Rhonda Conrad is the new dean of Ottumwa Leadership Academy, Hollie Tometich, executive director, announced this week.

The volunteer position collaborate with the Curriculum Committee of the Advisory Board and with the executive director to review, evaluate and improve the curriculum and helps facilitate the monthly sessions.

Conrad was executive director for Indian Hills Community College Foundation for seven years prior to her retirement and spent most of her career at the college, a press release from the Leadership Academy says.

Conrad served as IHCC Development Director for five years and was instructor of Business and Communications for 15 years. She is active in Ottumwa Hy-Noon Kiwanis, is a member and finance council person for St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a member of the Fortnightly Ladies group.

According to the press release, Conrad is known for her ability to connect with others in regards to philanthropy. She and her team grew IHCC Foundation’s assets from $19.5 million to more than $26 million, organized annual giving campaigns at IHCC that yielded $50,000 to $60,000 for student scholarships and had 100 percent staff participation from 2005 to 2014.

IHCC Foundation has worked with several hundred women from the Wapello County area in funding more than $70,000 in perpetual scholarships for local women attending IHCC.

Applications for next year’s Leadership Academy are due by June 29. Applicants must live and/or work in Wapello County. Tuition can be paid by an individual or by a sponsoring organization, typically the applicant’s place of employment.

Three scholarships are available, said Tometich. For more information or to obtain an application, visit www.ottumwaleadershipacademy.org.