Donald H. Jordahl

BS Ag Education ’58
West Des Moines, Iowa

Cy’s Barnyard Bash has become an annual event that alumni in the Polk County, Iowa, area--as well as ISU president Gregory Geoffroy--list among their favorite ISU gatherings. It’s an event that wouldn’t be possible without its gracious and generous host, Don Jordahl, who donates his immaculate acreage in southwest Des Moines for food, fun, and friendship each summer. Through his willingness to host this networking event at his home, Jordahl is sharing in a very personal way his wholehearted support for all things ISU.

“Ask Don about ISU, and his eyes light up,” one nominator said of Jordahl, who has maintained extensive connections to the university through the ISU Alumni Association Board of Directors, including its Finance Committee; the ISU Foundation’s Investment Committee; the ISU Athletic Council; Order of the Knoll; Alliance for ISU; National Cyclone Club; and the Greater Des Moines Cyclone Club; among others. His true passion for his alma mater is evident in the myriad ways he chooses to give.

A career banker, Jordahl founded Iowa Banking Magazine in 1992 after successful stints with Brenton Banks (now Wells Fargo) and Bankers Trust Company. Today, he is president and publisher of the magazine, which is held in high regard by commercial banking executives across the state. In addition to his support of Iowa State, Jordahl is a contributor to the Iowa 4-H Foundation and has long been active with St. John’s Lutheran Church and the YMCA President’s Club, which provides the financial support for the “Partner with Youth” program. A proud Adelante Fraternity member, Jordahl is the former chair of the organization’s alumni association.

Jordahl is a lifetime member of the ISU Alumni Association and a member of the Order of the Knoll.