Make-A-Wish Iowa announced today that Sara Kurovski has been chosen as its new president and CEO.

Kurovski will fill the role most recently held by Rachel Reams, who served as interim president and CEO after Jennifer Woodley was dismissed in July 2020. Reams remains with Make-A-Wish as vice president of missions.

Kurovski, who is currently serving in her second term as mayor of Pleasant Hill, comes to Make-A-Wish Iowa from the United Way of Central Iowa, where she was the director of the Tocqueville Society. During her more than five years with the United Way, she worked with local philanthropic leaders to facilitate long-lasting change through giving in the community, a news release announcing her selection stated.

David Farnsworth, Make-A-Wish Iowa board chair, said he’s “ecstatic” to have Kurovski join the organization.

“This is a critical time for our organization and Sara’s understanding of community, fundraising abilities and innovation will propel our organization forward,” Farnsworth said in the release. “We are fortunate to have someone with her passion and experience lead Make-A-Wish Iowa’s mission.”

Kurovski previously held positions with Metro Waste Authority, where she served as operations program manager, and Kum & Go, where she was the manager of sustainability. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo., and her master’s in public administration from Drake University.

“It is an absolute honor to join the Make-A-Wish Iowa team,” Kurovski said in the release. “I’m incredibly inspired by the work that staff, board, volunteers, and supporters do to grant life-changing wishes for such courageous children, throughout all of Iowa.”

Kurvoski began in her new role today.

Make-A-Wish Iowa granted 108 wishes last year. Before the coronavirus pandemic, a wish was granted almost every other day, said Lexi Konig, the organization’s marketing and communications manager.

Make-A-Wish Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, and to date as granted more than 4,000 wishes to children with critical illnesses. Nationally, more than 330,000 wishes have been granted since the organization was founded in 1980.