Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Profile

Robert N. Houser is chairman and chief executive officer of The Bankers Life in Des Moines one of the nation's leading insurance companies and the largest financial institution in Iowa. Mr. Houser joined the company in 1936 and was elected to its board on directors in 1973.

In addition to his leadership in business, Mr. Houser has contributed to a wide range of community services in Des Moines. He was general chairman of the city's United Way campaign and serves as chairman of the United Way Foundation of Central Iowa. He also serves as chairman of Mercy Health Center of Central Iowa and as a trustee of Drake University. He is on the board of directors of the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and serves as president of the Des Moines Development Corporation. Mr. Houser is also past chairman of the Iowa College Foundation and a member of its Board of Governors.

A member of Phi Beta Kappa, Mr. Houser received his B.A. in mathematics with highest distinction from the UI in 1947. He is a member of the Presidents Club and a life member of the Alumni Association.