As we begin 2025, Ellipsis is entering a new chapter of growth and opportunity. After more than three years of transformative leadership as CEO and three decades of working in youth services, Chris Koepplin has announced her plan to transition out of the organization later this year.

Under Chris’s leadership, Ellipsis was born through the merger of Youth Emergency Services and Shelter (YESS) and Youth Homes of Mid-America in 2021. This integration has allowed us to provide a seamless continuum of care for kids and families in central Iowa, ensuring better outcomes and brighter futures for those we serve.

During her tenure, Chris championed new initiatives, including creating a seamless, more integrated continuum of care; establishing new programs to provide more spaces for kids — especially girls; setting an innovative and high standard for more inspiring residential spaces that better serve youth; and advocating for increased funding with an integrated voice.

“At Ellipsis, our priority has aways been to help kids and families determine their next chapter as they move into successful futures. Since I pursued my MBA in 2023, I’ve spent time reflecting on my own next chapter,” said Chris. “I’m happy to look back at all we and the community have accomplished together since I began my career with this organization three decades ago, starting when it was Youth Homes of Mid-America. I’m so proud of the work that has been done to positively impact the lives of thousands of kids and families and provide them with a much-needed support network.”

The Ellipsis Board of Directors has begun the search for our next CEO, a visionary leader who shares our passion for youth and family services.

“Chris couples incredible business acumen with knowledge of the complex needs in the youth services industry,” said Mick Lovell, board vice president. “She united kids and families, staff from two organizations, community leaders, and supporters all around the mission of connecting kids and families to successful futures. The board is happy for her next chapter, and we are confident we’ll identify a leader in our youth services industry who will continue to put kids and families first while ensuring the success of the organization.”

Chris will continue in her role as CEO of Ellipsis as the board and its search committee seek out the next leader for the organization. She will not only be part of that search and transition, but she will also continue to manage the organization on a day-to-day basis alongside her executive leadership team.

“Ellipsis has a strong foundation and a bright future. It’s been an honor to lead this organization and work alongside such dedicated staff, partners and supporters. I’m excited to see the next chapter unfold as the new leader builds on our mission of connecting what is to what’s possible.”

Chris Koepplin, Ellipsis CEO

To learn more about the CEO position, visit https://ellipsisiowa.org/about/careers/.  

We thank Chris for her incredible service to Ellipsis and look forward to continuing our mission of creating hope and opportunity for the kids and families we serve.