Junior Achievement of the Heartland President and CEO Dougal Nelson will retire from that role on Tuesday, Sept. 30.
The JA Board of Directors announced the pending retirement in a news release Tuesday, April 8.
“Dougal’s impact on both Junior Achievement of the Heartland and our broader community has been nothing short of transformative,” Brian Duffy, board chair of JA of the Heartland, said in the release. “His vision and perseverance will leave a lasting legacy for years to come.”
The board also said it has launched a national search for the next president and CEO to lead Junior Achievement of the Heartland and continue advancing its mission of inspiring and preparing young people for success in a global economy. Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to this email address: [email protected], with “JA of the Heartland” included in the subject line.
Mr. Nelson’s journey with Junior Achievement began in 2001 as a volunteer. His passion for the mission and unwavering commitment to youth education led to his appointment as president and CEO in 2018. Throughout his leadership, he has been a driving force for growth, innovation, and resilience — qualities that helped JA navigate unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, according to JA.
His legacy was further solidified in 2022 when he was honored with the prestigious Karl Flemke Pioneer Achievement Award by JA USA – an award reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment within the JA network.
“I would personally like to thank everyone in my JA family of friends and coworkers. It was your inspiration that guided me to success,” Mr. Nelson said in the release announcing his retirement.
Junior Achievement is dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for their future, and make smart academic and economic choices. JA programs are delivered by corporate and community volunteers, and provide relevant, hands-on experiences that give students from kindergarten through high school knowledge and skills in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.
Under his leadership, the organization not only weathered storms but emerged stronger. His focus on organizational culture, student impact, and strategic vision culminated in numerous milestones—most notably, the grand opening of the JA Inspiration Center in October 2024, according to local JA officials.
Locally, Junior Achievement of the Heartland serves 24 counties in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Visit heartland.ja.org for more information.
