Lutheran Services in Iowa has appointed Renee Hardman as its new president and CEO, effective Jan. 23, the organization announced Thursday.

The statewide nonprofit provides a range of services and programs for children and youth, people with disabilities and immigrant and refugee communities. It is one of the largest human services agencies in Iowa, according to the announcement.

“I am honored and humbled to lead an organization that does such good work throughout the state for families, children, immigrants, refugees, persons with disabilities, DEI, and so many more,” Hardman said in a prepared statement. “Serving my community and all 99 Iowa counties is my lifelong passion, and I am so excited to lift up our collective work while transforming and positively enhancing LSI’s brand.”

Hardman is currently serving her second term as a city councilwoman for the city of West Des Moines. Her previous roles include chief DEI officer and vice president of human resources for Broadlawns Medical Center, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, and senior vice president of human resources for Bankers Trust.

“We believe [Hardman’s] experience as an accomplished business professional, nonprofit executive, and dedicated community leader will guide LSI in a positive and progressive direction, and we are excited to see how her vision and creativity help to shape the future of this 160-year-old organization.”

Hardman is involved in local, state and national organizations, including the BBBS National Diversity Committee, the Governor’s DEI Task Force, Des Moines University, West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, Polk County Housing Trust Fund and the Iowa Association for the Education of Young People. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Business Administration from Drake University.

Hardman has been recognized by the Business Record as the Forty Under 40 Alumna of the Year, a Woman of Influence, and as one of the Top 25 Des Moines Business Leaders.