Governor Sue, Welcomes you!


Ever wonder why you are an Optimist?  Do you ever wonder why you stay an Optimist?  These are the questions that have popped into my head the last few years.  I do wonder why I stay.  Is it for the glory?  Or is it for the friendships I have made being a member?  Is it because I like to do things or be in charge of thing (projects)?  Or is it because I have a soft spot in my heart for children in need.  I don’t really know why, but I know it is some of all of that.

It was a humbling experience for me as Club President.  I learned to listen better.  I learned not to be so quick with a comment or look.  I learned not to judge people.  I learned what it was like to see little kids needing so…so much that I know there was no way I could help them all.

Through Optimist International, I learned what it was like to belong to a wonderful organization that actually helps little kids all over the world in one way or another.  I knew I wanted to be a part of that!

So, that’s why I stay.  It’s why I want to see our district be healthy and vibrant, and I want to find that spark and ignite the passion in all of us to stay and do good things for the little kids.  I have faith in you!  I know you will find that spark in your club members; you will kindle it; and fan the flames.  Light the fire…lead them boldly and you will see the changes! 

I promise to give you the tools to help make you successful and who knows?  You might just light someone else’s fire!

Have a great year I will be seeing you and your club soon!

Governor Sue Wunsch


2024 -2025 Iowa District Optimist 1st Quarter Conference – October 18-19, 2024

Fairfield Inn & Suites
8661 Plum Dr, Urbandale, IA, 50322

(515) 278-2500

Reservations Deadline:   October 1st, 2024

Room Rate:  $99 + tax per night

Registration Cost: 

Early Bird (ends October 1st) – $37.50

Regular (after October 1st) – $50

Friday, October 18, 2024—Executive Committee (Casual Attire- any Optimist shirt)
Governor Assistant’s Dinner……Cozy Café (8385 Birchwood Ct, Johnston) ..……5:00 PM
Executive Business Session………..……………………………….…..…………………………….……7:00 PM


Saturday, October 19, 2024—District Board – (Business Attire- new polo &/or fleece)
NOTE: Past Governor Breakfast – 7:30-8:30 AM – Cozy Café (8385 Birchwood Ct, Johnston)
Registration……………………………………………………………….……………………………… 7:30-9:30 AM
Morning Social…….……………………………………………..…….………………………..….…. 8:00-9:00 AM
First Timer Orientation…….……………………………………………..…………….……….…. 8:30-9:00 AM
General Session……………….……………………..………………………………….………………………. 9:00 AM
Workshops – (1) Helping Others Get Ahead, (2) What Optimist Success Looks Like
Governor Assistant Meetings (West-> Zones 1,2,3 / Central->Zones 4,5,6 / East->Zones 7,8,9,10,13)
Lunch & 4th Qtr Awards………………………………..…………………………….…..…………….… 12:00 PM
Workshops – (3) The Mindful Optimist, (4) Kindling New Ideas: Why We Do the Things We Do
Closing Session

Hola! After the conference please join us at El Mariachi’s in Johnston for refreshments!
Come join the fun and fellowship. 5825 Merle Hay Road, Johnston (515-276-3887)

View the Full Agenda HERE

Registration form HERE – please complete and submit with payment before October 19th for EARLY BIRD prices!

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