YPC 2016 Civic and Culture Chair

Josh Strief

Young Professionals Connection (YPC) Board Position: Civic and Culture Chair

Hometown: Sac City, Iowa

Alma Mater: Drake University (B.A. ’10; J.D. ’14)

What do you do? Attorney at Elverson Vasey

Q&A

What’s a day in your job like? As an attorney, I provide representation to a wide variety of clients, ranging from individuals to companies of all types and sizes. On a typical day, you can find me fighting for my clients in the courtroom, drafting transactional documents, and counseling clients on how to best address their legal situation.

What are your passions outside of work? When you’re not at work, what will we find you doing? Outside of work, my passions involve supporting and promoting my alma mater, Drake University, and YPC. You can find me playing volleyball and golf during the summer, coaching and judging Mock Trial, volunteering for various community organizations, and taking advantage of all the great events Greater Des Moines (DSM) has to offer.

Where’s your favorite (something) in Des Moines? Favorite Pizza: A pepperoni and mushroom pizza for two at Noah’s Ark. It’s the best.

What role has mentorship played in your career? Mentorship has been crucial to my career. As a younger attorney, I’ve had the benefit of working with a fantastic group of attorneys at my firm, who I learn from on a daily basis. On the flipside, being able to assist younger individuals, whether it is high school mock trial students, undergraduates, or law students, pursue their passions and make connections to help them on the path to success is one of the most rewarding experiences.

What’s a piece of career advice that has served you well? One of my Dad’s favorite sayings: “If you’re going to do something, do it right.”

What projects have you been involved with in YPC? In 2015, I was appointed as the Civic Chair in the latter half of the year. I’ve attended a variety of YPC events and helped organize Civic events during my time as Civic Chair, including the NEXT: Your Vote event and several of the YPC Debate Watch Parties. I also played on a YPC Volleyball team during the summer of 2015.