Des Moines, IA — In May 2025, Stacy Cervenka was appointed by Governor Kim Reynolds to serve as Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind. She officially assumed the role on July 7, 2025.
After serving the department for eight months, Cervenka had conversations with Senators Kara Warme and Sarah Trone Garriott of the Health and Human Services Committee on March 18, 2026. She shared information with them about the department’s work, mission, programs, services, and its impact on blind and low vision Iowans. Both senators expressed their support, and Cervenka concluded the discussion by inviting them to tour the agency. The following day, she met with the full Health and Human Services Committee, where her nomination was approved.
Earlier this week, her nomination advanced to a full Senate floor vote. On March 30, Cervenka was introduced to the Senate by Secretary of the Senate Charles Smithson. Several senators spoke with her, asking questions about the agency and her vision for the future. She provided additional details about the department’s programs and services and extended invitations for senators to visit the agency for tours and further engagement.
On April 2, Cervenka received a call from Governor Reynolds congratulating her on her confirmation by the Senate. The Governor expressed her continued support for the department’s work and her appreciation for the agency’s staff.
“I am extremely grateful for the support of Governor Reynolds, the Senators, and the Iowa Legislature,” said Cervenka. “I look forward to building on the department’s successes and expanding opportunities for blind and low vision Iowans.”