Jeff Johnson announces his retirement

Editor's note: Jeff Johnson, who took a temporary medical leave of absence in March, on July 14 shared his decision to retire from his position as Lora and Russ Talbot Endowed President and chief executive officer of the ISU Alumni Association, effective Sept. 1. Here is the message he shared with colleagues and ISU alumni.

After 26 incredible years with the Iowa State University Alumni Association, I'm writing to share that I will be retiring from my role as the ISUAA Lora and Russ Talbot Endowed President and CEO, effective Sept. 1.

This decision comes after a period of reflection that started in March when I began my medical leave after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. I've received so much support and outreach during that time; one colleague, Shellie Andersen, encouraged me with the scripture Jeremiah 29:11, which tells us: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future." I've meditated on this scripture and praised God for the career I've had in higher education over the past 43 years.

While this is a bittersweet decision for me and my family, my heart is at peace. Cyclones everywhere have been supportive of our collective efforts from day one when we arrived at Iowa State University. You've allowed me to be myself. You've given me space to grow professionally, personally and positively. You've embraced the building of the ISU Alumni Center thanks to the generous and unselfish support of the late Roy Reiman and his bride Bobbi Reiman, and so many other committed donors. You were part of onboarding the new tradition of the Cyclone Power chant. You were supportive of endowing the nation's first alumni association leadership position thanks to Lora and Russ Talbot. You participated in Cyclone Central Step Shows with the Iowa State University Cyclone Football "Varsity" Marching Band. You supported the association's efforts as donors, volunteers, advocates, partners and event and program participants that showcased your loyalty, pride and belief in Iowa State University and your association.

Peggy and I will remain in Ames as proud Iowans, devoted Cyclones and grateful members of this community. We look forward to spending as much time doting on our grandkids as their parents will allow while giving needed attention to staying as healthy, active and engaged as I/we can.

My email address will remain jjohnsn@iastate.edu; please stay in touch. Peggy and I consider you our extended family, and as such, we look forward to having the opportunity to seeing many of you in September. The board has requested that I ask you to save the date for a community open house on Sept. 5, as well as game-day honors on Sept. 6 which will include my involvement in the Step Show Celebration and on-field recognition during the Iowa State vs. Iowa football game.

More details will be made available closer to the celebrations via the Iowa Stater email newsletter, on the ISUAA website and on social media. Please send any association business or program-related inquiries from this point forward to Shannon Foote, ISUAA Lora and Russ Talbot Acting President and CEO, at sfoote@iastate.edu.

Thanks again for the 26 years of working together to extend and elevate the excellence of Iowa State University and Iowa Staters everywhere!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Jeffery Johnson, PhD '14
Lora and Russ Talbot Endowed President and CEO
Iowa State University Alumni Association