University of Iowa Center for Advancement Launches Search for President and CEO
The University of Iowa Center for Advancement (UICA) has begun the search for its next president and CEO following Lynette Marshall's announcement that she plans to retire in summer 2026. Marshall has led the UICA for more than 20 years, guiding a period of extraordinary philanthropic growth, deeper alumni engagement, and steadfast support for the University of Iowa.
“The UICA has been transformed under Lynette’s leadership, and her impact will be felt for generations,” says Chris DeWolf, chair-elect of the UICA Board of Directors and chair of the search committee. “As we look to the future, we are committed to finding a leader who can build on this legacy and continue to strengthen our mission to advance the University of Iowa through engagement and philanthropy.”
“As we look to the future, we are committed to finding a leader who can build on this legacy and continue to strengthen our mission to advance the University of Iowa through engagement and philanthropy.” —Chris DeWolf
The UICA Board of Directors has launched a national search led by a committee of respected university leaders, board members, and distinguished alumni, representing a broad spectrum of experience and insight.
- Dan Clay, Dean, University of Iowa College of Education
- Andy Code, Chair, UICA Board of Directors
- Chris DeWolf, Chair-elect, UICA Board of Directors
- Jerre Stead, UI Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient, Past UICA Board Member, and Honorary Chair of the Together Hawkeyes Campaign
- Tom Veale, Finance Committee Chair, UICA Board of Directors
- Barbara Wilson, President, University of Iowa
- Cathy Zaharis, Vice Chair, UICA Board of Directors
To support this effort, the UICA Board of Directors has retained Pearson Partners International (PPI), a trusted executive search and leadership consulting firm with a proven record in nonprofit and higher education advancement. PPI’s longstanding relationship with the UICA and deep understanding of the Iowa City community will guide a thoughtful and inclusive process to identify exceptional candidates.
The search committee is gathering input from key stakeholders to shape the position profile, then launching a national search to attract a broad pool of candidates. In keeping with the confidentiality and governance standards of the UICA Board of Directors, this announcement will serve as the only public update on the search process until the appointment of the next president and CEO.
The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the UI through engagement and philanthropy. The president and CEO provides strategic leadership in this work, ensuring the university has the resources and relationships it needs to thrive.
For more information, please contact uiowa@foriowa.org.