Donna Hoover

Scottsdale, Ariz.

Although Donna Hoover did not attend Iowa State, writes one of her nominators, “she understands that the Iowa State University experience is one that touches all aspects of life for its students and the community.”

Hoover Hall, the home of world-class facilities for students in ISU’s College of Engineering, stands as a testament to the passion that Hoover and her husband, Gary (’61 mechanical engineering), have for Iowa State, and to their generosity toward building the spectacular facility. Gary and Donna Hoover Hall is a cutting-edge facility that serves as the home of ISU’s materials science and engineering department and the Engineering Teaching and Research Complex.

In addition to everything she has done for the College of Engineering, Hoover has also distinguished herself as a spirited supporter of Cyclone athletics, giving time and resources toward the development of athletics scholarships and facilities and serving as one of ISU’s biggest fans on gameday at Jack Trice Stadium.

Hoover is a strong supporter of Triangle Fraternity, of which her son, David Berka (’99 computer engineering), was a member. He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering and computer science from ISU in 1999.

Hoover’s philanthropy and volunteerism has also extended to the university’s Catholic community. She has helped to fund the Monsignor James Supple Chair of Catholic Studies at Iowa State and currently serves as a member of the Monsignor Supple Endowment Board at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ames. She has been a church organist for 20 years.

Hoover is retired from Tenaska, Inc., a power plant construction and operation company co-founded by her husband in 1987, where she served as executive assistant. She earned a certificate from Boyles Van Sant Business College in 1960.

Hoover is a member of the Order of the Knoll President’s Circle, W.M. Beardshear and Campanile Societies, and National Cyclone Club and is a life member of the ISU Alumni Association.

Donna and Gary Hoover live in Scottsdale, Ariz., and are the parents of Debbie Sedlak, who lives in Scottsdale with her children, Brandi and Tommy; Michelle and Steve Fogle, who live in Gretna, Neb., with triplets Abby, Clair, and Cooper; and Eric and Molly Hoover, who live in Omaha, Neb. David and his wife, Amanda, live with their son, Isaac, in Ft. Collins, Colo.