Andrew S. Allen 2008

Just a little over a decade after receiving treatment for alcohol and drug abuse, former at-risk teen Andrew Allen was named one of the Des Moines Business Record’s “40 Under 40” business leaders. It capped a dramatic turnaround in the life of a young leader who has become an inspiration and advocate for others.

Currently managing the charitable giving program within the Principal Financial Group’s community outreach division in Des Moines, Iowa, Allen chaired the corporation’s 2005-2006 United Way campaign that saw 25 percent growth in participation and received the Spirit of America Award, the highest honor given to large corporations by the United Way of America.

A 2008 State of Iowa Governor’s Volunteer Award recipient, Allen spent nearly 10 years on the board of Youth & Shelter Services, the organization which helped him as a teen. He received YSS’s Leadership Award in 2007 and the Youth Advocacy Leadership honor in 1999. As chair of the Iowa Homeless Youth Centers board, he spearheaded the fundraiser “Reggie’s Sleepout,” which raised more than $140,000 in just its second year. He also recently joined the state’s Juvenile Justice Advisory Council and Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute.

Allen and his wife, Hollie ’02, are the parents of three children: Ashton, Darcy, and Drew. The Allens are ISU Alumni Association annual members.