Jordan Norton 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 Jordan Norton of Mt. Pleasant as a 2026 Iowa State Fair "Iowan of the Day" on Tuesday, August 18.

Jordan has dedicated his life to serving others, both in uniform and in his community. Through his military service, volunteer coaching, and commitment to supporting fellow veterans, he has made a lasting impact on countless lives while exemplifying leadership, compassion, and selfless service.

Jordan has proudly served in the United States Army since 2007, enlisting at just 17 years old while still in high school. During his military career, he deployed to Afghanistan for 14 months from 2010 to 2011, continuing a lifelong commitment to protecting and serving others.

Outside of his military service, Jordan devotes hundreds of hours each year to mentoring young athletes. As a volunteer coach with the Mt. Pleasant Youth Wrestling Club, he coaches boys and girls ages 3 to 13, contributing more than 450 hours annually to practices, tournaments, and supporting wrestling families. Whether arriving early to prepare, staying late to encourage athletes, or traveling hundreds of miles for competitions, Jordan is committed to helping every child succeed. He celebrates their accomplishments, encourages them through challenges, and strives to build strong, confident, and hardworking young people.

Jordan also volunteers as a spring soccer coach for first and third-grade girls, providing another opportunity to mentor youth and teach the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

His dedication to service extends beyond youth athletics. As a veteran volunteer with Every Step Hospice, Jordan has donated more than 500 hours supporting patients and their families. He has personally honored more than 25 veteran hospice patients through veteran pinning ceremonies, recognizing their military service and ensuring they receive the gratitude and respect they deserve.

Whether serving his country, mentoring young athletes, or comforting fellow veterans during life's final chapter, Jordan leads with humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others.

John 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 18. 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.