Orient, Iowa – The Wallace Centers of Iowa has appointed Rebecca Stavick as its new executive director, effective immediately. The move comes as the organization, dedicated to preserving the legacy of agricultural pioneers Henry and Florence Wallace and promoting sustainable farming practices, looks to expand its reach and impact across the state. Stavick’s appointment signals a new chapter for the Wallace Centers, which oversees both the historic Wallace Farm near Orient and the Wallace House in Des Moines, vital hubs for connecting Iowans with local food systems and agricultural heritage.
Stavick brings to the role over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership. Most notably, she founded and led Do Space, Omaha’s nationally recognized community technology library. Under her direction, Do Space grew to serve over 98,000 members by 2025, becoming a model for digital inclusion and community innovation. Her background in building and scaling impactful programs is expected to be instrumental as the Wallace Centers navigates its future growth.
A Legacy of Sustainable Agriculture
The Wallace Centers of Iowa are deeply rooted in the history of American agriculture. Henry A. Wallace, a former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Vice President, was a champion of hybrid corn and a pioneer in sustainable farming methods. The organization’s website details the family’s commitment to agricultural research and its enduring influence on modern farming practices. The Wallace Farm, a working farm and educational center, continues to explore innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, although the Wallace House in Des Moines hosts programs focused on food systems, policy and community engagement.
The Centers’ operate is particularly relevant in a time of increasing focus on food security and environmental sustainability. Iowa, as a major agricultural state, plays a critical role in the national food supply. The Wallace Centers aim to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Iowa’s agricultural community and to promote practices that benefit both farmers and consumers. They offer workshops, farm tours, and educational programs designed to engage a wide range of audiences, from students to seasoned farmers.
Stavick’s Vision for the Future
Jim Hoyt, chair of the Wallace Centers of Iowa board of directors, expressed confidence in Stavick’s ability to lead the organization forward. “The board of directors conducted an extensive search for our new executive director,” Hoyt said in a prepared statement. “From a deep set of candidates, Rebecca emerged as an extraordinary choice to lead Wallace Centers of Iowa to new levels of growth and impact.”
Stavick will be responsible for overseeing all operations and staff at both the Wallace Farm and the Wallace House. While specific plans for her tenure are still being developed, she has indicated a strong commitment to building on the organization’s existing strengths and expanding its reach. Her experience at Do Space suggests a focus on accessibility and community engagement, potentially bringing new technologies and innovative programming to the Wallace Centers.
Expanding Educational Programs
One area of potential growth is the expansion of educational programs at both locations. The Wallace Farm already offers workshops on topics such as organic gardening, soil health, and livestock management. The Wallace House hosts events focused on food policy, local food systems, and the history of agriculture. Stavick’s leadership could lead to the development of new programs tailored to different audiences, including school groups, community organizations, and aspiring farmers. She may as well explore opportunities to leverage technology to reach a wider audience through online courses and virtual tours.
The Wallace Centers also play a role in supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. They partner with local organizations to provide resources and training to farmers, and they advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture. Stavick’s experience in community development could help strengthen these partnerships and expand the organization’s impact on the local agricultural economy.
Looking Ahead
The Wallace Centers of Iowa are poised for a period of growth and innovation under Stavick’s leadership. Her background in building successful community-based organizations, coupled with her commitment to sustainability and innovation, makes her a strong fit for the role. The organization’s next publicly scheduled event is a farm-to-table dinner at the Wallace Farm on July 12th, according to the events calendar on their website. This event will offer a first opportunity for the community to meet Stavick and learn more about her vision for the future of the Wallace Centers.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this appointment and the future of sustainable agriculture in Iowa in the comments below. Please also share this article with anyone who might be interested in learning more about the Wallace Centers of Iowa and their important work.
