Distinctively Dubuque Off to a Successful Start in 2024
Greater Dubuque Development, in partnership with Northeast Iowa Community College, successfully concluded our first Distinctively Dubuque session of the year on February 28, 2024. The program, at full capacity with 30 participants, welcomed newcomers to the Greater Dubuque region, ranging from recent arrivals to those residing here for up to 3 years.
Participants engaged in a five-week program, with each Wednesday evening dedicated to exploring and connecting with the Greater Dubuque community. The first night, hosted at Greater Dubuque Development offices, featured welcomes from City of Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanagh and Rick Dickinson, President & CEO of Greater Dubuque Development Corporation. The evening included dinner at Brazen Restaurant, a historical overview by Chris Wand, and an interactive activity fostering connections among participants.
On the second night, attendees gathered at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium for dinner at the Harbor View Grill. Presentations by Dubuque County Conservation and the City of Dubuque, highlighted accessible recreation opportunities. The night concluded with exploration of the Museum's 'Rivers to the Sea' exhibit, showcasing 12 new aquariums and 100 species of marine life new to the museum.
The third evening, held at Stone Cliff Winery, delved into the City of Dubuque’s shared prosperity initiative and the region's economic landscape. Participants engaged in conversations and an interactive focus group session with staff from Greater Dubuque Development and the City of Dubuque, providing valuable insights.
Night four centered on arts, culture, and local traditions. Participants met at the Dubuque Museum of Art, where dinner and a museum tour were followed by a panel discussion on diverse arts and cultural activities accessible in the Greater Dubuque region. The evening concluded with a euchre lesson.
The final night offered a sunset view of Dubuque's downtown skyline at the Skyscape Conference Room in the Historic Millwork District. After dinner, a brief history of the district was shared by Mary Gronen of GRONEN, followed by a walking tour of the Caradco Building. Leadership from Dupaco Community Credit Union, the City of Dubuque, Greater Dubuque Development Corporation, Dubuque County, the DRA, and Northeast Iowa Community College participated in a panel discussion on the region's collaborative spirit and future opportunities. The lively conversation touched on how public/private partnerships in the Greater Dubuque region have successfully navigated challenges in the past and how they are continuing to ensure exciting developments for the future.
Distinctively Dubuque is designed for individuals that have relocated or returned to the area in the last five years. Thanks to our generous sponsors DRA, City of Dubuque and Dubuque County, Distinctively Dubuque is free of charge to all participants. Each session consists of five consecutive Wednesday evenings from 5:30-8:30 p.m, hosted by high-energy presenters with in-depth knowledge of the Greater Dubuque region. Each night, participants meet at different, unique venues and enjoy local cuisine. Registration is now open for 2024 sessions with our next class starting on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Register online or by contacting Mandi Dolson, Director of Workforce Recruitment & Retention at 563-557-9049 or mandid@greaterdubuque.org.
