Faces of STEM: Assistant Director for Development Carrie Rankin's Path to STEM

Carrie Rankin
Carrie serves in a key role of the Governor's STEM Advisory Council as assistant director for development.

As assistant director for development for the Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council, Carrie Rankin plays a key role in STEM Council efforts.

Despite her many responsibilities, Rankin is primarily focused on furthering the investment in STEM Council initiatives through business to business partnerships. Her work is concentrated on sharing time, talent and treasure to invest in tools and programming that will be reciprocated through the future workforce.

"These partnerships produce further awareness and impact to Iowans, resulting in students who are well prepared for the future," said Rankin. "I truly believe that every business can use a STEM-educated student. It's just one of the many reasons I love what I do."

STEM has been present in one way or another throughout Rankin's previous 20 years of development experience. She was the development director for the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Foundation and the Allen Foundation at UnityPoint Health. She also established the Waterloo Schools Foundation in 2010 where she served as executive director.

During her time with the Waterloo Schools Foundation, Rankin had the opportunity to attend a STEM Council conference in Des Moines. Her interest in attending was attributed primarily to having young children at home at the time and wanting to be involved in their education. Little did she know, the conference would forever change her perception of STEM and the impact it has on every student, career and industry.

"I have two daughters at home who inspire me every day to reach beyond what we think is possible and really move the needle for STEM in Iowa," said Rankin. "It is so rewarding to see the opportunities STEM brings to my kids, their friends and so many other students, teachers and businesses across the state."

For more information about partnering with the STEM Council, contact Carrie Rankin (Rankin@IowaSTEM.gov).

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