In a message sent today to the campus community, Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen announced her plans to retire in January 2026. Wintersteen became the first woman and second ISU alum to hold the university’s highest office when she was named the 16th president of Iowa State in 2017.
“I am fortunate to have served Iowa State University in many roles over the past 46 years, and it’s been a fascinating journey,” Wintersteen said. “I am truly proud of Iowa State’s extraordinary faculty and staff for their remarkable performance these past years. Perhaps most of all, I will miss the amazing energy, talent and potential of our Iowa State students.”
President Wintersteen’s tenure has been marked by new and renovated facilities across campus, record research grants and awards for innovation, significant improvements in student outcomes, a vast increase in the ISU Research Park and strong fundraising success.
Iowa Board of Regents President Sherry Bates said, “Under President Wintersteen’s leadership, Iowa State’s reputation has soared, particularly in research growth, student outcomes and an emphasis on innovation. With her steady guidance, Iowa State has met and overcome many external challenges, including a derecho, an international pandemic and more. The state of Iowa has been blessed to have an accomplished leader like Wendy Wintersteen leading this great land-grant university.”