Dubuque Esports League is a 501(c)3 charitable organization encouraging competitive and recreational players to develop skills through hands-on, experiential learning. Esports is for all ages; it starts with programming focused on middle and high schoolers and young adults.
DEL MISSION
To provide opportunities for EVERYONE to use esports as a platform to develop STEM-based skills, grow in their social-emotional attributes and characteristics, discover career pathways, and enhance skills needed to thrive in work and life.
DEL VISION
To create a safe, inclusive, and positive community for EVERYONE who chooses gaming as a platform to grow and be society’s next game-changers.
DEL LEADERSHIP
Established in September 2022 by co-founders Susie Quinn and Shelby Wartick, Dubuque Esports League is led by a Board of Directors, who oversee our team of staff and volunteers to ensure adherence to DEL's mission and vision while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Our Board of Directors provides leadership in areas such as finance, human resources, information technology, esports, mental wellness, scholastic insights, marketing, and more.
Susie Quinn, the Volunteer Executive Director, oversees day-to-day operations, motivates staff, manages finances, and strives to create impact through our valuable mission.
HOW DEL IS FUNDED
DEL relies on grants, sponsors, fundraisers and community partnerships to support our mission and programs. While we collect a small fee from our esports participants and teams to sustain DEL, our scholarship fund relies on community support. We strive to offer scholarships as funds become available to ensure that those facing economic hardships can access the benefits of our well-rounded esports programs.
How it all started…
The Dubuque Esports League was born from a shared vision of creating opportunities for young people in our community. In 2022, like many families navigating the challenges of post-COVID life, two moms, Susie Quinn and Shelby Wartick, noticed their teenage sons struggling to connect with traditional school activities and sports.
However, they also noticed something remarkable: their sons, both avid gamers, thrived in online communities built around their favorite games. These virtual spaces nurtured leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills—qualities that are invaluable in any environment.
Inspired by this realization, Susie and Shelby envisioned a way to harness the power of esports to build a positive, structured environment where young people could connect, grow, and celebrate their passion for gaming. They began exploring the world of scholastic esports, recognizing its potential to empower a generation.
This initial spark led to the creation of the Dubuque Esports League—a community-driven initiative designed to provide local youth with opportunities to develop essential skills and foster a sense of belonging through gaming.
Our Values
Family
Community
Leadership
Team-building
Integrity
Discipline
Perseverance
Respect
Personal growth
Lifelong learning
How esports can positively impact your life.
The University of Iowa Student Megan Andress shares details about how esports are a part of her life. After graduating from a Dubuque, Iowa, school, Megan discovered esports at the U of I. She mentions how she had social anxiety and found a community of friends through gaming and esports. She also shares how gaming is a part of her career and has taught her valuable life lessons.