JAMES JORDAN SCHOLARS LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
The James Jordan Scholars Leadership Institute is a program designed by the West Des Moines Historical Society for metro area high school juniors. The Institute honors the life of James Jordan, a leader in business, agriculture, politics, insurance, transportation, and civil rights. Jordan's contributions in these areas laid the foundation for the vibrant economic, political, and social environment that exists today throughout Central Iowa.
What are the objectives of the James Jordan Scholars Leadership Institute?
Educate young Central Iowans about the significant history of the area and the leadership as exemplified by James Jordan, a founding father of Greater Des Moines.
Help potential young leaders in the area understand the important role of community service and the nature of leadership.
In a series of monthly on-site sessions, learn from and network with current community leaders in a civil rights and social justice, transportation, education, banking, insurance, government, agriculture, and major sectors of Iowa's economy today about the current challenges the metro area faces as well as the future.
Provide a series of experiences for a selected group of Iowa students that engages, motivates, and inspires them to become active participants in creating the future of an Iowa that is increasingly diverse, both racially and culturally.
PROGRAM DETAILS
(PLEASE READ CAREFULLY)
Students typically meet once a month on Wednesday from 4pm-6:00pm in various locations around the Metro Area from August to May.
Attendance is required for all sessions with a few exceptions.
Participation at sessions, service projects, and feedback is expected.
Students must have access in internet. Information, communication and forms will be through email.
Please submit an email you have access to during the summer.
Students will be required to organize their own transportation to and from sessions.
Students will be awarded a stipend to cover incidentals and costs of travel.
A light meal or snack will be provided at many sessions. The West Des Moines Historical Society is not responsible for any ingredient that may pose as an allergen or intolerance.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
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Students must be current sophomores who will be juniors in the 2026-2027 academic year and have taken or will take Advanced Placement U.S. History or American History.
Students should have an interest in local history and a desire to learn and enhance their leadership skills.
Appropriate dress is required at all sessions.
Students will be required to write an essay related to their views and concepts of leadership based on the program discussions and presentations.
Essay winners will be awarded. All essays/projects will be made available to the public and to the press and will be posted on the West Des Moines Historical Society website and social media.
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JAMES JORDAN SCHOLARS LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
STUDENT INFORMATION
(PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY)
Full Legal Name:
Preferred name:
Preferred Pronouns:
High School:
Date of Birth:
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Month
-
Day
Year
Date
Student Phone:/Cell
Format: (000) 000-0000.
ALL INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION and FORMS are by EMAIL. Must be able to check email year round and have internet access for participation.
Student Email:
example@example.com
Current address (include city, state, and ZIP code):
Street Address
Street Address Line 2
City
State / Province
Postal / Zip Code
Parent/Guardian Name(s):
Address(if different from above):
Parent/Guardian Phone(s):
Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Email Address(es):
example@example.com
TEACHER INFORMATION
History Teacher Name:
School Phone Number:
Format: (000) 000-0000.
School Email Address:
example@example.com
SIGNATURES
I authorize that the student listed above has been selected to be a James Jordan Scholar:
Signature:
I, the participant, authorize the verification of the information provided on this form. This allows me to participate in the James Jordan Scholars Leadership Institute and agree to the requirements and details.
Signature of Student:
Date:
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Month
-
Day
Year
Date
Signature of Parent/Guardian:
Date:
-
Month
-
Day
Year
Date
Please list any food allergies, intolerances or restrictions:
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