Iowa Safe Schools has announced Zach Rus as the new executive director of the nonprofit. Rus, previously the engagement director at Ellipsis, has over 10 years of experience in philanthropy, higher education and nonprofit administration. In his new role, he hopes to advance the organization’s mission through collaborative partnerships with educators, community organizations, parents and policymakers, a news release said. “Education has the power to level the playing field, and every student deserves the chance to learn in a space where they feel safe, seen and supported. I’m deeply honored to lead an organization working to make Iowa a safer, more compassionate place for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. This work is necessary and hard, and I’m looking forward to connecting with compassionate individuals and organizations who believe all kids deserve a safe, supportive place to learn, lead and thrive.” Rus said in a prepared statement. After graduating from Simpson College, Rus moved to Chicago, where he led leadership development programming for a nationwide social organization focusing on empowering youth and creating inclusive communities. He has also worked in fundraising consulting for student-led campus-based organizations. He held alumni relations and development roles at the University of Chicago, the Illinois Institute of Technology and Buena Vista University before joining Ellipsis in 2021. He was recognized this year as a Business Record Forty Under 40.