Rod Denson JD

Transformational Higher Education Leader  President, Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

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Leadership Legacy

For over two decades, Rob Denson has redefined what's possible in community college education. His tenure began in 2003, and as DMACC's fourth president, he's become the institution's longest-serving leader and the first Iowa native to helm the college until his retirement in December 2025.. Under his stewardship, DMACC evolved from a regional education provider into a nationally recognized powerhouse of innovation and excellence.

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Iowa Roots, Global Impact

Born and raised on a farm near Homestead, Iowa, Rob's journey from rural roots to educational leadership exemplifies the transformative power of community college education. A proud Marengo High School graduate, he earned his B.S. in Political Science & Economics and M.S. in Higher Education Administration from Iowa State University, followed by his J.D. from the University of Florida in 1979. His career path uniquely prepared him for transformational leadership. He built his academic foundation through assistant dean roles at Iowa State University and the University of Florida, developed legal expertise during 16 years as a board-certified civil trial lawyer in private practice, and honed his higher education leadership through executive positions at Santa Fe Community College and Northeast Iowa Community College.

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Unprecedented Growth & Innovation

Rob's presidency delivered remarkable results that positioned DMACC as a national model for institutional excellence.

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             Achieved 50% enrollment growth while maintaining academic quality

         Secured over $100 million in strategic infrastructure investments

   Maintained Iowa's lowest college tuition rates and property tax levies

      Preserved top-tier bond ratings throughout his tenure

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Strategic Partnerships

Rob forged game-changing alliances with industry leaders, including TSA, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Microsoft, Intel, and Google—creating direct pathways from classroom to career for thousands of students.

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Crisis Leadership

His steady leadership guided DMACC through unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a sophisticated 2021 cyberattack, emerging stronger and more resilient.

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National Influence & Board Leadership

Rob's expertise extends far beyond DMACC's campuses. He chairs the National STEM Connector Higher Education Council and serves on influential boards, including Gateway to College National Network, Governor's STEM Advisory Council, United Way of Central Iowa, Opportunity Nation National Leadership Council, Technology Association of Iowa, and Iowa Economic Development Authority.

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A Legacy of Excellence

As Rob prepares for retirement on December 30, 2025, he leaves DMACC extraordinarily well-positioned for the future. His 22-year tenure transformed not just an institution but thousands of lives and entire communities across Iowa.

Rob Denson didn't just lead a community college—he reimagined what community colleges could be in the 21st century.