Liz Cooney
Manager, performance and capability management, F&G
Age: 35
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I serve as president of the board of directors for the Des Moines Gay Men's Chorus.
I am a participant in the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, class of 2024.
I am a published author, and I co-wrote the book “Through the Lens of Whiteness: Challenging Racialized Imagery in Pop Culture.”
I serve as the vice president of communication and membership for the Pride Employee Resource Group at F&G.
What's your biggest passion, and why?
Committing to a deeper level of community engagement. As I've watched the political landscape shift in Iowa, there are several populations being pushed out, ignored or hurt. My dedication to the community involves a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
What are your goals in your role at work?
My goal is to take care of the people who take care of the business. We have new leaders who are eager to succeed. I aim to increase their skills and abilities by designing and delivering equitable professional development opportunities such as inclusive training, resources and peer-coaching networks.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
In my volunteer work with the Des Moines Gay Men's Chorus, both as board president and a singer, I hope to make the organization more sustainable for the future. Our growth brings new opportunities and challenges. I strive to lead our singers, staff and volunteers into an era of strong collaboration, community partnerships and financial security.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
Serving in the Peace Corps made me realize that community development starts locally. I didn't need to travel to the other side of the globe. It also made me aware of my race and privilege, influencing the direction of my life, where I am today and the work I do.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I envision a statewide initiative for LGBTQ+ youth music and art. I personally benefited from being involved and finding community in the arts. Imagine a place for youths to come together with hope for their own future, while simultaneously educating those who don't understand LGBTQ+ issues and perpetuate fear or violence.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Don't be afraid to ask questions to gain clarity or understanding. My approach to life is, to quote Ted Lasso, to be curious, not judgmental. This includes being open and aware of our own privileges and blindspots. We're all works-in-progress. Nobody has it all figured out. Be patient. Good things take time.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
Enact a basic income policy for Central Iowa. Around 36% of Iowa households are considered below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, meaning they are surviving but far from thriving. This income demographic is also disproportionate by race and ethnicity. Sixty-one percent of Black households, 53% of Native American households, 49% of households with two or more races and 46% of Hispanic households are below the threshold. We need laws and policy like tiered public assistance and a guaranteed living wage, requiring collaboration among state agencies, bipartisan leaders and corporate partners.
What's one fun fact about you?
I was on a Girl Scouts double Dutch team when I was a kid.
Hobbies: Writing, reading, music.
One word that describes you: Dynamic.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Centro.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “Star Trek.” Any and all series and movies. 🖖
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Spending time on the trails biking, walking my dog or running.