Teva Dawnson | Senior Transportation Planner

After creating her own degree in Environmental Education from Drake University, Teva proceeded to create the first community garden program in Iowa. With over 15 years of professional leadership in the development of municipal-level sustainability, beautification and recreation policies and practices, Teva brings a new wealth of knowledge and experience to the team.

When not at work, Teva enjoys her little oasis in the city including gardening with native plants to attract insects and birds, edible landscaping to stock the kitchen, long walks, pilfering wild-spaces for free-style Ikebana flower displays, perfecting the fried egg, and has a secret love of banjos. Teva’s first attempt at playing a stringed instruments is the simpler banjo ukulele. In addition, She has a great sense of humor and jokes that if animal ecologists “tracked” her habitat range, it would be a small radius from her home.

Aaron Bartling | Associate Transportation Planner

Aaron recently joined the MPO staff following a successful internship at the MPO. He has quickly proven his abilities and has worked with his colleagues to develop new solutions.

Aaron enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, golfing, and taking his dog, Emma, on runs. He appreciates that downtown Des Moines is full of so many fun and exciting things year round. Aaron also continues to pursue his passion for photography, which has been blossoming over the past few years.