David Spalding
President Wendy Wintersteen has appointed David Spalding interim vice president for economic development and business engagement, effective July 1 and subject to state Board of Regents approval. Spalding will retain his role as Raisbeck Endowed Dean of the Ivy College of Business.
Spalding succeeds Mike Crum, who requested a return to the Ivy College of Business, where he holds the Ruan Chair in Supply Chain Management.
"I am pleased that David has agreed to take on this interim role to ensure Iowa State’s economic development services, resources and partnerships remain strong as we navigate this transition," Wintersteen said.
Crum has served in the economic development leadership role for five years. Among his accomplishments, he led the planning that established the office of economic development and industry relations and oversaw construction of the division's home in the Economic Development Core Facility at the ISU Research Park.
"Mike has been exceptional at working with internal and external groups to strengthen Iowa State's value as a driver of economic growth and development," Wintersteen said. "We are grateful for his leadership in expanding Iowa State's economic impact."
Mike Crum
Crum will continue in his role as chair of the research park's board of directors, and he will continue to serve on the ISU Research Foundation Board until a permanent vice president for economic development and business engagement is named.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with a truly incredible team in economic development," Crum said. "Iowa State provides tremendous value to the state's economy in so many ways, and this will only expand under President Wintersteen's leadership. I am extremely excited for the future as we continue to demonstrate what a great investment Iowa State is."
Crum said the request for a change reflects his desire to return to teaching and research and a need for more time to tend to family members with health challenges.
He previously served as interim Business dean, associate dean for research and graduate programs, and chair of what now is the department of supply chain and information systems.
