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Celebrations for David Spalding

David-shaking-hands-in-the-reception-line

Exceptional leadership

“David has been an exceptional leader of both the Ivy College of Business and our economic development programs. His work has made a profound difference for our students, faculty and staff.”

— President Wendy Wintersteen, Iowa State University

Friends and colleagues say farewell to the longest serving dean

Several events were held in April and May to honor the 12 years of service during which David Spalding served as the Raisbeck Endowed Dean of the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business.

The longest serving business dean in Iowa State University history, Spalding will retire at the end of June, after taking the college to new heights and record achievements. He was hired in 2013 after serving eight years at Dartmouth College. Before entering higher education, Spalding had a 29-year career in finance in New York, New York. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth and his MBA from New York University. His experiences on Wall Street are a common topic of discussion when meeting with students and families.

You can read more about Spalding’s history and accomplishments in the latest issue of Ivy magazine.

Students, faculty, staff, colleagues, family, and friends were invited to the following farewell events.

Farewell-hug-from-President-Wendy-Wintersteen

University-wide reception

April 17

University leaders, donors, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends attended a university-wide reception in the Gerdin Business Building. Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen, Dean’s Advisory Council Chair Dan Houston, and Iowa State Provost Jason Keith all shared remarks, often bringing the crowd to laughter. Spalding was surprised with a special farewell video from Ivy alumnus and NBA star Georges Niang (’16 marketing) and a special performance by members of the Iowa State marching band.

Final-donut recipient

Final Donuts with the Dean

April 29

Spalding created the tradition of serving donuts at the beginning of each semester as a way to welcome students and make connections. Held in the Granite Hallway, students were invited to stop by on their way to class, grab a donut and coffee, and chat with the dean. During his tenure, 12,638 donuts have been served. Kellan Kankel, a freshman majoring in marketing from Lakeville, Minnesota, received the last Donut with the Dean.

David-at-pizza-party

College pizza party

May 1

A casual pizza party for students, faculty, and staff was held in the Kingland Hub. It was easy to personalize the event for Spalding. A Taylor Swift fan, Spalding enjoyed the “We are Ivy” friendship bracelets. Some of his favorite music was played during the event. The pizza party menu had three of his favorites: Jeff’s Pizza, chocolate chip cookies, and Diet Coke. Attendees were also excited that Cy was in attendance.

A special fundraiser was held in advance. Knowing Spalding has been a strong supporter of the United Way of Story County, members of the Ivy faculty and staff raised more than $7,000 in Spalding’s name, a moving gesture he said he was grateful for.

Even though Spalding is retiring as dean, he will continue to serve as vice president of Economic Development and Industry Relations and have his office in the Iowa State Research Park.

David Spalding speaking to audience.

A Fond Farewell

You are invited to share your well wishes with David on this Kudoboard.

June 9, 2025

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