Lauren Kollauf

Executive director, Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand

Age: 32

Husband: Nick Kollauf 

Children: Heath (1)

Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40: 

  • I joined the Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand in the midst of transformational and impactful streetscape construction, prioritizing increased communication regarding the project and a campaign to support local businesses. 

  • I shepherded several public art projects to the district, including a staircase mural, the first of eight DART art shelters, the return of a public art projector and beautifying an alleyway.

  • I activated the Avenues with new events, most notably the creation of a now-annual holiday event: the Peppermint Trail. 

  • Currently, I volunteer my time as a Power Read mentor with Everybody Wins! Iowa, as the advisory team chairman for Delta Gamma at Drake University and with Des Moines Refugee Support.

What's your biggest passion, and why?

I am passionate about feeling connected to my community – and helping others feel the same. This is what initially drew me to journalism and then nonprofit work. I believe that we, as humans, are at our best when we feel connected to others, especially those right in our neighborhoods.

What are your goals in your role at work?

My ultimate goal is for the Avenues of Ingersoll & Grand to be regarded as more than just corridors – but as a destination. I aim to do this through additional placemaking and programming within the district, promoting our incredible local businesses and highlighting the benefits of our streetscape.

What are your goals in a role outside of work?

Outside of work, I most value my roles as mom, wife, sister, daughter and friend. Investing in these relationships through quality time is important to me.

Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.

When I was 18, I spent two weeks visiting a friend in Germany who was previously a foreign exchange student at my high school. That experience greatly expanded my worldview and inspired a love for travel and other cultures. It also led to me later studying abroad in Berlin.

What are your aspirations for the future?

If you would have asked me this question a decade ago, I would have never imagined the work I am doing now! I hope in another decade I'll be able to surprise myself again in some way. 

What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?

I have two. It's OK to admit what you don't know – demonstrate that you're willing to learn or ask for help. It's OK to change your mind – goals change, passions shift. Give yourself the grace and flexibility to try something else or chart a new course.

What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?

In 2021, I became friends with a refugee family from Afghanistan. Witnessing them navigate their new community and access basic resources like food and health care, I realized how extremely difficult it is for refugees and other vulnerable groups to succeed here. I am in awe of the progress they've made despite the challenges – but it shouldn't be that hard. Our leaders must make it easier for *everyone* in our community to thrive.

What's one fun fact about you?

I completed my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2017 and have taught 700-plus classes at Power Life since then.

Hobbies: Practice yoga, try new restaurants and explore the bike trails.

One word that describes you: Curious.

What is your favorite local restaurant? I know I am biased, but Ingersoll has the best restaurants in the city! For special occasions: Harbinger. For everyday eats: Lucky Lotus.

Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Top Chef” on Bravo.

What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?

The Downtown Farmers Market is a long-standing favorite in the summer and fall.