challenges and be grateful through it all.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I aspire to drive meaningful impact through mentorship and leadership development, with a focus on empowering women. I’m passionate about creating opportunities for growth, fostering supportive communities and helping individuals navigate challenges. Long term, I hope to launch initiatives that help people confidently pursue their goals.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

My advice to a young professional would be to focus more on moving forward and taking chances than on always being "right." It can feel like everyone else has the answers, but being brave enough to try, learn from mistakes and adapt is what truly drives growth and success.

What's one regular habit that's made you successful?

One habit that has made me successful is approaching everything like it’s a lesson, always looking for what I can learn, no matter the outcome. I also make it a point to tidy up my space before I leave it every day — whether at home or work — to start the next day on the right foot.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

I would like to see Central Iowa leaders focus on preserving what makes the region a great place to live and raise a family. By maintaining strong schools, public policies and community services, along with a strong economy, we can ensure sustainable growth and continue providing a high quality of life for residents.

What's one fun fact about you?

I have never broken a bone (knock on wood).

Hobbies:

Yoga, driving my kids to practice, cooking.

What is one word that best describes you?

Determined.

What’s one food (meal, snack, dessert, whatever!) you think people must try in the Des Moines area?

Nachos from G. Mig’s.

What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?

I was traveling recently and ran into someone from Iowa. I did not know them but within a minute of talking we came up with four mutual connections. I think that happens every time I leave the state!

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

Trying new foods at the state fair.