Profiles in Giving: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Marion Elmquist
Des Moines, Iowa

"The communications skills I learned as a UI student became the common thread throughout my entire career," said UI alumna Marion Elmquist.

That’s why the 1972 graduate of the UI School of Journalism and Mass Communication (J-MC School) in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences decided to give back to the University. Elmquist made a generous pledge to the campaign to help build the Philip D. Adler Journalism and Mass Communication Building.

After completing a B.A. degree at the UI, the Des Moines native moved to Chicago to work in advertising. Along the way, she received master’s degrees in advertising and business administration at Northwestern University in 1975 and 1985. She worked in advertising and publishing for nearly two decades, then returned to Des Moines, although she was involved in running an entrepreneurial business in Denver, which meant a lot of time on the road.

Since 1982, Elmquist has made annual gifts to numerous UI areas, including the J-MC School, Hancher, the UI Museum of Natural History, and the University of Iowa Alumni Association (UIAA). Over the years, the gifts have added up—not only has Elmquist had a powerful impact on the programs she supports, but she has also earned membership in The Presidents Club, which recognizes the UI’s most generous contributors.

Another of Marion’s passions has been her work with Ski for Light, an international program that pairs sighted guides with visually impaired cross-country skiers. Her 14 years as a volunteer with the program have led to many international friendships.

Since retiring from her fast-paced career several years ago, the avid adventurer has traveled much of the world, and commutes frequently between her homes in Des Moines and Vail, where she works part-time as an Alpine ski instructor.

Marion serves on the advisory board of the UI College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and represents the college as a member of the UIAA Board of Directors.

"The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences touches nearly every UI student, whatever field they pursue,” said Elmquist. “It’s important to support a liberal arts education, because it teaches students how to learn and creates a sense of curiosity about the rest of the world—music, history, all of the great things that enrich our lives."

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