Myron Linn Named 2026 Leadership for Iowa Award Recipient

DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) and Leadership Iowa have named Myron Linn as the recipient of the 2026 Leadership for Iowa Award. Linn will accept the award on Wednesday, June 3 during ABI's Taking Care of Business Conference at the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center in Coralville.

The Leadership for Iowa Award is presented annually to a graduate of the Leadership Iowa program who demonstrates exceptional leadership, a commitment to serving Iowa, and a dedication to improving the quality of life for others.

A graduate of the 1988-89 Leadership Iowa class, Linn was selected for his decades of leadership in business, workforce development, public service, and community engagement across Iowa.

"Leadership Iowa is the state's premier issues-awareness program created to promote leadership and civic responsibility in our state. The program has graduated thousands of Iowans committed to moving the state forward," said Nicole Crain, ABI President. "Myron Linn exemplifies the mission and values of the program through his servant leadership, civic involvement, and lifelong dedication to improving opportunities for Iowans."

Throughout his distinguished career, Linn spent more than 25 years with Pella Corporation in leadership and government relations roles, helping shape workforce and public policy initiatives benefiting Iowa employers and workers. He later served as Deputy Director of Iowa Workforce Development, where he worked on workforce issues impacting communities statewide.

Linn dedicated nearly three decades of service to the U.S. Army, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Since 1995, he has served as Iowa State Director for the U.S. Selective Service System.

His extensive civic leadership includes serving as chair of ABI and the Iowa Taxpayers Association, serving on the Pella Community School Board, and volunteering with numerous community organizations.

In addition to his professional and civic accomplishments, Linn has officiated Iowa high school athletics for more than 40 years and NCAA football for 29 years. He was inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Officials Hall of Fame in 2019.

ABI's Taking Care of Business Conference is Iowa's premier business, leadership and policy event, bringing together business leaders from across the state for programming focused on leadership, workforce, policy, and Iowa's economic future. Conference registration remains open through May 29. Additional information is available here.

Recipients of the Leadership for Iowa Award must show a demonstrated commitment to serve Iowa, have held a leadership role volunteering for civic or professional organizations, have demonstrated the ability to lead on difficult or controversial subjects, and be involved in projects designed to enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Honorees also must have held a professional or volunteer leadership position that contributes to local or statewide leadership development.