Junior Achievement of the Heartland Receives Friend of Education Award in Dubuque

(Dubuque, IA) – Junior Achievement of the Heartland has been recognized with the Friend of Education Award by the Dubuque Education Association, honoring the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting students, educators, and schools throughout the Dubuque area.

The award recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to education and public schools across Iowa. Junior Achievement of the Heartland accepted the recognition during the Dubuque Education Association’s annual Educators Recognition Reception, an event celebrating those making a meaningful impact in students’ lives.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Friend of Education Award,” said Lysa Hegland, President & CEO of Junior Achievement of the Heartland. “This recognition reflects the strength of the partnerships we have with educators, volunteers, and community leaders who are committed to helping students build the knowledge and skills they need for future success.”

Junior Achievement of the Heartland provides hands-on learning experiences that prepare young people for what’s next; helping students build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to navigate their futures and achieve economic mobility. Through partnerships with schools, educators, and business volunteers, JA connects classroom learning to real-world experiences in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship, empowering students to see pathways to success and own their economic future.

The organization serves students throughout eastern Iowa and western Illinois, including schools across Dubuque and the surrounding communities.

Junior Achievement also recognized several individuals whose support helps make its mission possible, including JA volunteer Maddie Galle of UMB Bank, who attended the reception alongside JA North Region Board Chair Abby Colvin of John Deere Dubuque Works and members of the JA team.

Special recognition was also given to Haley Dohrmann, Education Manager for Dubuque and surrounding communities, for her work building strong relationships with educators, schools, and volunteers throughout the region.

“This award is a testament to what can happen when schools, volunteers, businesses, and community organizations come together with a shared commitment to students,” Hegland said. “We are grateful to the Dubuque Education Association for this recognition and proud to continue partnering with local educators to inspire the next generation.”