Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Profile
William Fisher
J. William Fisher, a Marshalltown, Iowa, industrialist known in many circles as "Mr. Opera of the Midwest" is undoubtedly one of the nation's leading supporters of music. His generosity extends not only to the University of Iowa and Iowa State University, his alma mater, but to major opera theaters including the Metropolitan Opera and companies in Chicago, St. Paul and Seattle. His continuing philanthropy provides funds for the Fisher Chair in opera at the University of Iowa, and his generous yearly contributions help to support the Opera Theatre.
About Distinguished Alumni Awards
Since 1963, the University of Iowa has annually recognized accomplished alumni and friends with Distinguished Alumni Awards. Awards are presented in seven categories: Achievement, Service, Hickerson Recognition, Faculty, Staff, Recent Graduate, and Friend of the University.