Donna Loewen
Education Coordinator“Imagine how different the world would be if we were all more ‘other-centered’ than ‘self-centered!’”
A former school principal, Donna has a unique insight into how education changes lives. Her experiences in the realm of education culminate in her work at the Foundation: From her early love of learning, to support that prompted her to attend college as a "first gen" student, to serving schools for over 42 years.
Donna joined the Community Foundation in 2018 to convene a cross-sector leadership team of partners to support efforts to increase high school graduates' enrollment in postsecondary education or training, work to address challenges faced by low-income, minority and first-generation college students, and enhance overall career and college readiness in Dubuque. She transitioned to leading Foundation's dyslexia tutor program in 2024 and trained to become a tutor herself.
She says the best part of her job is partnering with others to make a difference for our youth -- the future leaders and servants of our world! Donna remains a lifelong learner committed to helping youth realize their potential and supporting their success, just as a past mentor did for her. A Johann von Goethe quote inspires her: "Nothing is worth more than this day." It reminds her of the daily opportunity to help someone, learn something new, and affirm or enrich another person's experience.
The third of seven siblings, Donna enjoys hiking in nature, puzzles and word games, and reading and writing cards, letters and poetry. She is married to Roger, a retired firefighter. Their daughter, Bea, lives and works in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Fun Fact
Q. If a theme song could be played every time you walk into a room, what would it be?
A. "Let's Work Together" by Canned Heat captures the spirit of my life's purpose. I like its inclusive reference to "every boy, girl, woman and man" and "together we stand, divided we fall." It alludes to how we must apply effort to overcome challenges.
