Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Profile

Jim Wiese has exemplified a “can-do” work ethic throughout a lifetime of service and leadership with the University of Iowa, most notably for the UI Alumni Association and the Henry B. Tippie College of Business. 

After four years as an active undergraduate and fraternity member, Wiese began a 34-year career with Arthur Andersen & Co. in Chicago. Within a few years, he became one of the youngest partners ever. In 1972, Wiese transferred to Cleveland, where he became indispensable as an audit partner specializing in the manufacturing industry.

Wiese always maintained strong ties with his classmates and the UI. Since 1958, he has been an outgoing spokesman for the UI’s accounting program and the Iowa Alumni Association. He recruited accounting graduates from Iowa, served on the Tippie College of Business’ Professional Accounting Council, and joined the Iowa Alumni Association Board of Directors. Wiese guided and advised professional accounting organizations as well as community nonprofits that support youth, disability services, and mental health. In 1991, the UI Accounting Department honored him with its Outstanding Accounting Alumnus Award.

When Wiese retired in 1992, he and his wife, Nancy (Baker) (58BA), returned to Iowa City, where he joined the steering committee for what is now known as the Pappajohn Business Building. Throughout his life, Wiese has embodied the motto, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” The Wieses are the proud parents of four UI graduates, and they have generously supported Hancher, the Tippie College of Business, and Hawkeye Athletics for many years.