The Simpson College Board of Trustees has named Jay Byers as the 25th President of Simpson College, after a months-long search beginning in January of 2023 when Marsha Kelliher announced her intention to retire this summer. Byers is a Simpson graduate, and served as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2012, and previously served as the President and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Board of Trustees Chair Terry Handley says Jay is a perfect choice to lead Simpson College.
“He has a fervent passion for Simpson’s mission and a distinguished history of game-changing, visionary leadership. We are excited to see the innovative boldness he will bring to building on the significant strategic momentum created under President Kelliher.”
Byers said in a statement he would never have imagined he would have the incredible opportunity to be President of Simpson.
“I am truly humbled and honored to receive the confidence of Simpson’s Board of Trustees and the Presidential Search Committee. During my board service, I have gained a front-row view of the exciting momentum that continues to grow at Simpson. I am thrilled to be joining such an impressive community of students, faculty, staff, alumni and benefactors who make Simpson such a special place. Together, we can, and we will take Simpson to new heights of distinction. I can’t wait to get started.”
Prior to the president & CEO position, Byers served as The Partnership’s senior vice president
of Government Relations and Public Policy. Before joining The Partnership, he worked as
district director for Iowa Congressman Leonard Boswell and as an attorney at the Ice Miller Law
Firm in Indianapolis, Indiana, after earning his law degree from the University of Iowa College
of Law.
Greater Des Moines Partnership Board Chair Mike McCoy said Byers was an immense part of the growth and success of the partnership over the last decade.
“Jay’s visionary leadership has had an enormous impact on Greater Des Moines, and we have been extraordinarily fortunate to have him at the helm of The Partnership for over 11 years. He has helped transform our community, helping put DSM on the map, while also fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. His leadership has built a team that consistently meets goals and builds upon past successes, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit our community for years to come.”
Byers will be formally introduced at a Simpson College news conference scheduled for
1:30pm tomorrow in Hubbell Hall on the Simpson College campus. President Kelliher will stay on through the summer to help the transition.