Iowa State Penitentiary Warden Resigning Effective Today

Rumors of administrative leave precede Foreman's departure after less than a year as warden.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Unofficial reports indicate that Mark Foreman, the warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary, will be resigning from his post effective today. Rumors have been circulating since February 3rd that Foreman had been placed on administrative leave, though the Iowa Department of Corrections has yet to comment. Foreman was appointed as warden back in May, and an internal email obtained by Pen City Current states that Mitchellville Warden Margaret Waddle will be assisting through the leadership transition.

Why it matters

The resignation of a state prison warden is a significant event, as wardens play a crucial role in the management and oversight of correctional facilities. Foreman's departure after less than a year in the position raises questions about the reasons behind his resignation and the stability of the Iowa Department of Corrections' leadership.

The details

According to the Pen City Current report, rumors of Foreman's administrative leave have been circulating since February 3rd, though the Iowa Department of Corrections has not provided any official comment. Foreman was appointed as warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary in May of the previous year, after more than 30 years of experience in corrections in other states and with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. An internal email obtained by Pen City Current indicates that Mitchellville Warden Margaret Waddle will be assisting with the leadership transition at the Iowa State Penitentiary following Foreman's resignation.

  • Foreman was appointed as warden in May of the previous year.
  • Rumors of Foreman's administrative leave have been circulating since February 3rd.
  • Foreman's last day as warden is Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Mark Foreman

The former warden of the Iowa State Penitentiary, who is resigning from his post effective today.

Margaret Waddle

The warden of the Mitchellville Correctional Facility, who will be assisting with the leadership transition at the Iowa State Penitentiary following Foreman's resignation.

Beth Skinner

The Director of the Iowa Department of Corrections, who sent an internal email to ISP staff indicating Foreman's last day and Waddle's involvement in the transition.

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What they’re saying

“An internal email was obtained by Pen City Current Thursday morning written by DOC Director Beth Skinner to ISP staff indicating Foreman's last day is Friday and that Mitchellville Warden Margaret Waddle will be assisting through the leadership transition.”

— Beth Skinner, Director, Iowa Department of Corrections (Pen City Current)

What’s next

The Iowa Department of Corrections has not yet commented on the reasons behind Foreman's resignation or the timeline for appointing a new warden at the Iowa State Penitentiary.

The takeaway

The resignation of the Iowa State Penitentiary warden after less than a year in the position raises concerns about the stability and leadership of the state's correctional system. The involvement of the Mitchellville warden in the transition process suggests the Department of Corrections is working to ensure a smooth handover, but the lack of official comment leaves unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding Foreman's departure.