Renee Schulte

Renee Schulte (born December 9, 1970) is a former American politician who was the Iowa State Representative for the 37th District. Schulte has over two decades of leadership experience in the behavioral healthcare field. Her work in the public and private sectors has given her a unique understanding of the complexities of delivering quality care.

Renee is nationally recognized for her expertise in behavioral health policy, system design, financial analysis, and strategic planning. As a licensed mental health therapist, Renee has worked across an array of the care continuum including psychiatric hospitals, child welfare providers, and therapeutic foster care services.

She began Schulte Consulting, LLC in 2012. As a consultant she has worked with multiple states creating strategic plans, legislation, and best practice guidance in regulation and rules. Renee has taught at multiple colleges and universities in the psychology department, encouraging the next generation to join in this important work.

Early life
Schulte graduated from Danville High School in Danville, Illinois. She attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where she earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in counseling and educational psychology. Renee and her husband Brent, disciple minister at Antioch Christian Church in Cedar Rapids, previously lived in New Mexico and Texas before moving to Iowa in 2001 to be closer to family.

Electoral history
Schulte narrowly won election to the Iowa House in 2008 defeating Democrat Art Staed, 8628 (49.95%) to 8615 (49.88%). A recount resulted in a net gain of one vote for Staed, leaving the election with a 13-vote margin of victory. Schulte won re-election in 2010, defeating Democratic opponent Mark Seidl. * incumbent

Awards
Schulte has received the following honors and awards:
 * 2011 Emerging Leader - State Legislative Leaders Foundation
 * 2011 Toll Fellowship
 * Voice of Children Award - Orchard Place Board of Directors
 * Iowa Farm Bureau "Friend of Agriculture"
 * Iowa Physician Assistant Society "Legislator of the Year"