Tara K. Connolly has been named the president of the Iowa College Foundation (ICF). She is the first woman to lead the organization in its 74-year history, according to a news release made available on Monday, July 13.
Ms. Connolly succeeds Ed Finn, who retired after a decade as president of the group. She assumes the presidency as the Des Moines-based ICF builds on renewed momentum, expanding its statewide impact through strategic partnerships, philanthropy, and innovative initiatives that increase access to 21 independent colleges and universities.
As president-elect over the past year, Ms. Connolly collaborated with the Board of Governors and leadership team on a comprehensive strategic planning process. This effort yielded a refreshed mission and vision, modernized governance, a bold new brand identity, and stronger positioning for long-term growth — advancing the vision of “Where the Future of Iowa Belongs.”
Ms. Connolly brings more than two decades of experience in higher education advancement, nonprofit leadership, and cross-sector fundraising. Most recently, she served as executive director of the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Foundation, where she led record-setting fundraising initiatives, expanded corporate and community engagement, and increased scholarship support for students across six campuses.
Her background also includes leadership roles in health and human services philanthropy, where she supported community-based initiatives and expanded access to essential services. Earlier in her career, she held roles in public service and civic engagement, sharpening her ability to build coalitions, navigate complex systems, and advocate for mission-driven change.
“The Iowa College Foundation is better positioned than ever to serve students and our member institutions,” said Marty Fredericks, chair of the Iowa College Foundation Board of Governors. “Tara is a visionary leader who brings strategic thinking, exceptional fundraising expertise, and an unwavering commitment to higher education. Throughout the past year she has demonstrated the collaborative leadership needed to guide ICF into its next chapter, and the Board is excited about the future under her leadership.”
Founded in 1952, the Iowa College Foundation champions 21 independent nonprofit colleges and universities serving more than 30,000 students statewide. Through philanthropy and partnerships, ICF removes financial barriers to higher education, strengthens Iowa’s talent pipeline, and builds a brighter future for our state.
Under Ms. Connolly’s leadership, ICF will accelerate its mission: removing financial barriers so every learner can access the transformative education at Iowa’s independent colleges—unlocking opportunity, inspiring leaders, and building Iowa’s future.
“As a graduate of two independent, nonprofit universities it is an incredible honor to serve as president of the Iowa College Foundation,” said Ms. Connolly. “Iowa’s independent, nonprofit colleges and universities have long been engines of opportunity, innovation, and leadership development. They prepare graduates not only for successful careers, but for lives of purpose, service, and leadership in their communities. Together with our member institutions and donors we have an extraordinary opportunity to expand educational access, strengthen Iowa’s talent pipeline, and invest in the future of our state.”
Looking ahead, Ms. Connolly will focus on expanding philanthropic investment in Iowa’s independent colleges and universities, strengthening corporate and foundation partnerships, growing statewide scholarship support, and advancing collaborative initiatives that prepare students for success while meeting Iowa’s evolving workforce needs.
“Every scholarship awarded represents more than financial assistance. It represents opportunity, possibility, and the future of Iowa,” Ms. Connolly said. “Together, we will continue ensuring that students have access to the life-changing education offered by our member schools while strengthening the communities and employers that depend on their success.”
Founded in 1952, the Iowa College Foundation is a statewide nonprofit organization representing 21 independent colleges and universities in Iowa. Through philanthropy and strategic partnerships, ICF increases access to higher education, removes financial barriers for students, and champions the value of Iowa’s independent institutions in building a stronger workforce and a stronger Iowa.
