Alumni
For more than 55 years, the YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) has brought together emerging leaders from across the United States to engage in civic leadership, public policy, and community service. Our alumni network is a testament to the program’s enduring impact, connecting individuals who are committed to making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Alumni Impact:
CONA graduates have gone on to serve in government, nonprofit organizations, education, and civic initiatives. Many have become U.S. Senators, governors, nonprofit leaders, and influential advocates, reflecting the values of leadership, civic responsibility, and public service instilled at the conference.
Distinguished CONA Alumni
Since 1967, the YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) has inspired countless young leaders. Many alumni have gone on to make a mark in politics, arts, sports, academia, and music.
Politics & Public Service
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Jeanne Combs – Nebraska State Representative (2003–2007)
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Mary Ann Hanusa – Iowa State Representative (2011–2021)
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Alice Hausman – Minnesota House of Representatives (1989–present)
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Roby Smith – Iowa State Treasurer & former State Senator
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Annette Sweeney – Iowa State Senator (2018–present)
Arts & Media
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Gris Grimly (Steven Soenksen) – Illustrator & Author
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Reinhold Marxhausen – Artist & Former Art Dept. Chair, CUNE
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Andrea von Kampen – Folk Singer & Songwriter
Sports & Athletics
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Dan Cloeter – Chicago Marathon Winner & Pastor
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Toby Down – Professional Soccer Player
Academia & Leadership
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Bernard Bull – President, Concordia University Nebraska
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Robert Sylwester – Emeritus Professor of Education, University of Oregon
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Frederick C. Luebke – Historian
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David Morgan – Professor & Scholar
Music & Composition
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Amanda Husberg – Hymn Composer
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Paul Rosel – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Charles Krutz – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Dr. Edmund Martens – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Dr. Charles Ore – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Dr. David Held – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Peter Prochnow – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Dr. Kurt von Kampen – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
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Professor Robert Cody – Contributor, CUNE Music Programs
CONA continues to be a launchpad for future leaders, connecting alumni who shape public service, the arts, athletics, academia, and music.
Stay Connected:
The CONA alumni network provides opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and collaboration. Alumni remain engaged in shaping the next generation of leaders, continuing the legacy of informed and active citizenship fostered by the conference. Please register here and keep in touch.
We welcome your emails, ideas, questions, and requests.
Check back often for local CONA Reunions!