The ballroom buzzed with energy as more than 650 business professionals and community leaders gathered for the Business Record’s 2026 Book of Lists Unveiling event on January 8 in downtown Des Moines, Iowa.
Published annually in January, the Book of Lists is an essential resource guide for business professionals in central Iowa, featuring lists of businesses across more than 70 industries, a community calendar, market research, and additional resources.
The Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business has been the presenting sponsor for 10 years. The sponsorship helps the college increase its visibility in the Des Moines market and connect with alumni, business professionals, and key stakeholders. Raisbeck Endowed Dean Raj Agnihotri spoke about college achievements and priorities during a brief program.
This year’s event was held at a new location, the Hilton Des Moines Downtown.
Chris Conetzkey, president and group publisher at Business Publications Corporation, announced the top five most influential nonprofit organizations and business leaders, as voted on by Business Record readers. Food Bank of Iowa was voted Most Influential Nonprofit of the Year. For the eighth year in a row, Dan Houston (’84 marketing) was voted Most Influential Business Leader. The retired chairman, president, and CEO of Principal Financial Group, Houston has served on the Ivy College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council since 2004.
January 13, 2026
