Dan Culhane, CEcD, CCE, is the President & CEO of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance where he oversees a staff of 17 and leads our organization’s affiliate programs.
He is a 1993 Graduate of Iowa State University with a B.S. degree in Community & Regional Planning and a 1998 Graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute. He earned his CEcD (Certified Economic Developer) in 2000 and the Chamber industry’s highest designation, the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE), in 2011.
Dan has served on numerous boards and is a current member of the YSS Foundation board of directors. He has also served on the board of the United Way of Story County and chaired the 2017 campaign, which was the largest campaign in history, at the time. He co-chaired Reggie’s Sleep Out in Ames to promote the needs of homeless youth as well. He has served as chairman to several organizations over the years including the Iowa Chamber Alliance – a coalition of Iowa’s largest community’s Chambers of Commerce, the Professional Developers of Iowa, and the Mid America Economic Development Council – a multi-state peer group from Ohio to the Dakota’s. Dan was recognized with the Leadership for Iowa Award by the Iowa Association of Business & Industry in 2023 for his leadership in economic and community development across the state and was recently appointed to the Federal Reserve of Chicago Community and Economic Development Council.
A native of St. Charles, MN, Dan, and his wife Stacey live in Ames, Iowa and have two adult daughters, Katie and her husband Hugh that reside in Chicago, and Maggie, who lives in Des Moines.
Brenda Dryer is the Senior Vice President for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. In this role, she leads the organization’s business and community development team. Brenda is passionate about economic development having more than 28 years of experience in this field. Prior to coming to the Ames area, Brenda led the economic development efforts in Mitchell County, Iowa, Buchanan County, Iowa, and was the first director of the Iowa Great Lakes Corridor regional organization.
Brenda is one of the founders and now the Chairperson for the Mid-Iowa Planning Alliance, President for PEO Chapter AM Nevada, board member for the Nevada Foundation, board member for Main Street Nevada, and past president for The Arc of Story County and Cyclone SHRM. She has served in a board role for numerous housing development organizations across Iowa.
Brenda is a member of the Nevada Rotary Club and an active alumnae member of Zeta Tau Alpha. She has served in numerous leadership roles for the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League across Iowa. Her favorite pastimes include time with family at their Clear Lake, Iowa cabin and cheering on the Iowa State University Cyclones!
Brenda holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication and Adult Education from Iowa State University. She is a graduate of both Leadership Ames and Leadership Iowa. She is married to Scott, who is an Educational Consultant for ISU’s School of Education, they have three grown children: Michael (spouse Courtney), Katie, Matthew, and one grandson: Kaysen.
Amy Howard is Vice President of Finance and Administration and has been with the organization since 2005. She has held various roles throughout her tenure, with the longest in financial management. She earned her Institute of Management designation in 2014 and was honored to participate in the Leadership Iowa program, 2011-2012 class.
Amy attended Des Moines Area Community College and when finished, started a family. Amy lives in Jewell with her husband, Brian. Three of their four married adult children live in the Des Moines area with two of their three grandchildren and numerous “grand-dogs”. The other, lives in Atlanta, Georgia, and grandchild number three.
An Iowa native, Amy grew up in western Iowa and moved to central Iowa in 1990. Amy currently serves on the ACCESS board of directors. She also served on the Salvation Army Service Center board of directors for nearly 10 years.
Eric Smidt
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
Eric SmidtVice President, Marketing & Communications
Eric Smidt is the Vice President of Marketing & Communications, a role he has held since August 2022. He oversees the marketing and communications initiatives for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and affiliate organizations.
As a communications professional for over 17 years, Smidt has been able to take a creative approach to tell engaging stories through a variety of mediums. He has extensive experience managing several social media accounts, website maintenance, and hosting a video podcast. He has launched, written, and designed three separate award-winning, quarterly publications, including TRACTION from the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. He has five documentary film credits to date and leans heavily on his skills in video, photography, design, and writing in order to enhance the brand he is representing.
An Iowa native, Smidt received his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa and his Masters of Education degree from Iowa State University. He and his wife, Karen, and children live in Ames, Iowa.
Shannon Thiele is the Vice President of Affiliate Programming at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and has been with the organization since November 2022. Passionate about connecting local leaders, peers, and students with opportunities, she spearheads workforce solution programs and K-12 education initiatives. She also leads professional development programs designed to support and retain talent, including the Live Work Play in Ames brand, which focuses on attracting new talent to the Ames region. In addition, Shannon serves as the staff liaison for AREA YP and The Ames Foundation, both affiliate organizations of the Alliance.
