About me
Jonnie brings over 20 years of experience in STEM education, curriculum design, and statewide program leadership and currently the Iowa 4-H STEM Focus team leader. In this role, she leads the development of a statewide STEM vision aligned with Iowa State University Extension and national priorities; designs a continuum of STEM learning experiences; and supports curriculum development, training models, and professional development for staff, volunteers, and student educators. She also partners with industry and higher education to ensure real‑world relevance, embeds local needs and youth voice in programming, and advances research, evaluation, and external resourcing efforts to help build sustainable statewide systems. A native of northeast Iowa with deep entrepreneurial roots, Jonnie brings creativity, curiosity, and a passion her work building Iowa's talent pipelines. Her background has focused on expanding access to STEM learning through innovative program design and implementation, with blended online and work‑based programs that transform youth to be real‑world STEM career ready.
Beyond Extension, she is self-proclaimed tech nerd, an emerging artist, Ames High School golf coach, and parent of two young adults and a delightful black lab named Duke. Her philanthropic work centers on women in leadership, technology and science. She currently serves on the board of directors for Iowa Academy of Science.
