Des Moines, Iowa — As the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, it proudly announces the creation of the Iowa Girl Foundation—a bold new step to strengthen the future of girls’ athletics and leadership in Iowa.

“The Iowa Girl Foundation allows us to expand beyond championships,” said IGHSAU Executive Director Erin Gerlich. “We want to reach every girl in Iowa through education, empowerment, and early engagement—not just those competing at state tournaments.”

The Foundation’s core initiatives include:
Empowering the Iowa Girl – An educational tour free to schools promoting the value of school-based activities and leadership.

Future Champions – Youth clinics at IGHSAU state championships aimed at skill development and inspiration.

Scholarships – Recognizing standout student-athletes across Iowa.

“The IGHSAU has been a trailblazer in girls’ sports for nearly 100 years,” said Iowa Girl Foundation Board President Russ Adams. “This is our way of giving back to a culture that has shaped generations of women.”

The Iowa Girl Foundation website is now live: www.iowagirlfoundation.org

Foundation Board Members:
– Russ Adams (President) – Retired Superintendent, MOC-Floyd Valley; former IGHSAU Board of Director

– Josh Schamberger (Vice President) – President, Think Iowa City
– Lisa Bluder – Retired Women’s Basketball Coach, University of Iowa

– Laura Leonard – MVC & Iowa PBS Sports Analyst
– Scott Raecker – Director, Robert D. and Billie Ray Center
– George Tracy – Retired Official; former IGHSAU Board
– Matt Weih – VP, Central State Bank
– Kiersten Schneider (Treasurer) – Business Manager, IGHSAU
– Jason Eslinger  (Secretary) – Senior Associate Director, IGHSAU