Melissa Strovers

Melissa Strovers is a respected leader in community development, known for her dedication to fostering positive change. In her role as the Director of Community Development in Grinnell College's Office of Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research, Strovers leads initiatives aimed at promoting social and economic progress, bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaboratively address complex challenges, build capacity, and secure resources from local, state, and federal sources to support community projects. Experienced in community engagement and social innovation, Strovers played a vital role in the revitalization of Poweshiek Iowa Development in spring 2024, utilizing her skills to make a meaningful impact. Her leadership extends to the nationally recognized Grinnell Education Partnership, where she has supported early literacy programs, family services, and community cohesion since 2015. Before joining Grinnell College, Strovers served as the Executive Director of Imagine Grinnell, a quality-of-life foundation. For her excellence in leadership and exhibiting innovation in maximizing resources in her local community, Strovers earned recognition in 2019 from the Governor’s office, as she received the National Service Manager Award. Strovers holds key positions within her community, serving as Board Secretary for Poweshiek Iowa Development, pas chair and board member of Grinnell United Way, and a member of the Poweshiek County Local Board of Health. She also contributes her expertise to the Build A Better Grinnell 2030 Visioning Project Steering Committee. Strovers' passion for community development and strategic planning is evident in her facilitation of Grinnell's community library, Drake Community Library's 5-Year Strategic Planning Process in 2023. She holds a B.A. in communications from Oklahoma Christian University and an M.P.A. from Drake University, reflecting her commitment to advancing her field. Beyond her professional pursuits, Strovers enjoys spending time with her family—husband Lance, children Wolfgang, Maddy, and Bailey—and their two beloved dogs, Louie, and King.