Staff Spotlight: Emma Disterhoft

Author: Cathy Essick
Financial Literacy
Published: Saturday, 08 Mar 2025

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Image caption: Emma Disterhoft, Senior Special Events Manager

For more than six years, Emma Disterhoft has played a vital role at Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa (JAEI), shaping some of the organization’s most impactful events. As Senior Events Manager, she coordinates the intricate logistics of the Business Hall of Fame galas and the JA Stock Market Challenge^®, ensuring each event runs seamlessly and leaves a lasting impression.

Emma’s journey with JAEI began as she searched for her first job after college. Drawn to JA’s mission of financial literacy for students, she saw an opportunity to combine her passion for marketing and events with a cause that truly matters. Over the years, her role has evolved, but her excitement for creating meaningful experiences for students and supporters remains as strong as ever.

One of Emma’s favorite aspects of her work is getting to know the Business Hall of Fame honorees each year. Learning about their journeys and achievements is a constant source of inspiration. But it’s not just the honorees who make an impact—Emma has seen firsthand how JA programs transform students’ understanding of financial literacy. One particularly memorable moment came during a JA BizTown^®Mobile simulation when she recognized some of the fifth-grade students as those she had previously taught in JA Our City^® as 3rd graders. Seeing their continued excitement and engagement with JA reaffirmed the importance of early financial education.

For Emma, teaching kids the fundamentals of money management is essential. She firmly believes that having a strong foundation in financial literacy sets students up for lifelong success. That’s why she’s especially passionate about JA Our City^®, a third-grade program that introduces young learners to how a city’s economy functions. The enthusiasm students bring to the program makes it a joy to watch.

As JAEI continues to grow and evolve, Emma is excited about the new ways the organization is reaching students and enhancing financial education. The future is bright for students in Eastern Iowa, and she knows that none of it would be possible without a strong network of volunteers, donors, and community champions.

“We always need volunteers and donors, but having champions that share the work we’re doing—whether it’s through social media, word of mouth, or getting involved on our boards—makes everything we do more successful.” – Emma Disterhoft

A Well-Deserved Honor

Her hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed! In November 2024, the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation recognized Emma as a 2024 Spirit of Minnie Rubek honoree.

"Congratulations to 2024 Spirit of Minnie Rubek honoree Emma Disterhoft! Emma has served as Senior Events Manager at Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa for six years, helping to celebrate the organization’s mission with grace and enthusiasm. Emma has a way of making people feel valued and is always supporting the work of those around her. Thank you for your service to our community, Emma!" – Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

Learn more about Emma and the rest of the 2024 Spirit of Minnie Rubek honorees here: https://buff.ly/4hNfmEm

Emma’s dedication to Junior Achievement shines through in everything she does, and her passion for empowering students is truly making a difference.

"Emma is a great person to have on the JAEI team. Her organization, consistency and positive attitude are such a bright spot – she is always willing to lend a hand and support her team. We are lucky to have her!" - Erin Kurt, JAEI Executive Vice-president