Beyond her role at the Alliance, Shannon is active in the community as a member of the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Story County and serves on their Gala event committee. She advocates for young professionals statewide as the Chair of the YPIowa Board and is actively participating in Leadership Ames Class 38. Most recently, she was selected for the twelfth cohort of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Business Leads Fellowship program.
Originally from Marion, Iowa, Shannon has called Ames home since attending Iowa State University and officially made it her home after purchasing her first house with her husband, Justin, in June 2022.
Jan Williams is Vice President of Investor Relations for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. With over five years of business relations and development at the Ames Alliance, her goal is to identify prospective business and industry investors, as well as cultivate and retain over 750 members throughout our four county regions.
In addition, she oversees our Director of Events and facilitates the Leadership Ames program, which annually develops future leaders and cultivates relationships to promote community involvement and advancement.
Jan is an Iowa State University graduate, a Lifetime ISU Alumni Association Member, and has served on many boards that are community focused in nearly 30 years of living in Ames. Jan and her husband Scott have two grown children, enjoys cooking and baking, follows ISU sports, the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, and enjoys traveling.
Elizabeth Berg joined the Ames Regional Economic Alliance in May 2024 as the Economic Development Coordinator, where she supports key affiliate organizations, assists with workforce initiatives, and helps coordinate meaningful economic development events in our region. In this role, she enjoys connecting with community partners, supporting collaborative projects, and ensuring that local businesses and organizations have the tools they need to thrive.
Elizabeth graduated from South Dakota State University with degrees in Communication Studies and Leadership and Management of Nonprofit Organizations. She has a strong passion for community engagement and mission-driven work, which now channels into furthering the economic vitality of Central Iowa.
Originally from Nebraska, Elizabeth now lives in Ames with her husband, Isaac. You can often find her exploring local thrift shops, diving into a good book, or traveling to spend time with her nieces and nephews.
Sidney Hansen is a recent graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Studies. She has gained professional experience as a Marketing E-Commerce Intern at Kent Worldwide and as a Marketing Communications Intern with the Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP). During her time at Iowa State, Sidney was actively involved in several leadership roles, including serving with the Student Alumni Leadership Council (SALC) at the Alumni Center, the Sorority & Fraternity Engagement (SFE) office, and as a member of Delta Gamma sorority.
Originally from Ames, Iowa, Sidney enjoys staying connected to her community and alma mater. In her free time, she can often be found attending Iowa State basketball and football games, spending time with family and friends, or staying active through golf, pickleball, and other activities outdoors. She is excited for the journey ahead and looks forward to using her skills and experiences to serve her community in meaningful ways.
Sarah Hurley takes pride in serving as the Director of Events for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. Since joining the organization in 2019, Sarah has worn many hats, with “team member” being her favorite role to date. Coordinating events is a passion for Sarah, and her favorite event is likely whichever one is coming up next.
With over 10 years of event planning experience, Sarah has successfully coordinated events ranging from small gatherings to 20,000-person affairs, spanning from corporate meetings to concerts and sporting events. For an icebreaker with Sarah, ask her which 1970s-1980s rockstar she drove around for an afternoon with five minutes of notice. As you can imagine, Sarah has kept her car clean ever since.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Sarah volunteers her time with the Ericson Public Library Board of Trustees and the Collegiate Alumnae Advisory Board for the Iota Sigma Chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi.
An almost lifelong Iowan, Sarah holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Iowa State University in Event Management with minors in Hospitality Management and Advertising. When not working or volunteering, you can find Sarah planning her next adventure or enjoying quality time with friends and family.
Dylan Kline brings a passion for Iowa and the Ames region to his role as Director of Business Development at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. As a longtime resident of the state, he has extensive experience in the state’s economic landscape. His experience in the Leadership Ames program further ignited his interest in taking on a more active role in economic development in the region.
Prior to joining the Alliance, Dylan worked for nearly a decade as a project manager with a local custom home builder. His experience in the construction industry offers a unique perspective when approaching economic development in the region. Dylan is highly involved with the Ames Home Builders Association, serving as chair in 2024. He holds a business degree from the University of Northern Iowa.
Dylan’s strong connection to Iowa and his experience in business development make him a valuable asset to the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, where he works tirelessly to attract and retain businesses in the region. He and his wife and 2 children are residents of Ames.
Steven Lawrence has been with the Ames Regional Economic Alliance since the fall of 2021. He is responsible for developing and maintaining marketing plans, organizing weekly e-communications, website updates, and digital analytics across all social media platforms. Steven also leads the coordination of 1 Million Cups Ames.
