Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen was honored as the innovationENTREPRENEUR of the Year by the Des Moines Business Record on July 11. The award recognizes her leadership in fostering a culture of innovation at the university, which has led to numerous accomplishments and advancements.
Wintersteen has made innovation a priority during her seven years as president, resulting in Iowa State University ranking consistently in the Top 100 Worldwide Universities Granted U.S. Utility Patents and earning accolades such as being named one of TIME Magazine’s Best Colleges for Future Leaders. The university also received the Entrepreneurial University of the Year for the Americas in 2023, highlighting its commitment to entrepreneurial initiatives and programs.
One key example of Iowa State’s innovative impact is the Digital Ag Innovation Lab, which has developed 32 products sold globally and leveraged $7 million in grant funding to generate $70 million in returns for small manufacturers in Iowa. Additionally, the Student Innovation Center offers students a cutting-edge space for collaboration in various fields.
Wintersteen attributed the university’s success to its dedication to cutting-edge research, groundbreaking innovations, and producing graduates who are innovative thinkers. Iowa State’s research park has also seen significant growth during her tenure, with over 130 high-tech companies and 2,500 employees.
Overall, Wintersteen’s award as the innovationENTREPRENEUR of the Year recognizes her commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at Iowa State University, leading to impressive advancements and accomplishments that benefit both the university and the wider community.
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Photo credit www.inside.iastate.edu
