Jessi McQuerrey
Director of programs, Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation
Age: 35
Husband: K.J. McQuerrey
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
For 10 years, I have served Iowans through statewide programs designed to connect, educate and inspire high school students (Business Horizons), college students (Leadership Iowa University), and Iowa business and community leaders (Leadership Iowa).
I have a passion for valuable learning opportunities for Iowa high school students and volunteer for a number of educational initiatives, from career and technical student organizations to the Iowa Department of Education.
I am an advocate for fostering leadership across Iowa and supporting organizations and initiatives such as the national Association of Leadership Programs and Empower Rural Iowa. I also serve as chair for the Young Professionals of Iowa.
She strives to lift up individuals of all ages and enjoys speaking on topics related to leadership, imposter syndrome, personal strengths, communication and more.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My passion lies in empowering others and creating environments where everyone can show up as their authentic selves and feel seen, heard and valued. I'm an “includer” at heart, so I gravitate toward opportunities to foster supportive communities where our differences are celebrated and allow us to grow together.
What are your goals in your role at work?
My role has allowed me insight into game-changing initiatives and the opportunity to meet talented, caring people throughout Iowa. I look forward to continuing to shine a spotlight on the people and work that make Iowa great, particularly in our rural communities, and collaborating in new ways to expand our opportunities for Iowans.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
I love serving as a connector. I'm excited to help strengthen ties within Iowa's leadership program network, as well as our young professionals organizations. Additionally, when our young people see our investment in them, it sets our future up for success, so I hope to help enhance the business-education partnerships across Iowa.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
One of our amazing Leadership Iowa participants was called to courageously address her school board about the need for increased mental health support in our schools. That evening, her classmates showed up from across Iowa to support her three minutes of comments. When she finished, I watched them exit out of multiple rows, one by one. I remember saying out loud through tears, “That is Leadership Iowa.”
What are your aspirations for the future?
My goal is to continue learning from and surrounding myself with people I admire, and doing all that I can to impact the lives of others in a positive way. I have a variety of causes I'm passionate about, from empowering women and girls to heart and brain/mental health to pet adoption. I tell students to “try to be the reason why someone enjoys their job today.” So that's my plan for tomorrow.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Leadership is not measured by numbers – accolades, degrees, titles, etc. You are capable of making a difference exactly where you are with what you have. You don't have to do it all right now. Let yourself off the hook and dive into your passion(s) when it feels right. Remember: Generosity is leadership. Inclusion is leadership. Authenticity is leadership. Love is leadership.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
It's important to continually challenge ourselves to embrace innovative ways to solve community and statewide issues, and bring new and diverse voices into these conversations. We should not only be building Central Iowa as a hub for arts, culture and entrepreneurship, but also promoting this equally in our rural communities for our state to thrive. If we want to attract and retain citizens, we must work to cultivate inclusive communities and policies that allow all individuals in our state to feel safe and welcome in the place they call home.
What's one fun fact about you?
I love doing puzzles and organizing – what a rush!
Hobbies: Streaming new shows with my husband and elderly rat terrier named Jack, enjoying the outdoors (e.g., playing soccer, kayaking, etc.), and game nights with friends.
One word that describes you: Effervescent.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Cooper’s on 5th in Valley Junction.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Ted Lasso” on Apple TV.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Trying out new restaurants (and cocktails) or relaxing at our favorite spots, wandering Valley Junction or the East Village and, when it's warm, kayaking at Raccoon River and enjoying outdoor festivals like 80/35, the Des Moines Arts Festival and more!
Is there anything else people should know about you?
I feel very fortunate to have a multitude of invaluable mentors in my life. I'm constantly learning from them. Their influence has not only shaped me into the person I am, but any measure of impact my work has had is a direct reflection of their involvement and support. I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to do good work with good people.