Background: I’ve served as the Development Director at The Englert Theatre for the last decade, helping to inspire and activate positive community growth through the arts. Since 2022, I’ve been the Development Director for the Iowa City Public Library Friends Foundation inspiring every member of our community to support the Library as a Library user, volunteer, or donor. I’m an Iowan who moved away and came back with my husband Joe Demarest, who is now the Director of Community and Civic Engagement at Coe College in Cedar Rapids. In addition to my leadership role, I’m a community volunteer and play in two bands: Awful Purdies and The Dandelion Stompers.
How you got to Iowa City: I originally came to Iowa City as a student, studying photography and literature at the University of Iowa.
Why you decided to participate in the Welcoming Banner project: I love Iowa City! I want people to feel welcome here, to consider making a home here, and to join in helping to make this a great place to live! I hope that every person who visits Iowa City, or lives here even for a semester, visits the Iowa City Public Library, goes to see a band at the Englert, a movie at FilmScene, a play at Riverside, or a reading at Prairie Lights. This is a special place for arts and culture. Take it in! Enjoy your time here!
A call to action: Visit the Iowa City Public Library—get your free library card today! Explore programs like language learning, community events, digital tools, and friendly help from staff. Whether you’re looking to practice English, find legal or tax prep materials, attend cultural gatherings, or just enjoy a quiet place to read or connect to Wi-Fi, the library is your welcoming community hub. Let ICPL help you settle in, feel connected, and thrive in Iowa City!