Alan Erickson Named Iowan of the Day

DES MOINES, IA (08/03/2026) (readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products are pleased to present Alan Erickson of Nevada as a 2026 Iowa State Fair "Iowan of the Day" on Friday, August 14.

For more than a decade, Alan has dedicated his time and talents to strengthening his community through volunteer service, mentorship, and leadership. Whether serving meals, mentoring students, or supporting local organizations, he consistently leads with integrity, faith, and a commitment to helping others.

Alan has volunteered with "Food at First" for 13 years, helping provide meals and support to those in need. He is also actively involved in his church, where he has led small Bible studies and discussion groups, encouraging others through faith and fellowship.

A passionate advocate for youth, Alan has spent many years helping build one of Iowa's premier high school drama programs at Nevada High School. Through his leadership of the "Thespian Troupe" and student leadership team, he has mentored more than 500 students while helping develop future leaders. His dedication has contributed to numerous achievements for the program, including an Outstanding Musical Performance award for The Little Mermaid and mentoring Iowa's first back-to-back Jimmy Awards recipients.

Beyond the stage, Alan has supported performing arts students by cooking hundreds, if not thousands, of burgers for concession fundraisers and regularly volunteering at additional school and community fundraising events.

While his accomplishments are significant, those who know Alan say his greatest impact comes from the relationships he builds and the encouragement he offers to everyone around him. His unwavering dedication to serving others has left a lasting impression on students, colleagues, and community members alike.

Alan will be recognized for his Iowan of the Day Award on the Iowa State Fair's Anne and Bill Riley Stage at noon on August 14. Along with being recognized he will receive, four admission tickets, four grandstand concert tickets, a VIP parking pass, hotel accommodations with the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, $200 cash, a golf cart for the day, and an Iowa State Fair Swag Bag.

The Iowan of the Day program, presented by the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, recognizes outstanding Iowans who have made a positive difference in their communities through service, leadership, and dedication to others.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Since its inception in 1993, the Foundation has generated more than $220 million for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. For more information, please contact the Blue Ribbon Foundation at 515-262-3111 Ext. 371 or Info@BlueRibbonFoundation.org.