Spotlight on 2015 Iowan of the Day winner Jary Quandt

As all the Blue Ribbon Foundation interns are in this week, it marks the first week of summer! Working full time has given me plenty of time to chip away at my Iowan of the Day to do list.

One project I’ve started is reviewing the Iowan of the Day applications from previous years. It’s amazing to see how many selfless people live in Iowa and strive to make this state even better.

One example is 2015 winner Jary Quandt from Westside, Iowa! Jary is the Feed Production Supervisor for FAC cooperative in Arcadia, Iowa. He also started his own lawn care business in 1986 that he is still running today. Through all of this Jary still manages to deliver the Sunday newspaper.

Jary is very active in his local church by serving on the pastoral relations committee and helping with Vacation Bible School. Jary shows up early every Sunday to unlock the church and prepare communion before the services begin.

Serving the public in many ways, Jary is on the Westside City Council and focuses on economic development. Jary has also served for over 25 years as a volunteer fire fighter, and organized a New Year’s Eve steak supper to raise money for the Westside Fire Department. As if this wasn’t enough, Jary also helps during football games and manage a little league team.

Jary’s community can rely on Jary to help whenever they need it. In turn, Jary got to reap the benefits of being an Iowan of the Day at the 2015 Iowa State Fair!

“The experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity and showed me that Iowans really do appreciate things you do for them. The event was very well organized and it was an honor to be a part of the Iowan of the Day program,” Jary said.

If you know anyone who volunteers their time to make their community a better place, consider nominating them as the Iowan of the Day!

-Audra