Grand View University Celebrates Four SEED Coalition Award Winners

April 24, 2026

Grand View University is celebrating a significant achievement in civic engagement and community partnership, as four members of its campus community were recognized with honors from the Seed Coalition.

The SEED Coalition Presidents’ Awards highlight outstanding contributions to civic and community engagement across member colleges and universities in the Midwest. These awards recognize the collaborative efforts of students, educators, and community partners who are working to strengthen communities through meaningful engagement and leadership.

This year, Grand View University was represented in all four award categories:

  • Student Civic Leadership Award: Maddie Cunningham
  • Civic Educator Award: Heather Brady
  • Community Partner Award: Des Moines Public Schools & Grand View Education Department
  • Community Collaboration Award: Kristin Larson

Each award reflects a different aspect of civic engagement. The Student Civic Leadership Award honors students who demonstrate initiative and leadership in building stronger communities. The Civic Educator Award recognizes faculty or staff who foster civic responsibility and student development. The Community Partner Award highlights organizations that create impactful partnerships with higher education institutions, while the Community Collaboration Award celebrates joint initiatives that benefit both students and the broader community.

The recognition of four award winners from Grand View underscores the university’s deep commitment to service, partnership, and community impact. Through initiatives like these, the institution continues to prepare students not only for professional success but also for active, engaged citizenship.

The SEED Coalition’s annual awards ceremony brings together campuses from across Iowa and Minnesota to celebrate shared efforts in civic engagement and to recognize that meaningful community work is built through collaboration.

For Grand View University, this year’s honors highlight the strength of its partnerships and the dedication of individuals who are making a difference both on campus and throughout the Des Moines community.

Pictured left to right: Dr. Heather Thomas (Professor of Liberal Arts), Dr. Diana O'Leary (Assistant Professor of Education), Maddie Cunningham (Grand View student) and Theron Hobbs (Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, DMPS).