Ari Lewerenz Named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (08/03/2026) (readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Ari Lewerenz of Clinton as a 2026 Iowa State Fair "Iowan of the Day" on Saturday, August 15.

Ari's passion for community has made a lasting impact across Clinton through her leadership, creativity, and dedication to service. She works to build partnerships among local organizations, businesses, and community members. She also generously volunteers her graphic design and marketing talents to help organizations tell their stories, expand their reach, and strengthen their impact.

Since becoming Board President of the Sawmill Museum in 2024, Ari has led one of the community's most ambitious initiatives by helping bring internationally renowned artist Thomas Dambo's troll sculptures to Clinton. What began as a vision for a single sculpture grew into three, with the project expected to attract between 60,000 and 100,000 visitors to the community each year. Throughout the effort, Ari coordinated hundreds of volunteers, bringing people together around a shared goal of showcasing Clinton as a destination.

Her commitment to community extends well beyond the museum. Ari serves as a board member for Paint it Back, represents Grow Clinton as a community ambassador, and works in marketing and social media at Citizens First Bank. Through her professional role, she has helped transform the bank into a strong community partner by promoting local events, supporting nonprofit organizations, and encouraging civic engagement.

Ari's leadership and dedication have earned recognition through the Women Lead Change series, highlighting her positive influence and commitment to making a difference. Those who know Ari describe her as hardworking, kind, optimistic, and deeply committed to serving others. Her efforts are never motivated by recognition, but by a genuine desire to see her hometown continue to grow and thrive.

Ari will be recognized for her Iowan of the Day Award on the Iowa State Fair's Anne and Bill Riley Stage at noon on August 15. Along with being recognized she will receive, four admission tickets, four grandstand concert tickets, a VIP parking pass, hotel accommodations with the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, $200 cash, a golf cart for the day, and an Iowa State Fair Swag Bag.

The Iowan of the Day program, presented by the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, recognizes outstanding Iowans who have made a positive difference in their communities through service, leadership, and dedication to others.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $220 million for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. For more information, please contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation at 515-262-3111 Ext. 371 or Info@BlueRibbonFoundation.org.