The College of Design at Iowa State University established its first Dean’s Advancement Council in 1983. The first council helped initiate the college’s alumni relations activities and fundraising strategies. Since then, the council has evolved into an essential advisory group composed of industry, government, academic, and professional leaders who are actively engaged in advancing the college.

The current council advises the dean about strengthening the college’s learning, research, and outreach programs; expanding its base of support; and serving its alumni. Each of the seven departments in the College of Design has its own advisory council of professionals who consistently provide valuable insights into their areas of expertise.

  • Advise the dean on current trends in professional practice and social issues and provide perspectives on the college’s priorities, key initiatives and strategies, impact, and challenges
  • Serve as volunteers, advocates, and ambassadors for the College of Design and Iowa State University
  • Participate in the college’s philanthropic efforts, including making personal commitments within their personal means to college priorities
  • Participate in the fundraising process by helping to identify alumni and friends to support the college; hosting events for alumni; and opening doors and building relationships on behalf of the College of Design

Dean’s Advancement Council members

Jim Cramer

2020–present
College of Design Honorary Alumnus

Former CEO of American Institute of Architects, Founder of DesignIntelligence & Design Futures Council

Dan Culhane

2020–present
BS 1993 Community & Regional Planning

President & CEO, Ames Chamber of Commerce

Dennis Forsyth

BArch 1971 Architecture

Retired Consulting Principal, SRG Partnership


Steve Foutch

2020–present
BA 1988 Architecture

Co-Founder & CEO, Foutch Brothers, LLC

Chuck Grasser

2022–present
BLA 1988 Landscape Architecture

Director of Development, Redwood Living, Inc.

Susan Hoffman

BA 1973 Interior Design

Lead Designer/Owner, Susan Hoffman Interior Designs


Dave Lingle

2017–present
BA 1977 / BArch 1983 Architecture

Retired Principal, alm2s

Elizebeth Murphy

Chair
BFA 1987 Graphic Design

President, Emspace + Lovgren

Scott Olson

2005–present
BArch 1969 Architecture

Real Estate Broker/Architect, Skogman Commercial Group


Bryce Pearsall

2002–present, past chair
BArch 1971 Architecture

Chairman Emeritus, DLR Group

Justin Platts

2020–present
BLA 2001 Landscape Architecture

Principal, RDG Planning & Design

Rob Reinders

2020–present
BArch 1977 Architecture

Retired Vice President of Design and Project Management, Marriott


Dick Rodine

2017–present
BS 1973 Urban Planning

Retired Executive Vice President, ISG

Bethany Wilcoxon

2020–present
BS 2008 Community & Regional Planning

Senior Advisor, McClure Engineering

Dana Wilkinson

2013–present, vice chair
BA 1978 Interior Design

Retired CEO, Paragon Commercial Interiors


Don Young

2015–present
BS 1976 Landscape Architecture

Principal, D. R. Young Associates