Tuesday, May 26, 2026
Group photo with ALS group
The Kick Off for the Eastern Iowa Walk to Defeat ALS student group posing with Natalie Moningi, the Director of Events at the ALS Association

This semester, 10 Event Workshop teams worked hard to design and execute events around the community. Check out their events here!

One of the student workshop teams partnered with Certificate alumna Natalie Moningi, who now directs events for the ALS Association. A 5-person team led by Savanah Kermend  assisted Moningi in planning the first-ever Eastern Iowa Walk to Defeat ALS Kick‑Off. This event brou

ght together families, participants, and supporters to connect, celebrate top fundraisers, encourage fundraising, and highlight the impact the organization has on those affected by ALS. 

Team member Finley Duffey stood out for her personal connection to the cause, which shaped her experience throughout the project. 

 “Seeing how passionate the ALS community is makes the experience feel very personal and rewarding,” she said. ”I was so glad I could be a part of something bigger than myself.”

Moningi  described coming back to the Workshop class as a client instead of a student as “bitter sweet.” 

“It really felt like a full‑circle moment,” she said. “The students were wonderful and genuinely wanted to make a difference. It was inspiring to watch the students grow not only in their leadership and professional communication, but also in their connection to the families we serve.”

You can check out photos from all the Workshop events below!