Communications

May 16, 2025

Dear Iowa State University faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends,

I have had the good fortune of serving Iowa State University for forty-six years with the last eight as President. It’s been a fascinating journey. In these past years, Iowa State University has reached new heights of research and teaching excellence, continued improvements in student outcomes and national recognition for innovative and entrepreneurial achievements.

I am writing today to announce that I have asked the Iowa Board of Regents to begin a search for the next President of this great university. My hope is that the search process will begin very soon, and the new President will assume the role in January of 2026, whereupon I will retire. I will truly miss our ISU students and their creativity, excitement and potential. 

My husband, Robert and I want to express our deep gratitude for all the faculty and staff who have helped and continue to help Iowa State University achieve and excel in its land-grant mission of education, research and Extension/outreach. Your energy and enthusiasm for our ISU students, our research endeavors and the “Iowa State way” of creating success shines brightly. 

Robert and I also want to share our profound gratitude for the countless alumni, supporters and donors who have established scholarships, endowments and incredible opportunities for our Iowa State students, faculty and staff. Your generosity transforms the lives of so many. We will miss seeing you at university events, but it is time for us to begin the next chapter in our lives.

Finally, I want to especially thank my leadership team. During the past eight years, we have navigated a dynamic period of challenges, surprises and growth. Together, we have continued to move Iowa State forward on numerous fronts to the best of our ability. I know that our future President will find in them a collegial and dedicated set of leaders to continue that process.

Again, my sincere and deep thanks to all of you for the trust that you have placed in me to serve Iowa State University. It has been an honor.

Wendy

Wendy Wintersteen, President