Cornell Atwater recently was named executive director of the Issaquah Schools Foundation.

Cornell brings strategic, operational and organizational development experience at a time of rapidly changing landscape for education.

The Foundation strives to meet the educational funding gap for all students in every school within the Issaquah School District.

“I am thrilled to continue working closely and in collaboration with Ron Thiele and the Issaquah School District, the Issaquah School Board, PTSA, businesses and our community partners to provide our students with an exceptional educational experience, ” Atwater said in a press release. “We have a changing demographic in our area, and we need to be sensitive, responsive and agile to support our student needs and prepare them to be future ready.”

Atwater has been serving as acting executive director and for the past three years on the board of trustees as vice chair of resource development.

“I’ve gained valuable insight to the innerworkings of the Foundation and witnessed firsthand the countless hours of work and energy the Foundation staff, volunteers and board puts forth in serving students, parents, staff and the entire Issaquah School District community,” she said. “I am ready to lead the Foundation and will continue to strive to make a difference for our community.”

During the past 20 years, Atwater has held leadership and board positions for several for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

“Cornell’s leadership is steering the Foundation to the next level,” said Sara Miller, Issaquah Schools Foundation Board co-president. “We are so thrilled to have her in this position. Her ability to lead and motivate both staff and volunteers is amazing. Cornell’s background in education and coaching students and families, along with her connections in the community, have perfectly positioned her for this role. We are excited to see the impact she makes to help all of the students in the district.”