“I look forward to connecting with current and potential contributors to the Iowa 4-H Foundation.” —Kris Fish Kuhlmann Iowa 4-H?Foundation executive director

AMES – An Algona native and Iowa 4-H alumni, Kris Fish Kulhmann, is the Iowa 4-H Foundation’s new executive director, the foundation announced Feb. 20.

Fish Kuhlmann replaces interim 4-H Foundation executive director Glen Mente on March 12.

She brings her skills in leadership, business, and relationship-building to the organization that provides funding support to the 4-H programs across the state.

In essence, she is an example of what 4-H can mean to young people.

“As we conducted our national search, we knew the ideal candidate would have vision, passion and be dedicated to 4-H.

Kris Fish Kuhlmann bringsa fervent knowledge of 4-H by having been a former state 4-H council member, and she has a proven track record of success and leadership in her career,” said Scott Mortimer, Iowa 4-H Foundation president.

The skills that 4-Hers learn – critical thinking, leadership, communication and social skills – are key components that Fish Kuhlmann will use, Mortimer said, as she builds upon the Iowa 4-H Foundation’s reputation as one of the best of its kind in the country.

“We are very fortunate to have found and selected a candidate that met all of the search committee’s criteria and then some,” he said.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to provide funding for Iowa 4-H youth programming and believe our new executive director will boldly build the foundation’s resources.

“Kris and our team will bring an enthusiastic approach to raising the money needed to continue to grow 4-H.”

Fish Kuhlmann said, “This is an exciting opportunity. I am honored to be associated with the Iowa 4-H Foundation, the ideal model for helping 4-H kids throughout the country.

“I look forward to connecting with current and potential contributors to the Iowa 4-H Foundation.”

Fish Kuhlmann, who lives in Lenexa, Kan., and is relocating to Ames; has established three independent businesses and has experience in human resources management.

She is currently a senior loan officer at Mortgage Lenders of America in Overland Park, Kan. She has an education degree from Iowa State University, and has also studied at Drake University and Webster University in Kansas City.

In addition, the Iowa 4-H Foundation announced that Albert Grunenwald has been promoted as the foundation’s chief operating officer.

“Albert has been with the Foundation for 16 years,”?Mortimer said, “and has grown to be a valuable resource for the Foundation and our donors.

“We look forward to Grunenwald handling these additional responsibilities.”

The search committee was led by four members of the Iowa 4-H Foundation Board of Directors.