Kate Stucky is the director of operations and finance for St. Edmond Catholic School and Holy Trinity Parish

She is the first recipient of the new award.

Astra Ferris, the chief executive officer of the Growth Alliance, said Stucky’s “role in helping launch the Little Gaels 3-year-old preschool program helped welcome children into the school community at an earlier age, giving parents a newfound peace of mind and setting up our young, potential future emerging leaders for success.”

Stucky was the office manager for the Growth Alliance from 2013 to 2021.

She has also served as Main Street Fort Dodge president and treasurer of Fort Dodge Young Professionals. She is also a member of the Fort Dodge Plan and Zoning Commission and the Iowa Judicial Nominating Commission.

“But above all these things, our Emerging Leader has shown that her true passion lies in her service to faith-based education and the Catholic community,” Ferris said.

She said Sucky has “championed several programs to further the parish’s goals.”