Trent A. Murphy

Trent A. Murphy is a business owner, community leader, educator, and philanthropist with decades of experience in business, education, and community service. He is the Owner and CEO of Murphy Enterprises and previously served as Interim CEO of the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce. Earlier in his career, Trent worked in education, including positions with West Des Moines Community Schools, Valley High School, and Gilbert High School in Arizona.

Trent has remained deeply involved in the Ankeny and Greater Des Moines communities. His leadership and service have included involvement with the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, Ankeny Economic Development Corporation, Ankeny Community Schools, Simpson College Board of Trustees, Ankeny Youth Sports Alliance, Ankeny Community Champions, Ankeny Angels Investor, Ankeny Rotary, and numerous other community organizations.

His community and professional leadership has been recognized through several honors, including Ankeny Business & Industry Collaborative CEO of the Year in 2024, Simpson College Alumni of the Year in 2021, the Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics in 2019, and Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Person of the Year in 2019.

Trent earned his bachelor’s degree from Simpson College in Environmental Science and Biology and his Master of Science in Education from Drake University.

Throughout his career, Trent has focused on helping people and organizations grow, overcome challenges, and find a clear path forward. He brings that same commitment to his service on the Starts Right Here Board of Directors, supporting the organization’s mission and the young people and families it serves.