After serving as Associate Director for 21 years, Bill Jackson has announced his retirement from Keep Iowa Beautiful after supporting the organization since its inception in 2000.
“For 21 years, I was proud to work with such dedicated staff and board members,” said Jackson, “all striving to make Iowa a better place to live and raise a family.”
Jackson led a career of service to Iowa and its citizens. Beginning in 1961, Jackson joined WHO TV as a part-time “floor boy” in the production department. Over the years, Jackson was promoted to camera person, lighting director, audio director, assistant director, director and production manager before departing in 1970. From here, Jackson accepted a position as the administrative assistant to Governor Robert D. Ray from 1970 to 1979. In 1979, Jackson received an offer to return to WHO as the Station Manager until 1986 when Governor Terry Branstad appointed Jackson to direct the newly formed Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs. In 2000, following his time at the Department of Cultural Affairs and a short-term position with the U.S. Census Bureau, Jackson joined Keep Iowa Beautiful.
“Keep Iowa Beautiful is beyond thankful for the dedication, expertise and passion Jackson has shown our organization throughout his tenure,” says Kevin Techau, Executive Director of Keep Iowa Beautiful. “Bill’s leadership will be missed, but we wish him a joyful retirement.”
Jackson’s service to Iowa surpasses his career involvement through his membership in the Des Moines Symphony Board of Directors, Arts Midwest Board, Des Moines Rotary Club and the Gold Star Museum. He is past president of the Salvation Army Board of Directors, treasurer of the Chinese Cultural Center of America and member of the Iowa Sister State Committee, the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, the Des Moines United Way Campaign Committee and the Iowa Broadcasters Association.
