2024 Philanthropy Day Award Winners
Please help The Story County Alliance for Philanthropy and the citizens of Story County recognize the following people and groups and their philanthropic contributions.
Frankee Oleson Given Posthumously
Spirit of Philanthropy
Nominated by: Story County Alliance for Philanthropy
The recipient of this award is an individual that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to philanthropy throughout their lifetime with both financial support and through encouragement and motivation of others and has made a lasting impact on their community.
The spirit of giving knows no boundaries, it can bridge the gaps of despair and inspire others to follow in the footsteps of a true philanthropist. In honoring this remarkable individual, we honor the very essence of humanity's potential for goodness and generosity.
The Spirit of philanthropy Award, an accolade that signifies not just a person’s actions but the emotions they have stirred in us all—hope, love, and the unshakeable belief in the power of one person to make a profound difference in the lives of many.
Nominated by: Story County Alliance for Philanthropy
The recipient of this award is an individual that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to philanthropy throughout their lifetime with both financial support and through encouragement and motivation of others and has made a lasting impact on their community.
The spirit of giving knows no boundaries, it can bridge the gaps of despair and inspire others to follow in the footsteps of a true philanthropist. In honoring this remarkable individual, we honor the very essence of humanity's potential for goodness and generosity.
The Spirit of philanthropy Award, an accolade that signifies not just a person’s actions but the emotions they have stirred in us all—hope, love, and the unshakeable belief in the power of one person to make a profound difference in the lives of many.
Frankee Oleson called Ames home for nearly 50 years, always dedicated to serving Story County with unwavering passion and commitment. Her efforts have left an indelible mark on our community, making it a better place for all of us.
Frankee’s journey began with a degree in music from the University of Northern Iowa, followed by graduate studies at Iowa State University. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Sigma Alpha Iota professional women’s music fraternity, and P.E.O. Chapter KC in Ames.
Her professional career started in teaching and culminated in her role as President and CEO of the United Way of Story County from 2000 to 2010. During her tenure, she initiated the United Way endowment, creating a lasting legacy to support vital programs and services in Story County. Thanks to her vision, the endowment has surpassed $1 million, funding initiatives in health, education, and financial stability each year. Frankee also launched the Women United effort, which continues to have a profound impact on local women and families.
Frankee was a founding member of the Story County Alliance for Philanthropy, an organization that celebrates and promotes philanthropy annually.
Even after retiring in 2010, Frankee continued to contribute to community improvement through her volunteer work with various organizations. She served on the Mary Greeley Medical Center Foundation Board, holding roles such as Board Chair and Executive Committee member. Her leadership earned her the Mary Greeley Volunteer of the Year Award in 2019, recognizing her leadership, insight and advocacy. In addition, Frankee
served on the Rotary Club of Ames Music Committee for many years and was an Iowa State University Foundation Governor and volunteer.
Frankee and her husband, Jim, have also been very generous donors to many organizations over the years such as United Way of Story County, Iowa State University, Ames Animal Shelter and Mary Greeley Medical Center.
Brian Dieter, President & CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center, beautifully summed up Frankee’s impact: “Frankee believed in the potential of our community to provide opportunities for all. She certainly did her part, and we would all do well to foster this spirit in our hearts and support it in others.”
Frankee’s legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire us all.
Frankee’s journey began with a degree in music from the University of Northern Iowa, followed by graduate studies at Iowa State University. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Sigma Alpha Iota professional women’s music fraternity, and P.E.O. Chapter KC in Ames.
Her professional career started in teaching and culminated in her role as President and CEO of the United Way of Story County from 2000 to 2010. During her tenure, she initiated the United Way endowment, creating a lasting legacy to support vital programs and services in Story County. Thanks to her vision, the endowment has surpassed $1 million, funding initiatives in health, education, and financial stability each year. Frankee also launched the Women United effort, which continues to have a profound impact on local women and families.
Frankee was a founding member of the Story County Alliance for Philanthropy, an organization that celebrates and promotes philanthropy annually.
