Grand View University Announces Izaah Knox as 2026 Commencement Speaker
March 30, 2026
Iowa State Senator Izaah Knox will deliver the keynote address and receive an honorary degree at Grand View University’s 2026 commencement ceremony. The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, and will take place at Casey's Center in downtown Des Moines.
Izaah JB Knox is an Iowa State Senator for District 17, Executive Director of Urban Dreams, and a committed father. At Urban Dreams, he has expanded programs serving over 30,000 people annually, strengthened finances, and built public‑private partnerships to drive social and economic impact. Elected in 2022, he serves on key Senate committees and is recognized for bipartisan leadership and community revitalization efforts.
A skilled communicator and storyteller, Izaah has delivered 100+ talks on leadership, workforce development, and urban growth. He holds a Master’s in Leadership and Organizational Development, a BA in Journalism, and is completing a Ph.D. at Iowa State University on apprenticeship and upward mobility.
He serves on multiple boards, reflecting his commitment to civic engagement, and enjoys coaching youth sports, traveling, and promoting Greater Des Moines’ arts and culture.
More information about Commencement can be found here.