Jerre Stead (BBA ’65) is a globally recognized business leader, and, with his wife, Mary Joy, among the university's most influential champions.

Jerre led 10 public companies as CEO and chairman, including Clarivate and IHS Markit, delivering exceptional long-term shareholder returns while serving on dozens of corporate and nonprofit boards. Today, he serves as chair of Stead Impact Ventures and the Stead Foundation, investing in innovations that improve brain health while advancing philanthropy that makes measurable, lasting change.

Jerre and Mary Joy’s commitment to improving the lives of others is perhaps best reflected through University of Iowa Health Care, including University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital and Stead Family Department of Pediatrics.

Laura VandeBerg has served as host of Hawkeye Sports for the past decade, engaging fans across football, men's and women's basketball, wrestling, and other University of Iowa athletic events.

 Throughout her tenure, Laura has hosted upward of 500 events and counting. She is also the co-host of the “Talkin’ Hawks” podcast alongside her husband, Matt VandeBerg. 

In addition to her media work with Iowa sports, Laura is a speaker, emcee, and content creator known for her energetic presence, relatability, and ability to connect with audiences of all sizes. 

She lives in Solon, Iowa with her husband and three children.