Billi Hunt Named Iowa State Vice President for External Relations

Billi Hunt, a veteran executive in government affairs and economic development, has been appointed as Iowa State University’s vice president for external relations, according to announcements from the university and the Business Record. Hunt, who currently leads the public-private partnership America’s Cultivation Corridor, is scheduled to assume the new position on Oct. 12, pending final approval from the Iowa Board of Regents.

The appointment comes as part of a strategic restructuring of the office of the president at Iowa State, aimed at enhancing the university’s alignment with its core priorities. In her new role, Hunt will serve on President David Cook’s senior leadership team and oversee a broad portfolio including government relations, community engagement, strategic partnerships, and university marketing and communications.

Professional Background and Transition

Hunt brings over 25 years of experience in strategic partnerships and organizational management to the university. Since 2018, she has served as the executive director of America’s Cultivation Corridor, where she focused on advancing innovation in agriculture and biosciences across Iowa. Prior to that role, she spent two decades at DuPont, where she managed government affairs and developed coalitions involving higher education institutions, businesses, and government organizations, Business Record reported.

An Iowa State alumna, Hunt holds a bachelor’s degree from the university and a master’s degree in public administration from Drake University. Reflecting on her return to her alma mater, Hunt stated that the university’s land-grant mission holds personal significance for her. The education I received was the launching pad for my career, Hunt said in an article published by Inside Iowa State. I’m excited to work with such talented people to champion the land-grant story.

Strategic Realignment at Iowa State

The vice president for external relations role is a newly defined position within the president’s office. According to university leadership, the creation of this role is intended to better support institutional objectives and unify the university’s external messaging. President David Cook, who began his tenure as the university’s 17th president on March 1, noted that Hunt’s appointment is intended to strengthen the university’s engagement with external partners.

Billi brings extensive experience building relationships across government, industry and higher education, along with a genuine passion for Iowa State University. She is a collaborative, strategic leader who will strengthen how we engage with our partners to elevate Iowa State’s impact.

David Cook, Iowa State University President

The search process for the position was co-chaired by senior vice president and provost Jason Keith and the director of the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication, Tracy Lucht. Hunt will receive an annual salary of $300,000 in her new capacity.

Pending Regulatory Approval

While the university has announced the selection of Hunt for the position, the appointment remains subject to a formal vote by the Iowa Board of Regents. As of the university’s announcement, the timeline for this confirmation vote has not been disclosed, though the university expects her to begin her duties on Oct. 12.