AGP Executive Report
Last update: 10 hours agoEconomy Watch: Iowa’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.2% in June as employers added 600 jobs, with retail and finance/insurance posting gains while manufacturing shed jobs. Education & Community: Essex Community Schools in southwest Iowa is exploring a four-day school week, citing staffing shortages and surveying families about logistics and student impact. Public Health & Care: More Iowans are turning to ketamine therapy when other depression treatments fail, as clinics expand options for mental health support. Higher Ed Funding: Iowa universities reported a drop in federal research funding in fiscal year 2026, with Iowa State seeing a sharp decline in research dollars. Local Leadership: Tara K. Connolly was named the first woman president of the Iowa College Foundation, aiming to expand statewide access and partnerships. Business & Jobs: Holmes Murphy named Jay Reavis president, expanding his leadership across the enterprise. Culture & Lifestyle: A new exhibit and local events calendar highlight summer arts and community happenings across Iowa.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.