Mary Jean Paschen 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 Mary Jean Paschen of Urbandale as a 2026 Iowa State Fair Iowan of the Day on Saturday August 22.

At 96 years old, Mary Jean Paschen continues to demonstrate that a lifetime of service has no retirement age. Through decades of volunteer leadership, community involvement, and dedication to education, the arts, and historic preservation, she has inspired generations of Iowans.

A retired music teacher, Paschen has devoted much of her life to organizations that strengthen Iowa communities. She is a longtime member and former president of Alpha Delta Kappa, an honorary organization for women educators, and has spent more than 40 years supporting women's education and leadership through the Philanthropic Educational Organization, where she also served as chapter president.

Mary Jean's commitment to preserving Iowa's history is reflected in her service with the Terrace Hill Society Foundation, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Iowa Society of the Descendants of the Mayflower, and the National Society of Colonial Dames of America.

Mary Jean has also dedicated decades to supporting Iowa's cultural organizations, serving on the Blank Park Zoo Board of Directors and Executive Committee, where she was honored as an Emeritus board member and continues to attend meetings, and remaining an active member of the Des Moines Symphony Guild since 1995, including serving as its president.

At Central Presbyterian Church, Paschen has faithfully served on the Board of Deacons, Worship Committee, Church Board, Nominating Committee, and choir.

Those who know Mary Jean describe her as an inspiration whose kindness, generosity, and servant's heart have touched countless lives. Every nomination letter submitted on her behalf praised her compassion, leadership, and enduring commitment to making her community a better place.

Mary Jean will be recognized for her Iowan of the Day Award on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage at noon on August 22. Along with being recognized she will receive, four admission tickets, four grandstand tickets, a VIP parking pass, hotel accommodations with Des Moines Marriott, $200 cash, an Iowan of the Day 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 $210 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.