DMPS Names Lilia Alvarado New Human Resources Chief

Lilia Alvarado brings nearly 20 years of HR experience to her role at DMPS.

Des Moines Public Schools is pleased to announce that Lilia Alvarado is the new Chief Human Resources Officer for the school district.

“It’s my pleasure to welcome Lilia Alvarado to DMPS and a role that means a great deal to our most important asset: people,” said Dr. Thomas Ahart, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools. “As one of Iowa’s largest employers, some of our most important work outside of the classroom is to attract, engage, retain and develop great talent. Lilia will be a key leader in the success of that on-going work.”

“What an amazing time to dream big and continue building on an incredible legacy of education and innovation,” said Alvarado. “I look forward to this experience with much enthusiasm.”

“I started my educational journey in Iowa back in 1993 as an international student,” added Alvarado. “I feel so blessed to have an opportunity to contribute to the very system that empowered me to dream big and achieve beyond my limits.”

Bringing nearly two decades of human resources experience in the private sector to DMPS, Alvarado was most recently with ADP, Inc., a global human capital systems management firm. She has also held human resource positions with Pharmacists Mutual Insurance, Maschoff LLC, Boomerang Tube, Control Devices, The Solae Company, and Tyson Foods.

Alvarado earned a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas, a bachelor’s degree from Briar Cliff University, and an associate degree from Iowa Lakes Community College.

Alvarado fills a position most recently held by Dr. Anne Sullivan, who joined DMPS in 2013. She stepped down in 2018 and passed away last month. DMPS is grateful for the dedicated service Dr. Sullivan brought to the school district.