University of Iowa Alumna Sheila Baldwin to Lead Center for Advancement
This spring, a familiar face will take charge at the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. Sheila Baldwin, known for her longstanding contributions to the university, has been appointed as the new president and CEO. Baldwin, who graduated from the University of Iowa in 1998, is set to assume her new role on May 4, 2026.
PHOTO: University of Iowa Center for Advancement
Sheila Baldwin (98BBA)
Baldwin is stepping into the position following a national search, succeeding Lynette Marshall, who announced her retirement plans in July 2025 after two decades at the helm.
Chris DeWolf, chair of the UI Center for Advancement Board of Directors, remarked on Baldwin’s appointment, highlighting her leadership skills and vision for the university. “Sheila distinguished herself as a leader with a deep understanding of our mission, a proven ability to deliver results, and the vision to guide us forward during a pivotal moment for the university,” said DeWolf.
From the time she was a student, she understood the power of philanthropy to transform lives and advance discovery. Since then, shes made a remarkable impact through her work with our donors.
University of Iowa President Barbara Wilson
Baldwin’s connection to the University of Iowa runs deep. As a student, she co-founded the University of Iowa Dance Marathon, an organization that continues to thrive three decades later. Her 25-year tenure at the university has been marked by a commitment to enhancing the experiences of students, patients, and academics alike.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Sheila Baldwin
Sheila Baldwin (right) served as the executive director of UI Dance Marathon in her senior year at the University of Iowa.
University of Iowa President Barbara Wilson praised Baldwin’s ongoing dedication to the institution, saying, “Sheilas leadership reflects a deep commitment to the University of Iowa and the people we serve. From the time she was a student, she understood the power of philanthropy to transform lives and advance discovery. Since then, shes made a remarkable impact through her work with our donors, and I am confident she will be an outstanding partner as we continue to move the university forward.”
Throughout her career at Iowa, Baldwin has successfully directed fundraising efforts for various sectors, including UI Health Care and Intercollegiate Athletics. She was instrumental as the chief fundraiser for the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Childrens Hospital, which opened in 2017.
PHOTO: Courtesy of Sheila Baldwin
As a first-year student at the University of Iowa, Sheila Baldwin (bottom row, third from left) was a founding member of UI Dance Marathon.
Cathy Zaharis, past chair of the UI Center for Advancement Board, emphasized Baldwin’s unique skill set, noting, “Sheila brings an extraordinary combination of experience, credibility, and collaborative leadership. Her ability to connect people to purpose, and to translate that into meaningful philanthropic support, will be instrumental as we continue to advance Iowas mission.”
Baldwin will become the fourth leader of the 72-year-old organization, which plays a crucial role in advancing the University of Iowa through engagement and philanthropy. The UI Center for Advancement is nearing the conclusion of the Together, Hawkeyes campaign, a comprehensive fundraising initiative aimed at securing the university’s future.
Expressing gratitude for her new role, Baldwin said, “I am deeply grateful to the colleagues, donors, and campus partners who make this work so meaningful. The University of Iowa Center for Advancement plays a vital role in connecting generosity to impact, and Im excited to build on our strong foundation as we continue to inspire philanthropy and engagement to support Iowas future.”
Media inquiries: Rebekah Tilley, rebekah.tilley@foriowa.org
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