AMES, Iowa — The first woman and second ISU alum to serve as president of Iowa State University says she plans to retire early next year.
Wendy Wintersteen, Iowa State’s 16th president, took over the institution in 2017, but has worked there for more than 45 years.
In an email to the ISU community Friday, she said she told the Iowa Board of Regents she’ll retire in January 2026.
“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.”
Commencement ceremonies at Iowa State began this weekend.