By Hola Iowa
Schabel officially stepped into the role on April 1 as the statewide nonprofit continues its work to support the economic prosperity of women and girls across Iowa.
The Iowa Women’s Foundation has named Claudia Schabel as its new president and CEO, marking a new chapter for the statewide nonprofit as it continues to expand its efforts to support women and girls across Iowa.
The organization announced that Schabel officially assumed the role on April 1, 2026.
Based in Coralville, the Iowa Women’s Foundation is the only statewide organization focused specifically on improving women’s economic prosperity. Through research, education, advocacy, grantmaking and collaboration, the nonprofit works with partners across Iowa to help women and girls thrive.
Schabel joined the foundation in June 2025 and now steps into the top leadership role at a key moment for the organization.
According to the Iowa Women’s Foundation, Schabel brings a long record of leadership in both professional and volunteer roles, along with a sustained commitment to helping build communities and workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Her work has earned her several honors over the years, including the 2024 Drake University Zimpleman College of Business Women’s Impact Award, the 2023 Iowa State University Ivy College of Business Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, and the 2010 State of Iowa Robert D. Ray Iowa Latino Ambassador Award.
IWF Board Chair Barb Baker said the board selected Schabel because of her strong commitment to the organization’s mission and her ability to lead strategically.
“The Board has selected Claudia as our new president and CEO for her deep commitment to the women and girls of Iowa and her proven abilities in strategic visioning, advocacy, and stakeholder collaboration,” Baker said. “We have full confidence in her leadership to advance our mission, expand our grantmaking reach, and ensure that every woman in our state has the opportunity to thrive economically.”
The leadership transition also comes with recognition for outgoing president and CEO Deann Cook, whose work helped shape the foundation’s growth and long-term impact.
“On behalf of the Board and the entire IWF community, we also express our deepest gratitude to outgoing president and CEO, Deann Cook,” Baker said. “Her dedication to shattering barriers has not only strengthened our organization but has created lasting change for women and girls across Iowa. We are a stronger, more resilient Foundation because of her vision.”
Cook also expressed confidence in Schabel’s leadership and in the future of the organization.
“IWF’s mission to empower women and girls is vital to Iowa,” Cook said. “Claudia is an excellent choice to lead this work into the next chapter. I believe she and her team will continue the lasting legacy of impact.”
For her part, Schabel said she is ready to build on the foundation’s work and continue expanding its reach across the state.
“I am honored to step into this new role with IWF and work alongside such a dedicated staff, community/state leaders, volunteers, and donors,” Schabel said. “I stand on the shoulders of those who founded and grew IWF and look forward to building upon the organization’s strong history to advance our vision.”
The Iowa Women’s Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that invests in and supports initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and girls throughout Iowa. Its work centers on creating pathways to greater economic opportunity and long-term success for women across the state.
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