
Learning Opportunities
Windows on Waterloo
Windows on Waterloo is a monthly webinar series designed to bring the community together to learn about important issues affecting our city. It’s a place to spark conversations, share ideas, and explore solutions to create a brighter future for Waterloo. These presentations are free and open to the public.
Upcoming Presentations

America 250 Field of Honor & WWII Heritage City
June 10 at 11 a.m.
Join us for this presentation highlighting the Field of Honor Black Hawk County, returning July 3–5, 2026 in downtown Waterloo, where 1,776 flags will honor veterans, service members, first responders, and loved ones ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. We’ll also learn about Waterloo’s designation as an American World War II Heritage City, celebrating our city’s lasting contributions on the home front and in service to the nation.
Is there an organization or topic you are interested in learning more about?
Recommend a Windows on Waterloo speaker!
Past Presentations

Waterloo CourtWorks
Learn more about Waterloo CourtWorks, a new 100,000-square-foot hardwood court sports facility coming to downtown Waterloo and expected to open in 2027. This presentation provides an overview of the project, its role in supporting downtown redevelopment, and how capitalizing on sports tourism will help drive economic activity in our community.

Grout Museum District
Executive Director, Margaret Moye, shares about current Grout Museum District programming, future plans to Reimagine the Imag, and what’s ahead for summer activities. She also discusses the potential impact of levy changes and what it could mean for the future of the Grout.

Common Ground Series on Community
Leaders from Union Block – a partnership of the Black Hawk County Gaming Association, R.J. McElroy Trust, Otto Schoitz Foundation, and Waterloo Community Foundation – recapped key insights and takeaways from the Common Ground Series on Community. This three-part learning series invited participants to reflect on the story we tell about our community, what civic engagement requires, and how shared spaces can foster connection.

Grow Cedar Valley Population Study Insights
Katy Susong, CEO of Grow Cedar Valley, shared insights from the Count Me In population study. Based on months of data analysis and community conversations, this presentation explores where the Cedar Valley stands today, the challenges impacting population growth, and the “Big Bets” identified to move the region forward together.

Crossroads Mall Redevelopment
ATI Group, the developer behind the redevelopment of the Crossroads Mall, shared initial design concepts for transforming the site into a vibrant, modern destination featuring restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and community spaces. Learn how this mixed-use hub will revitalize a key area of Waterloo and draw visitors from across the Cedar Valley and beyond.

Reimagining Holiday Charity
This Windows on Waterloo webinar features Love INC’s Christmas Store. In partnership with area churches, this initiative goes beyond traditional charity to create a dignified shopping experience where families can purchase gifts for their children at deeply discounted prices. Learn how this collaborative model empowers families, fosters self-reliance, and spreads hope across our community this holiday season.

Waterloo Fiber
Join us as we spotlight Waterloo Fiber, the City’s community-owned, high-speed broadband utility. Learn why Waterloo Fiber was created, the progress and milestones achieved so far, and how this initiative is shaping the future of our community. This is a great opportunity to understand the lasting impact reliable, affordable internet access will have for Waterloo residents and businesses.

Unplugged: Cell Phones and Student Success
This month’s session focused on cell phones and their impact on student success. We began with an overview of The Anxious Generation, the book featured in our community book study earlier this year. Waterloo Schools shared early insights, challenges, and lessons learned from their new cell phone policy launched this year and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley discussed strategies they’ve put in place to help students balance technology use with focus, connection, and well-being.
You can view even more Windows on Waterloo presentations online!
Upcoming Events
June
10
2026
Windows on Waterloo – America 250 Field of Honor & WWII Heritage City
Wednesday, June 10, 11:00 a.m.
Join us for this presentation highlighting the Field of Honor Black Hawk County, returning July 3–5, 2026 in downtown Waterloo, where 1,776 flags will honor veterans, service members, first responders, and loved ones ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. We’ll also learn about Waterloo’s designation as an American World War II Heritage City, celebrating our city’s lasting contributions on the home front and in service to the nation.
(Online, Zoom)