Born and raised in Ames, Iowa, Steven strives to be involved in conversations, projects, and initiatives that positively impact our community. Steven is a graduate of Leadership Ames Class 36, an active member in AREA Young Professionals, and received the AREA YP “4 Under 40” award in 2023.
Beyond his role at the Alliance, Steven also serves as a board member for the Story County Community Foundation, is the current President of the Gilbert Tiger Gridiron Club, and volunteers as a commentator during Gilbert High School football games that are broadcast on YouTube during the fall.
Steven is a graduate of Wartburg College, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Sports Management with a minor in Leadership. He was a member of the Wartburg Knights baseball team throughout his four-year college career.
In his free time, you can most likely find Steven enjoying a day out on the golf course, spending time with friends and family, or cheering on his favorite teams – the Chiefs, Royals and Cyclones. Steven and his wife Alissa recently bought their first home in Ames and are excited for the arrival of their first child in September.
Ottie Maxey is currently the Director of Economic Development for Hamilton County and Webster City at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. His responsibilities include leading Hamilton County’s economic development organization, business retention and expansion, housing, industry recruitment, and community betterment.
Prior to joining the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Ottie served as Superintendent of Schools for the Ballard Community School District for eleven years. In that position, he led a successful bond referendum campaign, oversaw $25 million in capital improvements, achieved the highest bond rating in the history of the district, built cash reserves to all-time highs, and implemented continuous improvement and data systems resulting in notable improvements in student achievement. During this time, Ottie served on the United Way of Story County Board of Directors, the Huxley Development Corporation Board of Directors, and served as a statewide mentor for new and aspiring Superintendents.
A native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa he holds undergraduate degrees from Coe College and the University of Northern Iowa, and graduate degrees from Drake University and the University of Northern Iowa.
Katlyn Mock serves as the Client Services Coordinator at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, dedicated to serving the Ames region since October 2024. In her role, Katlyn serves as a vital resource for Alliance members and visitors, offering valuable guidance and support to the community. Katlyn also assists in supporting office staff, managing our meeting rooms, and administrative tasks for Huxley & Nevada.
Drawing upon her extensive background in hospitality, communications, and customer service, Katlyn has played a pivotal role in fostering and nurturing customer relations. She takes great pleasure in meeting new individuals and assisting them in reaching their goals.
Originating from Chicago, Illinois, Katlyn actively sought out a smaller, more close-knit community and found her small-town dream in Ames following her attendance at Iowa State University. Currently, Katlyn resides in Ames with her husband, Harrison, their daughter, Eloise, and their two Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Corki and Lexi.
Ronnie Olson is the Investor Relations Coordinator at the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and has been with the organization since May 2024.
In this position, Ronnie is instrumental in maintaining membership engagement and retention for over 700 members, while also assisting efforts to attract new members to the Alliance. Additionally, she oversees the ambassador program and collaborates closely with the Events Director to support various initiatives and events.
Born and raised near the Ames area, Ronnie attended Des Moines Area Community College and currently resides in Roland. Outside of work, she enjoys attending community events with friends and embracing new experiences. Ronnie is excited to continually serve her community with a fresh and innovative approach.
Greg Piklapp
Director, Economic Development & Public Policy
Greg PiklappDirector, Economic Development & Public Policy
Greg Piklapp serves as Executive Director of the Greene County Development Corporation within the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, where he also leads government affairs and public policy initiatives at the local, state, and federal levels across the region.
Greg has held various leadership roles and board positions both locally and statewide involving early childhood programing, housing, downtown revitalization, criminal justice, and more over his career. For twelve years he served as an elected city council member, serving on committees overseeing economic development, infrastructure, and employee policies where he played a key role in developing programs to increase housing, tourism, new local broadband services, community outreach for law enforcement, and building new community infrastructure utilizing federal transportation dollars.
Greg holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa, an Associate’s degree from Des Moines Area Community College, and is a 2021 graduate of the Iowa League of Cities Certified Elected Municipal Official (CEMO) program. A fourth generation Iowan, Greg with his wife Staci and children live in Boone, Iowa
Lojean Petersen
Manager, Ames Main Street Farmers' Market
Lojean PetersenManager, Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market
Lojean Petersen is the Manager of the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market, a position she has held since 2012. She has also served on the State Board of Directors for the Iowa Farmers’ Market Association as Secretary/Treasurer since 2017.
Lojean brings her experience of a former vendor when they lived on the farm in Northwest Iowa to the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market. Her passion for showcasing local farmers, entrepreneurs, artists, and musicians in the area is evident each weekend. She strives to make the Farmers’ Market a destination place for Ames and the surrounding communities.
