The Iowa Safe Schools Team

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Zach Rus (He/Him/His) is the Executive Director at Iowa Safe Schools. He has devoted his entire career to higher education and philanthropy and is excited to be guiding Iowa Safe Schools during this critical time. His extensive background in nonprofit management, leadership development, and fundraising equips him to implement innovative programs that promote respect and inclusion across Iowa.

 Damian Thompson (He/Him/His) is the Director of External Affairs at Iowa Safe Schools. During his time at Iowa Safe Schools, Damian has spearheaded the organization’s lobbying efforts and serves as the organization’s spokesperson for local and national news outlets. In addition, Damian serves as ISS' chief development officer, partnering with countless donors, foundations, and businesses to support LGBTQ youth.

Jordan Mix (they/them) is the Director of Educational Programming at Iowa Safe Schools. They graduated from Drake University with degrees in Law, Politics, and Society; Sociology; and Women and Gender Studies. They were the president of Drake’s LGBTQ organization, helped establish the first all-gender bathroom on campus, and collaborated in writing Drake’s Transgender Inclusion Statement.

Hannah Mitchell (She/They) is the Director of Youth Engagement at Iowa Safe Schools, where she leads The GSA Network program, supports victims of bullying, speaks at student workshops, and coordinates volunteers for student events.

Mark Turnage (He, Him, His) is the Registrar & Office Manager for Iowa Safe Schools. He coordinates everything, from transcripts to technical support for participants of the Safe Schools Academy, to registration for the annual Governor’s Conference on LGBTQ Youth. 

Want to meet all the four-legged family members of our staff? We figured you would!