Ann and Russell Gerdin

North Liberty, Iowa

Russ and Ann Gerdin may be natives of Minnesota, but they’ve made a mark on Iowa education. The couple believes strongly in supporting higher education and has given generously of their time, energy, and financial contributions for many educational projects in Iowa, especially at Iowa State University. ISU College of Business Dean Labh Hira writes, “Many people talk about noble causes, but very few take action to truly make a difference. Russ and Ann were instrumental in driving a $35 million initiative for the college.” The Gerdins provided the lead gift for the new $25 million Gerdin College of Business Building, which was dedicated in February 2004.

Russ is CEO of Heartland Express, a trucking company in Coralville, Iowa. Heartland has been named one of the top 200 best small companies in America in Forbes magazine 12 out of the last 17 years. The Heartland Education Fund provides tuition and board for children of Heartland Express employees who have been with the company more than 10 years.

The Gerdins are members of the Order of the Knoll, and Russ serves on the College of Business Advisory Board.