Iowa State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Iowa State University has 10 executives leading key functions including technology, operations, and faculty governance.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Iowa State University fosters a dynamic academic environment through diverse opportunities like undergraduate research, internships, and global study programs, solidifying its impact in higher education.

Leadership Roles at Iowa State University

  • Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of - Kimberly McDonough
  • Faculty Senate President - Sarah Bennett-George
  • President, Civil Ladies - Rebecca Dailey
  • Chapter President - Milan Loutsch
  • Consulting Club President - Kyle Almgren
  • President - Ed Gagnier
  • President & Community Organizer - Rohit Gandhe
  • Chief Technology Officer - Nadilia Gomez
  • Chief of Staff - Jonathan Shaeffer
  • Senior Director - Chief Information Officer Office - Angela Bradley
  • Kimberly McDonough - Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of

    Kimberly McDonough, the Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of at Iowa State University, spearheads critical projects aimed at advancing the university's strategic objectives. This dual role involves managing complex initiatives from conception through completion, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and resource allocation. McDonough's responsibilities include developing project plans, coordinating stakeholder engagement, and monitoring progress to achieve desired outcomes. The President, Office of aspect of this position indicates a significant leadership capacity within a key administrative office, likely supporting high-level decision-making and operational execution. Kimberly McDonough drives forward key programs that enhance the university's educational offerings, research capabilities, and overall operational effectiveness. This executive's work directly contributes to the university's growth and its mission to serve students and the broader community through innovative projects.
    Kimberly McDonough

    Sarah Bennett-George - Faculty Senate President

    Sarah Bennett-George, the Faculty Senate President at Iowa State University, represents the faculty's collective voice in university governance and policy development. This significant leadership role involves presiding over faculty senate meetings, facilitating discussions on academic matters, and advocating for faculty interests. Bennett-George works to ensure that university policies reflect the needs and perspectives of the academic community, fostering a collaborative environment between faculty and administration. The Faculty Senate President plays a crucial part in shaping academic standards, curriculum development, and faculty welfare initiatives. Sarah Bennett-George's leadership ensures that faculty input is integrated into strategic decisions, promoting academic excellence and institutional integrity. This position is vital for maintaining a robust and responsive academic structure within the university.

    Rebecca Dailey - President, Civil Ladies

    Rebecca Dailey, the President, Civil Ladies at Iowa State University, leads a prominent student organization focused on community engagement and leadership development. This role involves guiding the organization's strategic direction, overseeing its activities, and fostering a supportive environment for its members. Dailey manages the operational aspects of the Civil Ladies, including event planning, member recruitment, and financial oversight. The President's responsibilities extend to representing the organization within the broader university community and collaborating with other student groups and university departments. Rebecca Dailey's leadership aims to enhance the organization's impact on campus life and its contribution to student growth. This position cultivates essential leadership skills and promotes active participation in university affairs.

    Milan Loutsch - Chapter President

    Milan Loutsch, the Chapter President at Iowa State University, directs the operations and strategic initiatives of a specific student chapter. This leadership role involves overseeing chapter activities, managing member engagement, and ensuring the chapter's alignment with its national or organizational objectives. Loutsch is responsible for fostering a strong sense of community among chapter members and promoting the chapter's mission within the university. The Chapter President facilitates communication between chapter members, university administration, and the parent organization. Milan Loutsch's leadership focuses on driving chapter growth, enhancing member development opportunities, and executing successful programs and events. This position cultivates valuable leadership and organizational skills, contributing to the vibrant student life at Iowa State University.

    Kyle Almgren - Consulting Club President

    Kyle Almgren, the Consulting Club President at Iowa State University, leads a student organization dedicated to developing consulting skills and connecting students with industry opportunities. This executive position involves guiding the club's strategic direction, organizing professional development workshops, and facilitating networking events with consulting firms. Almgren oversees the club's operations, including member recruitment, event management, and financial planning. The Consulting Club President serves as the primary liaison between the club, its members, and external partners. Kyle Almgren's leadership aims to provide members with practical experience, career insights, and valuable connections within the consulting field. This role is instrumental in preparing students for successful careers in consulting and related business disciplines.

