On board in 1750 Beardshear

Interim university president David Spalding, who's been in the post since Jan. 3, likened his assignment to earning a spot on a relay team.

"A baton has been handed to me, and I will be handing off that baton in eight weeks, so I want to be sure we're still running at a good pace when it's handed off," he said.

"President [Wendy] Wintersteen handed over a university that's in really good shape. I'm very impressed with incoming president [David] Cook and his background, and I'm excited about what he's going to bring to the institution," Spalding said. "My goal for these two months is to support the great work our faculty and staff do and make sure we continue the positive momentum we've had under President Wintersteen's leadership."

Spalding said a primary focus will be on legislative issues once the 2026 Iowa session begins Jan. 12.

"I expect that a reasonable amount of my time during these eight weeks will be spent working with legislators to help them understand the great things that are going on here at Iowa State and help them through any questions they may have."

He said he and his wife, Marianne, will carry on the tradition of hosting the weekly President's Leadership Class at The Knoll for first-year students. That program resumes Jan. 20.

"We're looking forward to having that chance to be with students. It's what we're about at Iowa State, and it was something I really enjoyed in my 12 years as dean."

Interim first lady Marianne Spalding also will be a co-host of any university-level social gatherings. While it no longer serves as a presidential residence, the Knoll remains an asset to the university and a venue option for events in the first-floor areas, Spalding added.

Leading is an honor

"I appreciate the regents showing this confidence in me," Spalding said. "The faculty and staff here are outstanding, and it's really an honor to get the chance to lead an institution I care deeply about."

Spalding retired in June as Raisbeck Endowed Dean of the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business, a post he'd held since August 2013. Since July 2018, he also has served as vice president for economic development and industry relations. His appointment as interim president concludes March 1, Cook's scheduled first day on campus.

Spalding earned a bachelor's degree in history from Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, and an MBA from New York University's Stern School of Business.

His office is in 1750 Beardshear. He can be reached by email, interimpres@iastate.edu, or by phone at (515) 294-2042.