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
Renewable Energy: Local Solutions to a Global Challenge
September 23 at 11 a.m.
Jordan Oster of the Iowa Environmental Council will share insights into Iowa’s changing energy landscape, including increasing electricity demand, renewable energy opportunities, and ways households and organizations can reduce energy use while incorporating renewable energy into everyday life.
Challenger Learning Center
October 14 at 11 a.m.
Join us for a look at Hawkeye Community College’s developing Challenger Learning Center, an immersive STEM learning experience designed to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators. Designed primarily for students in grades 5–8, the center will use space-themed simulations and hands-on challenges to build skills, while creating opportunities for educators, families, businesses, and the broader community to engage with STEM.
Transforming the Historic Black’s Building
November 11 at 11 a.m.
Join us for a look at the renovation of Waterloo’s historic Black’s Building with David Deeds from JSA Development. The $57 million project will transform the historic building into a 130-room hotel, with new commercial and residential spaces. David will also share the broader vision for East Village and how this project connects with the growing investment, new businesses, housing, and community amenities taking shape throughout downtown Waterloo.
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Past Presentations
Biking and Driving: Designing Healthier Transportation
This presentation explores how transportation choices shape both our environment and our quality of life. Brenda Vavroch of INRCOG discusses trail connectivity and the growing role of e-bikes. Abbie Christophersen of the Mid-Iowa Planning Alliance shares about electric vehicle infrastructure in our region and practical considerations for those interested in adopting more sustainable transportation options.
Water Quality: Protecting Our Most Vital Resource
Audrey Tran Lam, Environmental Health Program Manager at UNI’s Center for Energy and Environmental Education, explores Iowa’s water quality, including local and statewide trends, the impacts of agricultural runoff, and what we know about nitrate contamination and its potential connection to rising cancer rates. She also discusses practical approaches to improving water quality and offers guidance on steps individuals can take, from water testing to filtration options.
What’s Next at Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
New Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center Executive Director Anne Lefter and Director of Development Bethany Brooks share what’s ahead for one of the Cedar Valley’s premier cultural destinations, including the Gallagher Bluedorn’s vision for the future and a preview of its exciting upcoming season lineup.
Understanding Our Local Election Process
Black Hawk County Auditor and Commissioner of Elections Karen Showalter shared insights into how elections are administered in Black Hawk County. As questions about election processes continue to be part of public conversation, this presentation explores voter registration, election security, ballot processing, and the systems in place to support accurate, secure, and transparent elections.
America 250 Field of Honor & WWII Heritage City
This presentation highlights 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 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.
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.
You can view even more Windows on Waterloo presentations online!
Upcoming Events
September
23
2026
Windows on Waterloo – Renewable Energy: Local Solutions to a Global Challenge
Wednesday, September 23 at 11 AM
Jordan Oster of the Iowa Environmental Council will share insights into Iowa’s changing energy landscape, including increasing electricity demand, renewable energy opportunities, and ways households and organizations can reduce energy use while incorporating renewable energy into everyday life.
(Online, Zoom)