Even after retiring in 2010, Frankee continued to contribute to community improvement through her volunteer work with various organizations. She served on the Mary Greeley Medical Center Foundation Board, holding roles such as Board Chair and Executive Committee member. Her leadership earned her the Mary Greeley Volunteer of the Year Award in 2019, recognizing her leadership, insight and advocacy. In addition, Frankee
served on the Rotary Club of Ames Music Committee for many years and was an Iowa State University Foundation Governor and volunteer.
Frankee and her husband, Jim, have also been very generous donors to many organizations over the years such as United Way of Story County, Iowa State University, Ames Animal Shelter and Mary Greeley Medical Center.
Brian Dieter, President & CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center, beautifully summed up Frankee’s impact: “Frankee believed in the potential of our community to provide opportunities for all. She certainly did her part, and we would all do well to foster this spirit in our hearts and support it in others.”
Frankee’s legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire us all.
State Bank & Trust
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Outstanding Business Philanthropist
Nominated by: Main Street Nevada The recipient of this award is a business that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial support and through encouragement and motivation of others to take leadership roles in philanthropy and community involvement in Story County. |
State Bank & Trust Co. (SBT) is deeply committed to philanthropy in the Nevada community, contributing both financially and through the time and talents of its team. SBT’s financial support reaches numerous community projects, such as Main Street Nevada initiatives, school projects, festivals, historical fundraisers, economic development efforts, and sports projects. Among their recent notable contributions are $50,000 to the Nevada Fieldhouse, $25,000 to the Nevada Fire Department for a new fire truck, and $25,000 to The Camelot Theater Foundation for renovations. SBT also plays a vital role in the United Way of Story County's annual pledge drive, with every employee participating and the SBT Board matching their contributions, totaling $15,924 last year. These generous donations reflect SBT's heartfelt commitment to investing in the community and making Nevada a vibrant place to live, work, and play.
Beyond financial contributions, SBT’s leadership team and employees are passionately involved in community organizations, setting a shining example of volunteerism and civic engagement. Employees are encouraged to volunteer during work hours, participate in community meetings and events, and take on leadership roles in various civic organizations like Rotary, Main Street Nevada, and the Story Medical Foundation Board. In 2023 alone, SBT employees dedicated over 1,000 volunteer hours to more than 40 civic organizations. More than half of SBT's staff have participated in Leadership Nevada, a program that inspires new community projects and instills a passion for service. SBT’s visible presence and active involvement challenge other local businesses to follow suit, establishing it as a model employer for volunteerism and unwavering community commitment.
Grace McCunn
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Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
Nominated by: Story County Community Foundation The recipient of this award is an individual under age 25 or a group with members age 25 or younger that demonstrates outstanding commitment of time, talent and resources to raise financial support for a non-profit organization, cause or project and show evidence of leadership and/or mentoring of other youth in Story County. |
Grace McCunn’s relationship with Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines began when she was 10 years old, where she was treated for severe migraines. During her stay at Blank, Grace saw other children who were receiving more urgent care and wanted to give back, saying “It was hard to see other patients still in the hospital when you’re able to leave.”
Grace returned to Ames and began a corner lemonade stand to benefit Blank Children’s Hospital, which is the only dedicated children’s hospital in central Iowa and has served nearly 4000 Story County children in the past 10 years. Eight years ago, Grace started the Amazing Grace Lemonade Race, a 5k run/walk fundraiser at Ada Hayden Park, and has since raised over $200,000 for Blank Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House. Her inspiration, and coordination with volunteers and sponsors, has made a significant impact in the lives of many in Story County.
Grace returned to Ames and began a corner lemonade stand to benefit Blank Children’s Hospital, which is the only dedicated children’s hospital in central Iowa and has served nearly 4000 Story County children in the past 10 years. Eight years ago, Grace started the Amazing Grace Lemonade Race, a 5k run/walk fundraiser at Ada Hayden Park, and has since raised over $200,000 for Blank Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House. Her inspiration, and coordination with volunteers and sponsors, has made a significant impact in the lives of many in Story County.
