From his first day at the Amana Society which as fate would have it, was August 1, 2018, the very same day the ground-breaking ceremony was held to begin the restoration of the Amana Woolen Mill site for Hotel Millwright, Greg Luerkens’ time in the Amanas has been busy, challenging and yes, inspiring.
Officially his last day will be January 23, 2026. A retirement celebration honoring Greg will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Carding Studio at Hotel Millwright in Amana. Everyone is invited, Stuart Geiger, ASI board chair told us.
As Greg told us, “The seven-plus years have gone extremely fast because with as many businesses under the Amana Society, Inc. umbrella there’s never a lack of things to do and the Amana Society has allowed me to use all the skills I’ve learned throughout my career.”
When asked what challenges he has been most proud of tackling, he told us, “I feel strongly that we’re a stronger overall company than we were in 2018. There are several things I’m proud of. We’ve worked hard on improving company culture, and we’ve done a lot for employees through developing focus on ‘one Amana Society’ versus individual businesses.” One part of this is the institution of an ASI leadership development program for front line managers.
Greg is very proud of having worked alongside the dedicated, hardworking team at ASI.
“Without a doubt, I’ll miss the people. Many companies say their people are their greatest asset. At Amana Society, Inc. it’s evident not only in people’s commitment to their job and the company, but in the volunteerism of Amana Society employees who support the community and the festivals. . . The best part of our organization is the people, and I’ve been very blessed to work with a great team.
“I have all the confidence in the world that my departure won’t have an impact on the successes of any ASI entity as each has a great leader/ general manager in place,” he said.
A highly notable challenge and success: “We’ve remained profitable, while hitting record levels.”
Adding, “We’ve reduced long term debt by 22 percent from its peak in 2020 (after the Hotel Millwright construction),” Greg told us.
“We’ve implemented several sustainable farming practices including cover crops and strip till planting.”
“We’ve made dramatic improvements to many of our properties and buildings addressing deferred maintenance that’s been put off for years. We’ve recently added an employee to focus on historic barn renovation.”
Greg said, “We’ve made significant improvements at the Amana Colonies Golf Club that will keep it as one of the best facilities in Iowa for years to come. We built a maintenance shed, replaced the outdated irrigation system, built the new clubhouse and renovated the bunkers.”
“We’ve brought in the right management company to get the Hotel Millwright on target. It remains a challenge, but Leisure Hotels and Resorts have a plan and proposal in front of the ASI Board.”
His thoughts come back to the people of Amana. “I told the employees, and I’ll tell shareholders, that it’s been an honor to serve as CEO over the past 7- plus years and I look forward to the remaining weeks working with you.”
Stuart Geiger, ASI Board of Directors chair, wrote, “From day one, what I noticed about Greg was that he always looked for the best in others. To that end, he strongly supported opportunities for ASI employees to grow professionally. When the pandemic hit, he deftly guided the company through uncharted territory. And in the last several years, I and the board have appreciated Greg’s tenacity in continually pushing the hotel’s management company to deliver better operating results. My prayer for Greg as he retires as our CEO is that he be blessed with many years of great health to pursue his many personal passions.”
Yes, Greg is looking ahead to his personal goals and having more energy for his highest priorities – faith and family. Yes, he will continue to “hit the gym” each morning though now he won’t get up at 3:15 a.m. to make sure he’s got his work out in before coming to the office. He admits he might sleep in till 5 or even 6 a.m. And yes, he might consider heading south to warmer climes a few weeks each winter, though he would never leave Iowa for long. He’s an Iowan through and through, and an Amana community member.
“I’ll always value the time spent at Amana Society, Inc. Amana is the kind of place that once you’re a part of it, it’s always a part of you.”
Written by Emilie Hoppe