Editorial: Honoring retiring Catch Des Moines CEO Greg Edwards
Those of you who frequently watch our editorials know from time to time we use this space to honor notable community leaders. Today, we’re honoring Greg Edwards. For the last quarter-century Greg has led Catch Des Moines – the region’s convention and tourism bureau. At the end of this month, he is retiring.
Under Greg’s leadership, convention and tourism activity in Des Moines exploded. During his 25 years we’ve watched as the city has attracted everything from large-scale conventions, sporting events and meetings to the more recent success in being a host site for the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Hotel rooms and restaurants are regularly filled. And new investments continue to be made.
Greg would be the first to tell you this is a byproduct of the regional collaboration of public-private partnerships making smart investments in building Des Moines into a desirable destination for visitors and new residents. And it is, and there are many to thank for where we are today.
But let’s not kid ourselves. Greg’s vision, and leadership is at the heart of our growth. He was the right leader at the right time. He saw the possible even when it seemed impossible. He was able to bring business and community leaders together, in a common cause. To grow our region and our city.
In part because of Greg Edwards, our downtown is vibrant, our city is alive and, as residents, we are blessed with a wealth of entertainment and cultural opportunities that are uncommon for a city of our size. And if you’re a visitor, you’re met with a modern, clean exciting destination with a growing list of must-see activities.
It’s now time for us to take the baton take from Greg and continue to move Des Moines forward. To my friend, Greg Edwards, a sincere “thank you." Godspeed in your retirement. We couldn’t be more grateful for your service.