    Ed Gagnier - President

    Ed Gagnier, the President at Iowa State University, holds a significant leadership position within a university-affiliated organization or department. This role involves providing strategic direction, overseeing operational functions, and ensuring the entity's objectives align with the broader university mission. Gagnier manages key resources, guides team performance, and fosters an environment conducive to achieving organizational goals. The President's responsibilities often include stakeholder engagement, financial oversight, and the development of long-term strategic plans. Ed Gagnier's leadership is critical for the success and growth of the organization, driving initiatives that enhance its impact and reach within the university community and beyond. This position requires strong decision-making capabilities and a comprehensive understanding of the organization's operational landscape.

    Rohit Gandhe - President & Community Organizer

    Rohit Gandhe, the President & Community Organizer at Iowa State University, leads initiatives focused on both organizational management and grassroots community engagement. This dual role involves strategic leadership of a group or organization, coupled with active efforts to connect with and mobilize community members. Gandhe oversees the operational aspects of the presidency while simultaneously driving community outreach programs and fostering collaborative relationships. The President & Community Organizer role requires a blend of administrative acumen and interpersonal skills to effectively lead and engage diverse stakeholders. Rohit Gandhe's efforts are directed towards strengthening the organization's presence and impact, both internally and within the wider community, promoting positive change and collective action.

    Nadilia Gomez - Chief Technology Officer

    Nadilia Gomez, the Chief Technology Officer at Iowa State University, directs the institution's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. This leadership role involves architecting scalable IT solutions that support academic research, administrative functions, and student services across the university. Gomez oversees the integration of emerging technologies to enhance learning environments and operational efficiency. The Chief Technology Officer ensures robust cybersecurity measures and data integrity, safeguarding sensitive university information. This position drives innovation in digital platforms, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration among faculty, staff, and students. Nadilia Gomez's strategic vision guides the university's technological advancements, ensuring alignment with its educational mission and long-term growth objectives. The scope of this role encompasses managing all aspects of the university's technology portfolio, from hardware and software to network operations and digital transformation initiatives.

    Jonathan Shaeffer - Chief of Staff

    Jonathan Shaeffer, the Chief of Staff at Iowa State University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the university's executive leadership. This role involves managing key initiatives, coordinating cross-departmental projects, and ensuring efficient communication flow between different university divisions. Shaeffer facilitates the execution of strategic plans, acting as a liaison between the President's office and other administrative units. The Chief of Staff analyzes complex issues, develops recommendations, and supports decision-making processes at the highest levels. This position is critical for optimizing institutional effectiveness and driving forward the university's core objectives. Jonathan Shaeffer's responsibilities include preparing reports, managing schedules, and ensuring that executive priorities are addressed promptly and effectively. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to fostering a cohesive and productive leadership team, enhancing the university's overall operational performance and strategic alignment.

    Angela Bradley - Senior Director - Chief Information Officer Office

    Angela Bradley, the Senior Director - Chief Information Officer Office at Iowa State University, manages critical information technology operations and strategic planning within the CIO's purview. This leadership position involves overseeing the implementation of IT policies and procedures that support the university's academic and research endeavors. Bradley directs teams responsible for IT service delivery, infrastructure management, and technology adoption across various campus departments. The Senior Director ensures that technology investments align with institutional goals, driving efficiency and innovation. Angela Bradley's role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and security of the university's information systems, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term technological development. This executive's focus includes enhancing user experience through improved IT services and support, contributing significantly to the university's digital transformation efforts.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Iowa State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Iowa State University?
    Iowa State University is led by Kimberly McDonough (Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of), along with executives such as Sarah Bennett-George (Faculty Senate President) and Rebecca Dailey (President, Civil Ladies).
    Who is part of Iowa State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Iowa State University includes leaders such as Kimberly McDonough (Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of), Sarah Bennett-George (Faculty Senate President), Rebecca Dailey (President, Civil Ladies) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Iowa State University have?
    Iowa State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Iowa State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Iowa State University includes roles such as Strategic Initiatives Project Specialist & President, Office of, Faculty Senate President, President, Civil Ladies, Chapter President, Consulting Club President.