Sarah Zeidler
Executive director, oncology services, UnityPoint Health - John Stoddard Cancer Center
Age: 39
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Wisconsin–Madison; Master of Healthcare Administration, University of Minnesota
Husband: Hayden Zeidler
Children: Oliver (8), Addison (5)
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Tell us four of your proudest accomplishments or accolades.
I have served as executive director of UnityPoint Health – John Stoddard Cancer Center for more than 11 years, leading the development of multiple new programs and services.
I serve on the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus Advisory Board.
I have been an elected member of the Iowa Cancer Consortium Board since 2021.
I am a member of the American Heart Association Central Iowa Board.
What’s an experience or memory that influenced how you saw the world or what you wanted to do in life?
Working at Culver’s in high school, I was led by a young female manager who modeled inclusive, respectful leadership every day — treating employees and customers from all backgrounds with dignity — which shaped the kind of leader I strive to be.
What’s one decision you made early in your career that had an outsized impact?
I took a risk on an internship in Des Moines, a city I’d never even visited, and was drawn to UnityPoint Health’s culture — opening the door to long-term mentorship and career growth that shaped my professional path.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Personally, I aspire to raise children who are kind and confident in being unconditionally loved. Professionally, I aim to keep advancing community health through exceptional care, disease prevention and strengthening social well-being.
What are you still working on to improve as a leader?
As a servant leader, I continually work to better understand what motivates each individual on my team so I can support and recognize them in ways that are truly meaningful and personalized.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
Intentionally observe the leadership styles around you — note what inspires you and what doesn’t — and use those insights to shape the kind of leader you want to become.
What’s one regular habit that’s made you successful?
Weekly meal planning and grocery ordering has simplified family logistics, reduced stress and brought predictability to busy evenings — freeing up mental space for both work and family priorities.
What’s one outdated way of thinking that you’d like to challenge?
That asking questions signals weakness — when in reality, thoughtful questions and active listening build credibility, trust and better outcomes.
What is one issue you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
I’d like leaders to focus on homelessness, housing insecurity and food insecurity. Without stable housing or access to food, individuals cannot prioritize health, employment or education. Addressing these fundamental needs is essential to the overall well-being of our community.
What’s one fun fact about you?
I've traveled abroad three times for service trips.
Hobbies: Traveling, baking sourdough and gardening.
What is one word that best describes you?
Grounded.
What’s one food you think people must try in the Des Moines area?
Waveland’s Best Skillet at Waveland Café.
What’s the funniest or most surprising thing that’s happened to you recently?
My kids keep me humble and regularly make me laugh — when I told my daughter I was surprised she remembered something I didn’t, she replied, “That’s because my brain is young.”
What’s your favorite tradition to participate in locally?
Saturday mornings at the Downtown Farmers’ Market.
What is your go-to snack?
Sour gummy worms.