Dawn joined IWF as President & CEO in February 2013, leading the Foundation through a decade of tremendous growth in grantmaking, reach, and overall impact. Dawn retired in 2022, but her involvement in the cause did not, and she continues to be a champion for women and girls through advocacy and giving back.

Dawn holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and spent the first 15 years of her career in the public housing field. She then moved into nonprofit management where she focused on fundraising, vision, leadership, and the management of two women’s funds.

Dawn was recognized by HER magazine, a publication of The Gazette, as a 2018 HER Women of Achievement Award honoree. She enthusiastically lives by the belief that “improving the lives of women and girls is a must—not only for our families but our communities and ultimately, our world!”