Karl and LaNisha Cassell have written this joint column as a farewell, following Ms. Cassell’s announced departure from the African American Museum of Iowa, where she has served as executive director since 2017. She will be stepping down from her role effective Oct. 7, and the Cassells will be relocating to Pennsylvania.
We greatly appreciate this opportunity to publicly thank Cedar Rapids and the Corridor for the amazing journey we’ve been on. As we prepare for a new chapter in our lives, we reflect on the past 20 years we’ve spent in Iowa.
The biggest lesson we’ll take with us is the value servant leadership means to us. Cedar Rapids has been our home, a community that has shaped and nurtured us, allowing our family to grow in ways we have prayed for. So, we’d like to share a little bit about our journey through each other’s eyes.
Karl’s Iowa journey began long before we made it our family’s home. A proud graduate of Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School and a J-Hawk Hall of Famer, Karl’s connection to this community runs deep. From Jefferson to Iowa State University, where he earned his degree, Iowa has helped shape the man he is today. Over the years, Karl has led three organizations with distinction: Jane Boyd Community House, the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission, and Horizons A Family Service Alliance. His involvement on numerous boards and commissions, including St. Luke’s Hospital (UnityPoint Health), his term as president of the Rotary Club of Cedar Rapids, and his leadership on the Linn County Public Health board reflects his deep commitment to the community. His work has always been driven by faith, family, and community — values that have guided him throughout his career. With 20 years of marriage under our belts, serving others and empowering them to serve in return has been a source of true fulfillment for Karl.
One of our greatest sources of pride has been watching our children follow in their dad’s footsteps. Our daughter, Lydia, graduated from Karl’s alma mater, Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School, and was part of the state championship Academic Decathlon team during her senior year. Now in her second year at the University of Iowa, she is double majoring in Psychology and Russian, while also serving as a resident assistant. Our son, Solomon, began his high school journey at Jefferson as well and is currently excelling as a multi-sport athlete and student council member. Witnessing both Lydia and Solomon thrive in the same halls where Karl’s journey began fills us with indescribable pride. Their great start at Cedar Valley Christian School and their continued success within the Cedar Rapids Community School District have been remarkable. Our family also enjoys serving the community together, which has deepened our bond and commitment to giving back.
Karl brought LaNisha from her native Washington, D.C. to the place he called home in 2004. When she joined the African American Museum of Iowa nearly nine years ago, its mission resonated deeply with us both. Faith, family, and community have been at the heart of her work, guiding every decision during her years as executive director. Watching LaNisha lead the museum through a multi-million-dollar renovation project and capital campaign showed us the decision to make Iowa our home was the right decision at the right time. The museum’s grand reopening this past May was a moment of deep pride for our family and everyone involved in making the museum a more vibrant, accessible space. LaNisha’s strong connection to the Marion Foundation, where she spent over half of her 20 years in Iowa, was equally significant. Her efforts to raise awareness, increase visibility, and ensure the sustainability of both institutions have made a lasting impact on the community and in our lives.
LaNisha’s contributions to our community are just as meaningful. Whether volunteering at our children’s schools, as a Sunday school teacher, a Vacation Bible School coordinator, or preparing and serving meals to those impacted by the derecho, she understands what it means to be present and give back. We have worked hard to instill these values in our children, who have often joined us in community service efforts over the years.
As we prepare to leave, we do so with full hearts and deep gratitude for the experiences, relationships, and opportunities we’ve encountered. We look forward to this new chapter, and we will always carry the lessons, friendships, and memories we’ve made in Iowa. To our family, friends, and community, thank you for your love and support. Iowa will always hold a special place in our hearts. May the Lord bless you!
