I’m Sharon Blanchard, proud to serve as the 2025–2026 President of IBEA.  By day, I’m a faculty member at Kirkwood Community College, where I teach and coordinate an A.A.S. program that prepares students for success in business and leadership.  My passion lies in helping students bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, because that’s where transformation happens.

As IBEA President, my goal is to strengthen connections among educators and industry leaders so we can bring the most relevant, practical insights back to our classrooms. I believe that when we share ideas and collaborate, we empower students to thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Outside of work, I’m deeply involved in my community.  I volunteer as a youth basketball coach, lead Junior Achievement activities in local classrooms, and serve in leadership roles at my church.  These experiences keep me grounded and remind me why education matters.  It’s about shaping lives, not just careers.

Thank you for visiting our site and for being part of this incredible network of educators.  Together, we’re building bridges that connect learning with opportunity. I’m excited for what this year holds and look forward to working alongside you to inspire Iowa’s future business leaders.