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…
Imagine this: two moms, Susie Quinn and Shelby Wartick, connected through a local organization, YP Dubuque. They built a friendship that weathered career changes, growing families, and the ups and downs of life. Fast forward to 2022, and their teenage sons, like many young people impacted by COVID, struggled to find their place within the traditional school system. Traditional sports and activities didn't quite click, leaving a void of connection and purpose.
But Susie and Shelby noticed something special. Their sons, both passionate gamers, thrived in online communities built around their favorite games. Witnessing firsthand the leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills honed in these virtual spaces, a spark ignited.
What if, they thought, there was a way to bridge the gap? A way to harness the power of esports to create a positive, structured environment where young people could connect, develop essential skills, and celebrate their love of gaming?
Driven by this vision, Susie and Shelby embarked on a journey. They delved into the world of scholastic esports, realizing the potential to empower a generation. With unwavering determination, they decided to make it their mission to bring this opportunity to their community.
The Dubuque Esports League wasn't born out of a business plan or a trend. It bloomed from the heart of two mothers who saw the potential within their sons and countless others. It's a testament to the power of community, the resilience of youth, and the transformative force of following your passion.
This is our story. This is how the Dubuque Esports League got started.
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.