For the second consecutive year, an Ivy College of Business student has received a Wallace E. Barron All-University Senior Award. Jonathan Nevenhoven, a senior in accounting and business analytics from Waukee, Iowa, is one of seven students selected from an exclusive group of just 24 nominated Iowa State University seniors.
Since 1968, the Iowa State University Alumni Association has presented the Wallace E. Barron Award, recognizing outstanding seniors who display high character, outstanding achievement in academics and university/community activities, and strong potential for continuing these exemplary qualities as alumni.
Nominated by Kathy Wieland, former director of Ivy’s undergraduate Business Career Services department, Nevenhoven was a “no-brainer” candidate for the award.
“Jonathan is an exceptional campus leader involved extensively in leadership roles in a variety of organizations,” said Wieland. “In the 20-plus years I worked with students at Iowa State, I cannot recall a student in the Ivy College of Business who has been more involved and at such an outstanding level.”
As a double-major Honors Program student with two additional studies (a leadership certificate and a minor in German), Nevenhoven has maintained a high GPA as a consistent dean’s list student. His academic output is especially impressive due to his expansive list of current and past involvements.
- Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) – national VP of operations.
- Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State of Iowa – president.
- Iowa State University Foundation – accounting student assistant.
- Ivy Business Learning Teams – lead peer mentor.
- Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity – treasurer.
- Student Government – Ivy College of Business senator.
- Phi Sigma Pi Honor Fraternity – chapter president.
- Delta Sigma Pi Professional Business Fraternity – VP of chapter relations.
- Gerdin Leaders Academy – student leader.
- First-Year Council – VP and director of campus relations.
- Honors Program.
- Order of Omega Greek Honor Society.
- Gamma Sigma Alpha Greek Honor Society.
- Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society.
- Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.
- Kairos Student Ministry.
- National Residency Hall Honorary.
- Martin Hall Starbuck House Council.
Through his vast array of involvement, Nevenhoven has left a widespread and lasting impact on the community. His leadership growth has helped make him easily recognizable as a high-character student.
“Jonathan has been showing leadership potential and making a difference since high school and likely even prior,” continued Wieland. “The style in which Jonathan displays leadership is warm, welcoming, and present.”
Stemming from the impact he’s created and the multi-faceted success he’s found during his time at Iowa State, Nevenhoven has accumulated a history of achievement.
“During my time at Iowa State, I’ve had many opportunities to grow, lead, and give back to the community through student organizations, community service, and campus work. Each experience and connection I’ve made has shaped me in ways I never imagined.”
— Jonathan Nevenhoven
Most recently, he received the Silver Presidential Volunteer Service Award for his completion of more than 250 service hours in 2024. Nevenhoven is also a past recipient of the Ronald Reagan Leadership Medal, American Citizenship Award, Warren P. Poslusny Award, Outstanding Student in Business Education Award, and more, further solidifying his impressive track record of earned recognition and affirming his merit.
Nevenhoven was honored and presented the Wallace E. Barron Award (a custom-made, 10K solid gold ring) during a ceremony at the ISU Alumni Center on Wednesday, April 23. Lunch was provided, and a presentation was held featuring the following members of the ISU Alumni Association:
- Kurt Tjaden – acting president and CEO.
- Shellie Andersen – assistant director for membership and marketing.
- Jordan Heagle – manager of outreach and events.
- Katie Lickteig – constituent engagement.
“I am incredibly honored to have been nominated and selected to receive the Wallace E. Barron Award,” said Nevenhoven. “During my time at Iowa State, I’ve had many opportunities to grow, lead, and give back to the community through student organizations, community service, and campus work. Each experience and connection I’ve made has shaped me in ways I never imagined. I’m very thankful for the mentors, peers, faculty, and fellow leaders who’ve supported me along the way. Iowa State has truly become my home, and I’m excited to carry the Cyclone spirit with me into the future!”
Following the completion of his undergraduate studies, Nevenhoven will continue his education through Iowa State’s master of accounting program, which he anticipates completing in 2027. With his sights set on attaining a CPA license, Nevenhoven is looking to become a corporate auditor or a similar professional in the accounting industry.
“Ultimately, later in life, I hope to return to Iowa State to teach and give back to the community that helped me get to where I am today.”
To connect with Jonathan Nevenhoven or follow his collegiate and professional journey, visit his LinkedIn profile.