As an Iowa native, she and her husband Jim live in Ames. They have two children, Sarah of Ames and Joshua who of Omaha.
Karen Smidt is the owner of KandE Productions, where she combines her passion for photography with a talent for creative storytelling. As a professional photographer, she has built a reputation for capturing authentic images that highlight the people and places that make a community unique. Her work spans portraits, events, and commercial photography that provides clients with visuals that help tell their story in a meaningful and memorable way.
In her role with the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Karen provides contracted marketing support with a focus on social media content for the Alliance, Downtown Ames and additional affiliate organizations. She also leads photography for Traction magazine, documenting the businesses, organizations, and individuals that define the Ames region. Through her creative eye and commitment to detail, Karen helps showcase the vitality of the community and supports the Alliance’s mission to strengthen connections and share the stories that make Ames thrive.
Harrison Swift serves as the Director of Economic Development for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance. In that role, he also serves as the Executive Director of the Boone County Economic Growth Corporation. Beginning his role in October 2025, Harrison focuses on advancing business retention and expansion, workforce development, and community growth for Boone County and the City of Boone.
A native Iowan who grew up on his family’s hog farm in rural Iowa, Harrison developed a lifelong commitment to supporting rural communities and expanding opportunities for their residents. He brings a diverse background in economic and community development: a United States Marine Corps Infantryman from 2010–2014, founder and director of the Northern Colorado Veterans Resource Center, Bipartisan Veterans Fellow for Senator Charles Grassley, and Program Manager for Home Base Iowa, where he led statewide veteran workforce initiatives and strengthened local partnerships.
Harrison holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Northern Colorado and an associate degree from Hawkeye Community College. He was named 2020 Community Leader of the Year at the Northern Colorado State of the Region Conference and is an active member of the Ankeny Rotary Club. He also previously served on the Local Government Business Action Committee for the Greeley Area Chamber of Commerce.
Outside of work, Harrison enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and attempting to rollerblade and skateboard with his son.
Travis Toliver
Vice President, Downtown Development
Travis ToliverVice President, Downtown Development
Travis Toliver is Vice President of Downtown Development for the Ames Regional Economic Alliance and Executive Director of Ames Main Street.
As the Executive Director of Ames Main Street, Toliver serves as the primary public relations person for Ames Main Street and oversees the daily operations and programming. He actively works with the Ames Main Street Board of Directors, the City of Ames, and private investors, to help enhance Downtown Ames. This includes property development, business recruitment, and long-range planning. This position also serves as the main point of contact for the Campustown program.
Prior to joining the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Toliver has spent the past 10 years in Waverly, IA serving as the Executive Director of the Waverly Chamber of Commerce Main Street Program. During his tenure, Toliver was instrumental in numerous successful initiatives and projects which have significantly contributed to the economic growth and vitality of Waverly. His leadership, vision, and tireless commitment have transformed the Chamber Main Street Program into a robust organization that will continue to benefit the community for years to come.
Travis proudly serves on the board of directors for the Main Street Iowa Advisory Council and Mid-America Chamber Executives. Travis is a past board member for the Iowa Association of Chambers of Commerce. During his two terms as chair, Travis led IACC through a management change, a rebranding/name change, and a revamp of its conferences and education programs.
Travis is a 2020 graduate of the Institute for Organizational Management (IOM), a four-year professional development program of the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation. In 2021, Travis was appointed by Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, to her Empower Rural Iowa initiative’s GROW taskforce, which focuses on addressing the recruitment and retention of emerging leaders in rural communities.
Mike Upah is the Director of Ames Seed Capital, an early-stage venture capital fund which makes equity investments in businesses growing in Central Iowa. In his role, he has responsibilities for evaluating investment opportunities, communicating with portfolio companies, and managing the operations of the Fund.
Mike has served on numerous boards of startup companies such as Harrisvaccines, FloMetrix, iSEEK Corporation, and Parametric Solutions, as well as serving as Director and Treasurer of the Huxley Development Corporation, a non-profit economic development organization. Mike also works concurrently as the CFO for iSEEK Corporation.
Prior to these positions, Mike directed business development operations for the Iowa State University Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship. In that role, he worked with dozens of startup technologies companies ranging from information technology to human drug development and provided guidance to companies in the areas of market assessment, intellectual property, technology licensing, business plan development, private equity fundraising, and business operations.
Mike is an Iowa native and alum of Iowa State University. He and his wife Kristi live in Huxley, Iowa.
