The YMCA of Greater Des Moines has landed a new high-profile administrator, naming former Democratic Governor Chet Culver as its new president.
Culver will oversee fundraising as the Y strives to complete delayed capital projects, including an Olympic-size swimming pool at the downtown branch.
Culver says he’s long been interested in athletics and wellness.
Officials at the Y say his contacts in the community will be invaluable.
Culver raised millions of dollars when he was in politics, including $20 million during his years running for and serving as governor. He says that will help in his new job.
“I’ve had a very good track record of raising money, making contacts, and networking across the country,” Culver says. “And I've set records along the way.”
The presidency is the number two spot at the organization behind the CEO position. Officials say the new position was created with Chet Culver in mind.
Culver has been leading his own energy industry consulting company. He’s periodically named as a possible Democratic candidate for Congress.
Culver says that won’t happen anytime soon.
“I’m definitely ruling it out for now,” Culver says. “I couldn't be more excited about this next chapter.”
Culver says unlike in politics the new job will enable him to be present for his teenagers Clare and Jack.
Iowans will remember them as the children who once lived at Terrace Hill.
Officials at the Y wouldn’t specify fundraising goals for Culver, except to say they would be aggressive.