Notable Alumni of Simpson College: Shaping Leaders and Innovators
Simpson College, a private Methodist college in Indianola, Iowa, has a long-standing tradition of fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing students for impactful careers. Since its establishment in 1860, the college has produced a diverse array of alumni who have distinguished themselves in various fields, from politics and academia to the arts and athletics. This article highlights some of the most notable graduates and former students of Simpson College, showcasing their contributions to society and the legacy they have built.
Honoring Distinguished Alumni: The Honor Roll of Names That Live at Simpson
Established in 1986, "The Honor Roll of the Names That Live at Simpson" recognizes alumni and former faculty members who have significantly impacted Simpson College. Every five years, the Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Board of Directors add new names to this prestigious list. To be eligible, graduates must have completed their studies before or during the class of 1975, although exceptions may be made for former students who attended Simpson but did not graduate.
Notable Alumni: A Glimpse into Their Achievements
Simpson College's alumni have made their mark across various sectors. Here are some of the most prominent figures, categorized by their respective fields:
Politics and Public Service
David Duvall Orr: A prominent figure in Illinois politics, Orr served as the Cook County Clerk from 1990 to 2018. Prior to that, he was an alderman for the 49th ward in Chicago City Council from 1979 to 1990. Notably, he briefly served as acting Mayor of Chicago in 1987 following Mayor Harold Washington's death.
Ilo Wallace: As the wife of Henry A. Wallace, the 33rd Vice President of the United States, Ilo Wallace served as the Second Lady of the United States from 1941 to 1945. She also had the honor of sponsoring the battleship USS Iowa.
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Nate Boulton: Boulton served in the Iowa Senate from 2017 to 2025, representing the 20th and 16th districts.
William E. Andrews: Andrews represented Nebraska as a Republican politician and a United States Representative.
Joel Fry: Fry has served in the Iowa House of Representatives since 2011, representing the 24th District. He holds a B.A. from Simpson College, as well as a M.S.W. and an Aging Studies Certificate from the University of Iowa School of Social Work.
Mike May: May represented the 6th District in the Iowa House of Representatives from 2005 through 2011. He received his BA from Simpson College and his MS from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Effie Boggess: Boggess was an American politician in the state of Iowa.
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William T. Thompson: Thompson was an American lawyer who served as Nebraska Attorney General and Solicitor of the United States Treasury.
Academia and Education
William Schweiker: A distinguished theological ethicist, Schweiker is the Edward L. Ryerson Distinguished Service Professor of Theological Ethics at the University of Chicago. His research spans globalization, hermeneutic philosophy, theological humanism, the history of ethics, and comparative religious ethics.
Deanna Haunsperger: Haunsperger is an accomplished mathematician and Professor of Mathematics at Carleton College. She served as the president of the Mathematical Association of America for the 2017-2018 term and co-created the Carleton College Summer Mathematics Program for Women.
Orlando Harrison Baker: Baker was a professor of ancient languages at Simpson College and the principal of Algona College. He also served as a U.S. consul in Denmark, Australia, and Borneo.
Andrew G. Reid: Reid was an American college football player, coach, and official, athletics administrator, professor of mathematics, businessman, and lawyer.
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Arts and Entertainment
John Osborn: Osborn is an American operatic tenor known for his performances in the bel canto repertoire, particularly the works of Rossini and Donizetti.
Brandon Leake: An award-winning spoken word poet, educator, and motivational speaker. He is the founder and CEO of Called To Move (CTM), an organization that empowers youth through poetry.
Athletics
- Ernest Gustav Schroeder: Schroeder served as an athletic director for the University of Iowa for 11 years and was the first wrestling and tennis coach in school history.
Simpson College: A Legacy of Excellence
Simpson College's commitment to providing a well-rounded education is reflected in the accomplishments of its alumni. The college offers over 80 areas of study for undergraduate students, as well as graduate, continuing, and online education options. Its 85-acre campus in Indianola provides a picturesque setting for academic pursuits and personal growth.
The college's athletic teams, known as the Storm, compete in the American Rivers Conference in NCAA Division III. Simpson fields men's teams in baseball, basketball, cross country, American football, golf, gymnastics, soccer, tennis, track and field, and wrestling. Women's teams include basketball, cross country, golf, gymnastics, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, and volleyball. The Simpson College softball team won the NCAA Division III National Championship in 1997 and 1999.
Simpson College also fosters a vibrant campus community through various programs and organizations. The Culver Center, established in 2010, provides scholarships to students committed to public service and civic engagement. The Simpsonian is the student newspaper, and Sequel is an annual literary arts magazine featuring student and faculty contributions. Simpson for Seniors offers interactive, lifelong learning courses for adults of all ages.
Giving Back and Engaging with the Community
Simpson College encourages its alumni to stay connected and contribute to the institution's ongoing success. Alumni can give back through volunteering, philanthropy, and sharing their expertise with current students. The annual homecoming celebration provides an opportunity for alumni to reconnect with former classmates and celebrate their shared experiences.
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