Congrats, Spring Grads!
Author: Katrina Kindred Smith, Leadership Studies Admin Assistant.
Congratulations to our Spring 2026 graduates! Recently, we had twenty-six students graduate with either a minor or a certificate in Leadership Studies. We are so proud of all the work they’ve done to achieve this great accomplishment! Read about the plans of three of our grads below.
Leadership Studies Graduates
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Victoria Lenius
What’s next?:
I will be working at Strand Associates in Ames as an Environmental Engineer. I will also be attending Colorado State University online for my Masters of Engineering in Environmental Engineering!What from LDST will you carry into the future?:
I learned how important leadership skills are in every area, rather than just in a formal leadership position. This understanding has helped me frequently practice leadership and apply that learning to my more formal roles.We are proud of you, Victoria! ??
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Samantha Brendon
What’s next?:
I’m working for Cottingham & Butler in Dubuque Iowa as an Associate Market Consultant!What from LDST will you carry into the future?:
During my time at Iowa State and through the leadership positions I’ve held, I’ve learned that small things, like how you communicate or include others, can really impact whether people feel confident and engaged.We are lucky to have you, Samantha! ?
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Kaylee Johnson
What’s next?:
I plan to move to Kansas City, MO to help start a church that Salt Company is planting. I am currently searching for a job that is related to Human Resources work and/or Employee engagement!What from LDST will you carry into the future?:
I believe that the biggest concept that I will take away from my time learning about leadership is just much of a puzzle it is. A leader needs to be flexible, willing to adapt, and have an open mindset in order to best help their employees or team; sometimes things don’t work together well right away. It is just a matter of having strong communication and awareness that can help put the right pieces together in order for a team to thrive.A huge congrats, Kaylee! ??