Board of Directors Announces New Leadership and Incoming Members

Jan 15, 2026

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines is welcoming new leadership and the appointment of two new board members. Debbie Hubbell begins a two-year term as chair; Steve Lacy will serve as vice chair for a two-year term; and Diane Bridgewater and Mike Simonson are new appointments serving five-year terms. To view the full board, click here.

Debbie Hubbell, chair, is an active community volunteer and civic leader, known for her involvement in local nonprofit and philanthropic efforts. She has served in leadership roles with the Community Foundation Board of Directors and actively contributes her expertise to strategic and charitable giving initiatives. A champion for advancing early childhood education and community wellbeing, Hubbell brings a depth of experience in nonprofit governance, community impact and collaborative leadership. 

Steve Lacy, vice chair, is a seasoned media executive and business leader known for his transformative role in the publishing and media industry and ongoing leadership in executive advisory work. He served as Executive Chairman of Meredith Corporation, from 2009 until his retirement in 2019. Prior, Lacy held roles as CEO and President, leading Meredith through major growth initiatives and strategic expansions. Lacy’s influence extends beyond corporate leadership into community and nonprofit engagement and board service. 

Diane Bridgewater is the retired EVP, Chief Financial & Administrative Officer of LCS, where she served in a strategic advisory role during her transition to retirement. Before joining LCS, she worked for Pioneer Hi-Bred, now known as Corteva, where she held several operational and financial roles, including VP and Business Director, North America Operations and Chief Financial Officer. Bridgewater brings extensive governance experience through her work with public, private and nonprofit boards.  

Mike Simonson currently serves as a council member for the City of Des Moines and is a long-time advocate for community engagement and thoughtful development. Prior to joining the City Council, he served 12 years on the Des Moines Plan and Zoning Commission, helping to shape the city’s growth. In addition to his public service, Simonson has held various leadership roles on nonprofit boards. Recently retired from business, Simonson is the founder of Simonson + Associates Architects LLC, a Des Moines-based firm operating in over 20 states.

"The Community Foundation is fortunate to benefit from the leadership of our Board of Directors. We welcome Diane and Mike with deep appreciation and are thankful for the continued dedication and commitment of Debbie Hubbell and Steve Lacy,” shares Community Foundation President Kristi Knous.  “Their willingness to lend their individual skillsets in building a strong foundation will make our organization, and the communities it serves, better together.”