Gary Lawson, founder of the Connect Foundation and the Iowa African American Hall of Fame (IAAHF), along with his daughter, Celeste Lawson, president of the Connect Foundation, transferred custodianship of the IAAHF to the Des Moines Urban Experience. The Connect Foundation previously transferred total custody of IAAHF to officials at Iowa State University, with George Jackson selected as the primary official. After Jackson’s retirement, ISU officials decided to only retain responsibility for hosting an Iowa African American Hall of Fame website, which features photos and information about inductees. Gary and Celeste Lawson said they believe that the Des Moines Urban Experience is the best choice for operating the IAAHF due to its proven history of annually presenting the Iowa Juneteenth Observance and using the Iowa Urban Media to keep communities across Iowa informed, according to a news release. Initially, the IAAHF plans to induct up to six members per year, starting in February 2024.