Ames in Focus: From Lockers to Legislation with Susan Gwiasda

This episode of Ames in Focus takes a heartfelt journey through the history and significance of Ames City Hall, located at 515 Clark Avenue. Host Bill Gebhart is joined by two special guests: Susan Gwiasda, Communications and Outreach Manager for the City of Ames, and Alex Fejfar, Exhibits Manager at the Ames History Museum. Together, they reflect on the building’s transformation from Ames High School to City Hall, share personal connections to the space, and preview the upcoming 35th anniversary celebration. Highlights: Susan Gwiasda shares her background in communications and her unique connection to the City Hall building Alex Fejfar offers a historical deep dive—from the building’s 1937 origins to its adaptive reuse in 1988 Insight into preserved architectural features like vintage lockers and the repurposed school library Reflections on how history shapes civic identity and public service A preview of the anniversary celebration on Thursday, August 28, including cake, self-guided tours, and community engagement opportunities Help others discover the stories behind our city! Like, share, and subscribe wherever you listen—and if you’ve got a minute, leave us a review. Your support helps keep the conversation going and brings more Ames voices into focus.