DES MOINES, Iowa – Cindy Elsbernd, the Founder and CEO of Iowa Kidstrong, Inc., has been awarded the 2025 Dave Mills Volunteer of the Year honor. Cindy's unparalleled commitment and visionary leadership have profoundly impacted the youth of central Iowa alongside the Drake Relays, making her an outstanding recipient for this prestigious recognition.
Cindy founded Iowa Kidstrong in 2005 with a mission to inspire and empower youth to lead healthier lives through physical activity and education, and a bold vision to create a community where every child has the opportunity and access to achieve their full potential. Elsbernd has been the steady hand and driving force behind Iowa Kidstrong's efforts to achieve this transformational vision for more than 20 years — tirelessly and selflessly working to provide a brighter, healthier future for our youth.
Iowa Kidstrong — via its cornerstone KidStriders program — has been integral to the annual Grand Blue Mile presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield since its first running in 2010. KidStriders encourages elementary and middle school students to engage in regular physical activity throughout the academic year, culminating in their participation in the Grand Blue Mile. With the support of Iowa Kidstrong under Cindy's supervision, Grand Blue Mile has grown to become the nation's second-largest mile run and a beloved staple of America's Athletic Classic. More importantly, however, Elsbernd has positively influenced countless young lives, motivating them to adopt healthy lifestyles, fostering a lifelong love for fitness.
In addition to her work with Iowa Kidstrong, Cindy served eight years (2011-2019) on the Des Moines Public Schools Board of Directors where she was a board officer for six of those eight years. Currently she's the Manager of Governance Services for the Council of Great City Schools where she works with the largest public school districts across the United States to improve student outcomes with particular focus on those students with the greatest need. In 2024, Cindy triumphed over breast cancer, crediting her recovery in large part to the healthy lifestyle principles championed by Iowa Kidstrong. Along with her husband Ryan, she's the proud mother of adult sons, Sam and Lars.
This award is named in memory of David Lee Mills, who passed away on June 11, 2024, at the age of 91. A beloved member of the Drake community, Mills dedicated more than 68 years to the Drake Relays, leaving an enduring legacy through his tireless volunteer efforts and leadership. In his working career, Mills was instrumental in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act as the former Executive Director of the National Rehabilitation Association. As a volunteer, his contributions extended beyond the Drake Relays, influencing various organizations, including AARP and Planned Parenthood. Mills' remarkable dedication to Drake University was evidenced by his long-standing service on the Drake Relays Committee, where he held the position of chairperson an unprecedented four times and was also inducted into the Drake Relays Officials Wall of Honor. In 2022, Mills was honored with the Drake Relays Paul Morrison Legacy Award, recognizing his outstanding and lasting contributions to the Drake Relays.
The Dave Mills Volunteer of the Year Award aims to honor extraordinary volunteers whose dedication and contributions elevate the legacy of excellence associated with the Drake Relays, the Drake Road Races, the Grand Blue Mile, and other Relays events.
