I have lived in Iowa City for a number of years after graduating from the University of Iowa College of Nursing. Professionally, I have dedicated my career to the nursing profession with more than 55 years of service as a practitioner, faculty member, author, and administrator. As a community volunteer, I have actively served the community in leadership positions with deep passion, focusing on getting things done for the people in this community, especially women and girls.

I must say, though—this opportunity as the Women Build honoree far exceeds my wildest dreams. I will be assisting the Women Build Committee of Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity and staff to build a house for a practicing nurse, a single mom working nights to support her three children.

Over my teaching years, I have graded a vast number of papers, spent many hours in patient-care settings overseeing students, and taken on other associated responsibilities. But this is truly the icing on the cake!

I hope you will consider joining me in securing a house for this family to make into their home by the end of this year. My goal is to raise $75,000 to help cover a portion of the building costs of the Liz Swanson Home. But personally, I would love to dramatically exceed $75,000!

Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity construction staff and skilled construction volunteers will host a workshop for those interested in volunteering to build Habitat homes.

These beginner-level classes will cover tool identification, construction terminology, site safety, and more. Attendees must be 18 or older.

Come out for a unique view of Kinnick Stadium, heavy appetizers, a silent auction, a live auction hosted by Brent Wears of Wears Auctioneering, and more—all to support affordable housing solutions in our community!

Proceeds from Hammers and Hardhats support the Liz Swanson Women Build.

Liz Swanson has spent her life strengthening communities through her leadership in nursing, commitment to education, and service across local and statewide organizations.

Liz has supported Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity for decades and joined the Women Build committee in 2023, quickly becoming a reliable and engaged leader. She builds meaningful connections with families, volunteers, and staff with quiet consistency and care.

Help us celebrate the 2026 Women Build family by decorating their homes foundation.

Everyone can participate in this fun and meaningful way to put some love into a Habitat home. Decorate a stud! A stud, or 2x4, is a board used to frame a home's walls. You pick up a stud from our office, decorate it at your place on your own time, and return it so it can be nailed together to build the walls of the Liz Swanson Women Build home.

For more information or to reserve studs, contact sammi@iowavalleyhabitat.org. You will arrange a time to pick up your stud at the Habitat office and return it by Thursday, August 6.

Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity            2401 Scott Blvd. SE                                Iowa City, IA 52240                                 (319) 337-8949