After twenty-two years of dedicated leadership, Rob Denson announced today that he will retire as President and CEO of DMACC effective December 30, 2025. Denson has served in that role since 2003 and leaves behind a legacy of growth, innovation and commitment to student success.
Reflecting on his more than 40 years in higher education and 30 years of serving as a College President, first at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) and then starting at DMACC in 2003, Denson said his decision comes with mixed emotions and excitement for the future.
“We have accomplished many milestones together over the years as we have adapted and thrived,” said Denson. He cited a few examples of the College’s achievements including, new and expanding academic programs, enhanced student support services, more than $100 million in new and renovated, state-of-the art facilities and creating many local and national partnerships. “I specifically want to thank DMACC faculty and staff for all they have done that’s resulted in such success for DMACC,” said Denson.
The long-time College President said those achievements have focused on student success. “I’m most proud of each and every one of the thousands of students who have walked across our stage at graduation. By enrolling at DMACC these Iowans have opened new doors to careers, greater prosperity and success for themselves, their families, and communities,” said Denson. Since 2003, DMACC has experienced a 50 percent increase in enrollment.
Long-time DMACC Board President Joe Pugel reflected on Denson’s achievements. “It’s easy to look at the new bricks and mortar across the College to see how DMACC has flourished under Rob’s leadership, but I think the key to his success has been his ability to recognize the needs of our students, faculty and staff, and the communities we serve, then find solutions to those needs,” said Pugel.
Pugel led the candidate search in 2003. He said there were some key attributes that separated Denson from other candidates. “Rob is well-grounded, has strong Midwest values, a student-first mindset and the ability to form important partnerships. These strengths have also served him well over the years,” said Pugel.
During Denson’s tenure, DMACC has grown into a leading national institution. The College’s strategic vision has led to major partnerships with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Microsoft, Intel, Google, among others.
Back home, Denson also focused on creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all members of the DMACC community. Starting his work day before 5:30 a.m., Denson’s open-door policy meant that faculty, staff, students or members of the community could access him with any concerns or ideas.
Denson, who was also responsible for a $141 million annual budget, also focused on fiscal responsibility. DMACC has one of the highest bond ratings of any college in Iowa, among the lowest property tax levy, and the lowest tuition and fees of any college or university in Iowa.
Denson guided the College through some difficult times, including the COVID pandemic and a 2021 cyber-attack. “Pat (wife) and I have had a wonderful time being part of the DMACC family. I’ve always looked forward to getting up in the morning and getting to the office,” said Denson.
Pugel expressed deep gratitude for Denson’s extraordinary service and unwavering dedication to the College and communities it serves. “Rob will be greatly missed as he has set a high bar for the next President,” said Pugel. “Due to his leadership, DMACC’s future is set on a solid foundation and will move forward in a positive direction. We’re grateful for his vision and the strong institution he leaves behind.”
The DMACC Board of Trustees will hire a consultant and conduct a national search for Denson’s successor, ensuring a thoughtful and thorough process to select a new leader who will continue to build upon DMACC’s remarkable legacy.
Pugel said the Board will gain input from faculty, staff and the communities that the College serves. He said a few of the qualities the Board will be looking for in the next President will be experience managing a large organization, high ethical standards, fiscal expertise, ability to form partnerships and a student-first attitude.
Rob Denson and his wife Pat plan to remain in Ankeny where they will enjoy more time to be with their children and grandchildren. While he will retire from his current role at DMACC, he plans to maintain the friendships and connections he has built over his career.
Denson was only the fourth President in DMACC’s 59-year history, the first native born Iowan to be President.
For more information, contact: Todd Jones, (515) 964-6242 or (C) 515-238-8242, tgjones@dmacc.edu