Emily Westergaard is the CEO of the By Degrees Foundation and brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. She’s known for launching forward-thinking programs, building strong partnerships, and rallying community support around education and opportunity. Her approach to fundraising is grounded in collaboration with nonprofits, public agencies, and local leaders.
A longtime Des Moines resident, Emily holds a Master of Public Administration from Drake University and a bachelor’s degree in International Development from Grinnell College. She has served on multiple boards, including two years as Chair of the Broadlawns Foundation, giving her valuable insight into the organization’s mission and impact.
Emily was appointed to the Broadlawns Board of Trustees on June 17, 2025, to serve the remainder of an unexpired term ending December 2026.