Lynn White
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Outstanding Philanthropists
Nominated by: The Arc of Story County The recipient of this award is an individual, couple or family that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial support and through encouragement and motivation of others to take leadership roles in philanthropy and community affairs in Story County. |
Lynn White’s lifelong giving to non-profits in Story County is significant and the lives she has impacted immeasurable. Lynn gives to a variety of non-profit organizations including Mainstream Living, The Arc of Story County, The Inclusive Playground and Miracle Filed, Ames Community School District, St. Cecilia’s School & Parish, and the The Boys and Girl’s Club just to name a few.
Lynn is described as “having the heart of an angel with her positive energy and a smile that she carries each day”. Lynn’s commitment to Story County and the organizations she supports has made a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. While she often prefers to be the Silent Partner, Lynn encourages so many others such as her children and grandchildren to give of their time talents and resources and is an example for us all to follow.
Lynn is described as “having the heart of an angel with her positive energy and a smile that she carries each day”. Lynn’s commitment to Story County and the organizations she supports has made a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. While she often prefers to be the Silent Partner, Lynn encourages so many others such as her children and grandchildren to give of their time talents and resources and is an example for us all to follow.
Christa Skaggs
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
Nominated by: Main Street Nevada
The recipient of this award is an individual, couple or family that demonstrates leadership and organizational ability and success in recruiting and motivating others to give philanthropically in Story County.
Nominated by: Main Street Nevada
The recipient of this award is an individual, couple or family that demonstrates leadership and organizational ability and success in recruiting and motivating others to give philanthropically in Story County.
Christa Skaggs is a dedicated and passionate volunteer Board Member for Main Street Nevada, The Camelot Theater Foundation, and The Nevada Foundation. Her recent year as President of the Rotary Club of Nevada was marked by her tireless efforts in leading significant fundraising initiatives. Christa's pivotal role in helping Main Street Nevada become a designated Main Street community demonstrated her commitment to revitalizing the downtown district. Through her efforts, she secured pledges from local businesses, leading to over $600,000 in grants that have fueled economic growth and renewal. At The Camelot Theater Foundation, Christa's dedication is evident in the countless hours she has spent writing grants, attending meetings, and organizing fundraising events to support the theater's renovation. She has also taken on the role of marketing and promoting the theater, ensuring that the community is engaged and excited about its future.
As President of the Rotary Club of Nevada, Christa's creativity and enthusiasm shone through in events like the Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser, which raised over $14,000 for The Camelot Theater. Her initiative "Denny's Dock," a heartfelt project to honor a fellow Rotarian, further showcased her ability to rally the community for meaningful causes. In her role as Chairperson for the Leadership Nevada program, Christa inspires others to take charge and volunteer, providing them with the tools and connections needed to bring their ideas to life. Known affectionately as the "community connector," Christa's knack for motivating and mobilizing others has resulted in successful projects like the "Flags Over Main Street" program, enhancing the Main Street district. Balancing her numerous commitments, including a full-time job and raising three children, Christa's unwavering passion for community service and her ability to inspire others have made her an irreplaceable asset to Nevada and the organizations she serves.
As President of the Rotary Club of Nevada, Christa's creativity and enthusiasm shone through in events like the Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser, which raised over $14,000 for The Camelot Theater. Her initiative "Denny's Dock," a heartfelt project to honor a fellow Rotarian, further showcased her ability to rally the community for meaningful causes. In her role as Chairperson for the Leadership Nevada program, Christa inspires others to take charge and volunteer, providing them with the tools and connections needed to bring their ideas to life. Known affectionately as the "community connector," Christa's knack for motivating and mobilizing others has resulted in successful projects like the "Flags Over Main Street" program, enhancing the Main Street district. Balancing her numerous commitments, including a full-time job and raising three children, Christa's unwavering passion for community service and her ability to inspire others have made her an irreplaceable asset to Nevada and the organizations she serves.
