Sheri McMichael has announced she is retiring from Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa after 23 years in the executive director role. She will step down in September 2024.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as Variety’s executive director,” McMichael said in a statement. “I am immensely grateful to have been part of an organization that is dedicated to enriching the lives of children throughout Iowa. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I am proud of the positive impact we have made. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the entire Variety Iowa team, donors, community partners, and, most importantly, the families and children we have had the honor to serve.”

In a press release, the board of directors highlighted Variety’s growth under McMichael’s tenure, commending her “outstanding leadership and commitment to the organization’s mission.”

Wendy Ingham will succeed McMichael beginning in May, following a search led by Career Search Associates of West Des Moines. Ingham will work with McMichael over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition. Ingham is joining Variety after six years at Orchard Place as the vice president of development.

Ingham’s professional career experience includes nonprofit organization management, event planning, strategic fundraising, grant writing and planned giving. Before working at Orchard Place, Ingham spent eight years as the director of development and annual fund coordinator for Youth Homes of Mid-America.

She has volunteered with organizations such as the Junior League of Des Moines and the Western Hills Elementary School Parent Teachers Organization. She currently is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and Mid-Iowa Planned Giving Council. Ingham has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and communication studies from the University of Iowa.

“Growing up in the Des Moines area, I am well aware of the impact and legacy of Variety – the Children’s Charity in the state of Iowa,” Ingham said in a prepared statement. “I have witnessed firsthand the impact of Variety’s grants at the charities I have been privileged to serve. I am truly humbled and honored to follow Sheri’s outstanding leadership and all of the other board members, volunteers and stakeholders who have worked so tirelessly to improve the lives of Iowa children. I understand this life-changing work takes a community, and I am beyond excited to meet Variety’s many supporters and to work alongside them.”