Zach Johnson Foundation Names Stephanie Stulken Director
Stulken will succeed Eric Christenson as executive director when he retires at the end of 2026.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in People
The Zach Johnson Foundation has named Stephanie Stulken, its current development director, as its next executive director. Stulken will take over from Eric Christenson, who retires at the end of 2026, effective January 1, 2027.
Why it matters
The leadership transition sets a clear successor for the foundation that supports Cedar Rapids-area students and families through its Kids on Course program. Stulken's experience in fundraising, donor relationships and long-term priorities will shape the organization's direction.
Christenson, who joined the foundation in July 2023, brings more than 30 years of education and leadership experience and previously oversaw 20 schools as executive director of elementary education for the Cedar Rapids Community School District. The announcement does not address how the development director position will be filled.
The players
Zach Johnson Foundation
A Cedar Rapids-based nonprofit established by professional golfer Zach Johnson to support local students and families.
Stephanie Stulken
The foundation's development director, who will become its executive director after building experience in fundraising and donor relationships.
Eric Christenson
The foundation's executive director since joining in July 2023, with a prior career overseeing schools for the Cedar Rapids Community School District.
The details
Stulken has worked on fundraising, donor relationships and the foundation's long-term priorities as development director. The foundation was established by professional golfer Zach Johnson and supports students and families in the Cedar Rapids area through Kids on Course, which provides academic support, enrichment opportunities, family engagement and other resources.
Timeline
July 2023: Christenson joins the Zach Johnson Foundation.
End of 2026: Christenson retires as executive director.
January 1, 2027: Stulken becomes executive director.
Leadership Pipeline
The move follows a common pattern for nonprofits in the Cedar Rapids Community School District orbit, where education administrators carry their experience into community organizations. Christenson's shift from overseeing 20 district schools to leading the Zach Johnson Foundation illustrates how public education leadership and local philanthropy overlap.
Families and students who rely on Kids on Course should see continuity in services as Stulken takes over. The foundation's programming and donor-supported offerings are expected to continue under new leadership.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions at community nonprofits often hinge on internal succession, and this one moves a longtime development leader into the top role. Watching how the foundation handles its development director vacancy will show how the organization plans to sustain its fundraising base.
What happens next
Stulken becomes executive director effective January 1, 2027, after Christenson retires at the end of 2026.
Further reading
Explore more People coverage for other leadership changes in the region.
