Simpson College and the City of Indianola have announced the creation of the Indianola-Simpson Town and Gown Committee, led by co-chairs Simpson President Jay Byers and Indianola Mayor Stephanie Erickson. The committee includes local Simpson alumni, City of Indianola officials, Indianola Chamber of Commerce members, business owners, Indianola School District officials, and Warren County leaders.

The committee will work to capitalize on the shared momentum the City and College have established, including recent initiatives such as the Storm the Night Festival featuring a National Balloon Classic “Nite Glow” during Simpson Homecoming this fall. Community and College leaders are also planning to coordinate numerous George Washington Carver Day celebrations across Indianola in February.

Future endeavors will focus on generating opportunities for more shared programming
and participation in City, community and campus events, as well as creating heightened
engagement and cross promotion between Simpson and Indianola businesses and schools.
The Town and Gown Committee held its first meeting late last month and will gather on a regular basis to develop formal and informal shared initiatives for 2024 and beyond.