Grand View University Announces 2026 Alumni Award Recipients
September 1, 2026
Grand View University has announced its 2026 Alumni Award recipients, recognizing alumni and friends whose accomplishments, leadership, service and contributions reflect the University’s mission and bring honor to the Grand View community.
The annual Alumni Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate a commitment to developing the whole person and making a positive impact in their professions, communities and beyond.
This year’s honorees are:
Distinguished Alumni Award: Amber Deardorff ’04
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes Grand View alumni who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in their professions and civic activities, are recognized as leaders by their peers, and demonstrate the character and spirit that reflect Grand View’s mission. Recipients exemplify the impact Grand View alumni can make through professional leadership, service and a commitment to others.
Deardorff '04 is president and CEO of Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, Iowa, a role she stepped into in August 2025 after more than two decades with the organization. She rose from registered nurse to the organization's top executive, building a career that reflects what Grand View prepares students to do: lead with purpose in the communities they serve.
Danish Heritage Preservation Award: Lynette Rasmussen
The Danish Heritage Preservation Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to preserving and promoting Danish heritage and its connection to the Grand View community. The award celebrates those who help carry Danish traditions and values forward for future generations while strengthening the connection between Danish heritage and Grand View.
Rasmussen has served as the Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Denmark since 2010 and continues to be a consistent advocate for Danish American culture in Iowa and beyond. She has been a champion for Grand View University, the Danish American Heritage Society, the Museum of Danish America, the Danish Brotherhood and more. Her support has been foundational to the University, helping bring Danish dignitaries and ambassadors to campus and keeping Danish heritage at the heart of Grand View's identity.
10 Under 10 Alumni Awards
The 10 Under 10 Alumni Awards recognize Grand View alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years and are making a significant impact in their professions and/or communities. The award celebrates the diverse interests, passions, leadership and accomplishments of Grand View’s young alumni.
The 2026 recipients are:
- Camden Blowers ’22
Community Outreach Coordinator, Kansas City Chiefs
- Kyle Boulanger ’19
Scientist, Vertex Pharmaceuticals
- Grant Henderson BA ’18, MS ’25
Head Men’s Wrestling Coach, Grand View University
- Kaylee (Grote ’18) Mathews
Owner and Operator, Raccoon River CrossFit
- Andrew McGuire ’17
Audio Visual Associate, Wixted & Company; Emmy Award-winning camera operator
- Jordan Nieuwenhuis ’23
Owner and Director, JK Dance Academy
- Eva Sandoval BA ’16, MS ’20
Director of Risk Management, Hy-Vee, Inc.
- Victoria (Richardson ’17) Shrewsberry
Licensed Social Worker, SOS Wellness
- Alex Welsch ’17
Optometrist, Ashworth Vision Clinic
- Joseph Wernau BSW ’22, MSW ’23
Founder, The Macro Lens
"Homecoming is when we get to step back and recognize what Grand View is really about," said LB Lyons '08, vice president for advancement. "These honorees haven't just built impressive careers. They lead with the values instilled by Grand View: vocation, service, integrity and a genuine commitment to the people around them. We are proud to call them Vikings, and we look forward to celebrating them at Homecoming."
The 2026 Alumni Award recipients will be recognized during Grand View’s Homecoming celebration during the 1896 Club Dinner on Thursday, October 1. For more information about the Alumni Awards and to view previous recipients, visit the Grand View University Alumni Awards page.