Mark West '81 Joins Grand View University Board of Trustees

November 24, 2025

Grand View University is pleased to announce that Mark West, a 1981 graduate and longtime supporter of the institution, has joined its Board of Trustees. West is a former executive with Principal Financial Group, where he built a distinguished career as a nationally recognized expert in tax and business planning and served as a frequent speaker and author in the field. He now consults part-time with Thrivent.

During his time at Grand View, West played basketball under legendary coach Dave Sisam, graduated with honors, and later earned a law degree from Drake University. He was inducted into the Grand View Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013.

West and his wife, Anne ’85, are dedicated supporters of the university and proud members of a family with many Grand View graduates. They have been deeply involved with the men’s basketball program, offering financial support and regularly hosting team dinners. In recognition of his service, West received the 2022 Robert L. Mahaffey Community Service Award from Grand View Athletics.

Beyond campus, the Wests have made a significant community impact through their involvement with organizations such as United Way, Hope Lutheran Church, On With Life, Children’s Cancer Connection, Southeast Polk Dollars for Scholars, Agape Pregnancy Resource Center, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Navigators, and Hope Ministries.

A full list of current Grand View University Board of Trustees members can be found here.