Tom Florian

Vice president of membership and strategic marketing, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce

Age: 33

Education: BSBA - marketing and finance - Drake University; MBA - marketing - Drake University

Wife: Sarah Florian

__________________________

Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.

In my first professional role, I was recognized by my peers as Leader of the Year two years in a row (2015 and 2016).

I served as chair of Drake University's Central Iowa Regional Alumni Board from 2020-2024, and now serve on the Drake University National Alumni Board.

From 2022-2024, I served on the Historic Valley Junction Foundation board of directors to support small businesses and preserve West Des Moines' historic downtown district.

I volunteered as a youth mentor for Dream Team Des Moines from 2018-2021.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

It feels cliche, but helping and serving others is my biggest passion. At least, this is the theme I draw as I reflect on my dedication to my profession, my personal life and my volunteer/community involvement. I also attribute this passion for helping others for my interest in serving as an adjunct professor at Drake University.

How do you define success, both personally and professionally?

Success is achieved when those you influence, mentor and/or lead find success themselves.

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

We as a society need to be mindful and supporting of those living each day with invisible chronic conditions and disabilities. Many of these individuals are making it look "easy," when in reality, their condition likely requires constant monitoring and treatment. One example is Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that affects roughly 2 million people in the United States. We must continue to support efforts to find cures for Type 1 diabetes and other chronic conditions.

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

As an incoming junior at Drake University, a mentor of mine inspired me to stay in Des Moines. He said, "Be a leader, not a number," which I took to heart. As I entered my senior year, I dedicated myself to sharing the story of Des Moines. In partnership with the Greater Des Moines Partnership and various community partners, we established a bus tour for first-year students to explore Des Moines and learn about all the amenities it offers. This program still exists at Drake today, albeit in a different format.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I'll never stop telling the story of (West) Des Moines, but one other specific aspiration is to officially transition some of my business ideas into reality: connecting student-athletes with local businesses utilizing NIL, starting a coffee shop/brewery by Drake called "The Brew Oval," and a variety of other concepts.

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

Ted Lasso says it best: "Be curious, not judgmental." Ask questions, don't make assumptions. Give people the benefit of the doubt and show genuine care for others. Showing generosity of time, talent and treasure will inevitably lead to success.

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

Asking for help when encountering a roadblock. Allowing others in oftentimes will lead to better brainstorming, enhanced ideas and improved solutions.

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

Access to affordable housing must remain at the top of the list. It is critical to a successful regional economy. Public transit is intertwined with affordable housing as both are major factors to supporting workforce attraction and retention, especially for the quality of life amenities that Central Iowa boasts.

What's one fun fact about you?

I've sung the national anthem at a variety of large events including the 2011 National Republican Primary Debate, Drake Relays and countless Drake basketball home games.

Hobbies:

Drake basketball season ticket holder; sing in choir; bike the trails in Central Iowa.

What is one word that best describes you?

Enthusiastic.

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

Home Sweet Cone's sugar cookie ice cream.

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

I was invited to emcee Ankeny Centennial's show choir competition.

What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?

Anything Drake University related, most notably the Drake Relays.