Episode
Breaking Barriers and Building Futures with Dr. Mary Chapman
- Podcast
- Legacy Leavers
- Published
- Sep 17, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 2739
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
In this final episode of Season 1, we're honored to welcome Dr. Mary Chapman — a pioneering educator, civic leader and tireless advocate for equity and opportunity in Greater Des Moines. As the first woman to serve as Executive Dean at Des Moines Area Community College's Urban Campus, Dr. Chapman broke barriers and set new standards for inclusive leadership. Her visionary work and passion for youth led to the creation of transformative programs like YouthBuild, Gateway to College and the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families, all aimed at empowering underrepresented youth and adults. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Chapman has been a steadfast community servant, contributing to organizations such as the NAACP Des Moines Branch, The Links, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Her dedication has been recognized with numerous honors, including inductions into both the Iowa African American Hall of Fame and the Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame. In alignment with our belief that we’re simply better together, Dr. Chapman's story exemplifies the profound impact that inclusive, collaborative leadership can have in making real community change. Links from the Episode NAACP Des Moines Branch Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families Des Moines Public Schools Des Moines Area Community College – Urban Campus Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families Des Moines Major Projects Task Force