United Way of Central Iowa is proud to announce that Grant Kvalheim, CEO and President of Athene USA, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Tocqueville Society Award.
This prestigious honor, one of the highest accolades given by United Way, is awarded to Tocqueville Society members who demonstrate exemplary leadership, sustained service, and a deep commitment to strengthening the central Iowa community.
Reflecting on the award, Kvalheim shared his gratitude: “I am deeply honored to receive the Tocqueville Society Award and to stand alongside so many incredible leaders who have made lasting, positive impact in our community. United Way of Central Iowa has always been a driving force for positive change, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its mission. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of my colleagues at Athene and the dedication of every individual who believes in building a stronger, more equitable central Iowa. I look forward to continuing this important work of fostering a thriving community together.”
Kvalheim received the award at the annual Tocqueville Society Celebration on October 2, sponsored by Holmes Murphy. The event, which also celebrated the 40th anniversary of United Way of Central Iowa’s Tocqueville Society, brought together over 400 members who collectively gave more than $7.3 million in 2023. These members, who each contribute $10,000 or more annually, are dedicated to advancing United Way’s mission of fostering a thriving community.
A member of the Tocqueville Society since 2014, Kvalheim has gone beyond financial contributions, actively engaging with United Way on various committees and serving on the Board of Directors from 2017 to 2023. His leadership was instrumental during the 2021 Campaign, where he spearheaded 25 CEO calls, secured vital support, and guided Athene to its most successful campaign to date.
“Central Iowa is fortunate to have a leader like Grant, whose unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership continue to inspire us all,” said Mary Sellers, President of United Way of Central Iowa. “His dedication to United Way is reflected not only in his generous support but also in his remarkable efforts to engage others and drive positive change. As a Tocqueville Society Award recipient, Grant illustrates the power of community collaboration that defines our organization. His achievements and steadfast advocacy have made a profound difference in our community, and we are incredibly grateful for his ongoing support and dedication.”
Kvalheim’s leadership at Athene has also been transformative. Since joining the company in 2011, he has led a campaign that has tripled in size, raising $2.46 million in 2023 alone—a 28.6% increase from the previous year. Under his leadership, Athene’s Tocqueville Society membership has grown from six members in 2015 to 53, contributing to a 378% increase in employee and individual giving. Athene has consistently ranked among the top three companies for participation and total giving to United Way of Central Iowa, earning the Spirit of Central Iowa Award six times in the last eight years and the Impact Maker Award in 2020. Athene employees have also dedicated over 6,000 volunteer hours to support United Way’s Five Elements of a Thriving Community.
“Grant is an incredible champion for our community,” said Maria Volante, United Way of Central Iowa Board Chair and past Tocqueville Society Award recipient. “The genuine passion Grant has for fostering a thriving community is evident through his unparalleled commitment and inspiring generosity. I am honored to be a part of recognizing his dedication, creativity, and unwavering support that continues to inspire us all. Please join me in congratulating Grant for all he’s helped make possible for central Iowa.”
Through his leadership, generosity, and dedication, Grant Kvalheim continues to make an extraordinary impact on central Iowa, embodying the spirit of the Tocqueville Society and the vision of a thriving community for ALL central Iowans.
