The Business Record has named Roxanne Conlin the first Women of Influence Alum of the Year, a new annual award launched to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Women of Influence.

Conlin was honored in 2000, the first year of the awards. Business Publications Corp. Chair Connie Wimer launched the program to recognize women who were making a difference in the community but were seldom recognized. All those who’ve received the award in the past were invited to nominate fellow alumni who’ve continued making an impact since being honored by the Business Record.

Conlin has championed several civil rights causes in her law practice and has sued institutions for various forms of discrimination, particularly advocating for women. She’s won cases giving more rights to pregnant workers, survivors of rape and women who have been sexually harassed in the workplace.

At 80, she’s still practicing law full time.

Jann Freed, a leadership development consultant and 2024 Woman of Influence, nominated Conlin.

“Roxanne is still standing strong and marching forward,” Freed said. “She was in the first cohort and she is still a Woman of Influence. She is a giver in so many ways — a giver of her time, talents and energy. Roxanne is admirable, inspirational and a role model.”

A feature on Conlin will appear in the Oct. 25 Business Record and she will be in attendance at the Fearless Annual Celebration on Oct. 30.

Fearless Annual Celebration details:
Oct. 30 | 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. program and discussion; 12:30 – 1 p.m. lunch | Downtown Des Moines Marriott