Danielle Propst

Planner, ISG

Age: 31

Education: Iowa State University: Bachelor of Science, community and regional planning, and Bachelor of Science, anthropology; certificate, leadership studies

Boyfriend: Andrew Kline

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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

As board chair-elect of Lead DSM and an alumna of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute and Community Connect program, I actively cultivate leadership development, engagement and involvement in the Des Moines community.

I have dedicated over a decade to mentoring and motivating young women through the American Legion Auxiliary Iowa Girls State program, empowering future civic leaders. 

I drive community revitalization through strategic planning, targeted grants and public-private partnerships to foster sustainable economic growth with three Iowa APA Economic Development Planning Awards for projects that have reshaped communities like Le Mars, Bondurant and Orange City.

As a member of the Iowa/Nebraska Employee Stock Ownership Plan Association Executive Committee, I advance employee ownership culture, fostering engagement and leadership in the workplace and beyond.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

My passion was instilled in me by a message I learned from my parents growing up in rural Marshalltown, Iowa: to give my best effort to all I do and give back to my community. I thrive best when collaborating and immersing myself in projects that aim to do this and believe that if you’re going to do something, you should be all in.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Success isn’t a single milestone — it’s aligning daily actions with values. Professionally, I find this alignment in autonomy, collaboration and working on meaningful projects. Personally, I measure success by progressing equity, inclusion and giving back to my community through leadership development and civic engagement.

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

Understanding your community and knowing ways you can make a difference. Civic engagement — especially empowering young women to navigate that space — can create lasting change.

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

Hearing a community development specialist speak to my cultural anthropology class at Iowa State University was a turning point. It opened my eyes to how people and the environment intersect, sparking my passion for community and regional planning and setting me on a path to create meaningful, people-centered solutions.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I aspire to drive thoughtful economic development in Iowa’s rural communities, tackling key challenges like affordable housing, child care and downtown revitalization. By combining professional expertise and personal passion, I hope to create lasting, community-driven solutions that strengthen and sustain the places so many Iowans call home.

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

Say yes to opportunities. Try everything until you find what excites you. If you don’t see a clear path, identify a need and create your own solution — become invaluable by seeking out people who can answer your questions.

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

Traveling and immersing myself in different environments. Seeing how things are done elsewhere inspires me to think differently and create better experiences for people. This has been incredibly informative in my work guiding communities to envision and plan for their future.

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

The Des Moines’ housing crisis merits more conversation, attention and innovative solutions and partnerships. There is a critical need for more attainable options across the spectrum — from townhomes and single-family homes to senior living and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Housing should be accessible to all.

What's one fun fact about you?

My community engagement started early — I was in a local commercial for an aquatic center bond referendum as a child. Spoiler: It passed!

Hobbies:

Traveling, cheering on the Cyclones, being my godson's No. 1 fan at his T-ball and soccer games.

What is one word that best describes you?

Perceptive.

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

An old-fashioned from the New Northwestern in the East Village — classic, smooth and expertly crafted. And a two-minute walk from my office.

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

While volunteering at an Iowa State College of Engineering resume review, a student sheepishly admitted he’d “snuck in” — only to find out I wasn’t an engineer either! Turns out, he was an urban planning student, and we ended up having a great conversation. Sometimes the best connections happen by accident!

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

As a season ticket holder at the Des Moines Civic Center, I love experiencing live musicals — recently, “Moulin Rouge” and “Ain’t Too Proud: Life and Times of the Temptations” shows were entertaining highlights!