Community Foundation President Kristi Knous honored with Character Champion Award

Aug 7, 2026

The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University hosted the 2026 Iowa Character Awards on Friday, July 31, at Prairie Meadows Event Center. Twelve Iowa individuals and groups were recognized for demonstrating exceptional character, including president of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Kristi Knous. 

Kristi was honored with the Character Champion Award, recognizing her leadership, advocacy and longstanding commitment to strengthening our community. In recognizing Kristi, The Ray Center shared the following about her impact: 

Kristi is a respected community leader whose partnership and advocacy have helped advance The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center’s impact for more than two decades. Her initial engagement came as a Child Advocate and Child Life Specialist at Blank Children’s Hospital, where Kristi embraced CHARACTER COUNTS!® in her family-centered care and advocacy work. As president of the Community Foundation, she has championed character and civility initiatives, including incorporating The Ray Center into relevant training opportunities that elevate civility as an actionable priority for boards across the community. Kristi was also a leader in the Better Together community series on civility that led to the Show Some Respect Campaign. 
 
Kristi has a unique perspective on community issues and has looked to The Ray Center numerous times as a partner to help address challenges within the community. Her leadership, vision and commitment to building stronger communities make her a true Character Champion. 

Kristi celebrates her award with her family

The Ray Center annually recognizes Iowans who exemplify the Six Pillars of CHARACTER COUNTS!®: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship. Since 2005, more than 250 Iowa recipients have been recognized for exemplifying good character.