Wendy was an attorney with Whitfield and Eddy law firm. In 1999, she joined American Equity Investment Life Holding Company as its Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel. In 2009 she became the Chief Executive Officer and President of the company. Wendy started golfing many years ago and became one of the first solo female golf members of Des Moines Golf and Country Club. She thoroughly enjoyed the game and recognized the benefits of the sport, both personally and professionally. She conducted business on various golf courses around the world, but also enjoyed how golf deepens and enriches friendships. Wendy inspired many girls and women to engage in the sport of golf; seeing it as an effective compliment to success in business and in life. Wendy exemplified golf being much “More Than a Game.” Wendy was passionate about introducing girls to the empowering aspects of the game. She was instrumental in bringing the Solheim Cup to Des Moines and worked tirelessly to increase awareness to women’s golf to the Des Moines area. Wendy passed away in June 2012 but her legacy lives on in the Wendy Carlson Girls Golf Program of First Tee - Central Iowa.