Cook, Deann
Deann joined the Foundation as the new President and CEO at the beginning of 2023. Previously, she had served as the President and CEO of United Ways of Iowa since 2013, and has worked in the nonprofit sector in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines for over 20 years. Deanna grew up on the family farm […]
Schabel, Claudia
Claudia Schabel joined the Iowa Women’s Foundation as Vice President of Programs in June 2025. She brings with her a career-long commitment to building inclusive workplaces and communities where all individuals—especially women and girls—can thrive. Born and raised in Brazil, Claudia’s global perspective was further shaped by five years living and working in Japan before […]
Rickert, Hannah
Hannah grew up in Des Moines and attended the University of Iowa. She earned a BA in Psychology with a concentration in Gender, Women’s, & Sexuality Studies and a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership & Philanthropy—making IWF the perfect place for Hannah to complete an internship. Within three months, the Foundation welcomed Hannah full-time. Hannah is […]
Thompson, Candace
Candace Thompson moved to Iowa city as an infant and has always called Iowa home. She attended Johnson County Community School District K-12 and received her high school diploma from Iowa City High School, graduating class of 2008. She began her career in HR Management in 2018 and, shortly after, became a small business owner, […]
Lane, Jill
Jill joined the Iowa Women’s Foundation as Strategic Initiatives Director in 2025. Rooted in Iowa since childhood, Jill earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Human Services from Buena Vista University. Jill brings a deep passion for advancing women’s economic self-sufficiency and a long background in human services, community development, and advocacy. From founding […]
