BVU Honors Two Longtime Trustees for Their Leadership and Philanthropy
Dr. Norman Nielsen ’61 and David Dvergsten were recognized for their excellent service on the Buena Vista University Board of Trustees
Buena Vista University recognized two of its most devoted trustees, Dr. Norman Nielsen and David Dvergsten, for their years of transformational leadership, service, and philanthropy. Both concluded their service on the BVU Board of Trustees at the end of May 2025.
Dr. Nielsen, a 1961 graduate, has spent his career advancing education through research, teaching, administration, and advocacy. The former Kirkwood Community College President joined the BVU board in 2005 and served with distinction, including eight years as chair from 2012 to 2020. His thoughtful leadership extended to key committees, including Enrollment, Marketing, and Advancement; Finance and Sustainability; and the Investment Subcommittee.
Dr. Nielsen’s impact on BVU is reflected not only in his leadership and service but also in his generous philanthropic support. He has contributed to the Annual Fund, athletics, the renovation of the Harold Walter Siebens Forum, and established the Norman and Marian Nielsen Endowed Senate President Fund. As a member of the Z.Z. White Heritage Society, Dr. Nielsen demonstrates a deep commitment to BVU’s mission to prepare students for lifelong success through transformational educational experiences.
In recognition of his exceptional work and 20 years of service, the Board of Trustees has awarded Dr. Nielsen the Sir John Marks Templeton Life Trustee status, the highest recognition given to a retiring BVU trustee.
“BVU is my Alma Mater so serving on the Board of Trustees for the last 20 years has been an absolute pleasure,” noted Dr. Nielsen. “I was given the honor of serving as Board Chair for eight of those years which was challenging but enjoyable. I will now remain dedicated to the institution in the future.”
David Dvergsten joined the Board of Trustees in 2013 and has been a dedicated advocate for Buena Vista University and the greater Storm Lake community for over five decades. During his tenure, he served with thoughtful care and insight on several key committees, including the Student Success Committee, the Enrollment, Marketing, and Advancement Committee, and the Audit Subcommittee of the Finance and Sustainability Committee.
“In addition to providing outstanding academic opportunities for our students we must also recognize the economic activity that BVU brings to our area,” said Dvergsten. “BVU is certainly an important part of our area’s future.”
Mr. Dvergsten and his family have generously supported a wide range of initiatives, from scholarships and student travel funds to athletics and major campus projects. Their contributions include the renovation of the Harold Walter Siebens Forum, the Class of 2013 firepit, the Dvergsten Family Faculty and Staff Exercise Room, and the restoration of the BVU Centennial Needlepoint. The Dvergsten family’s enduring legacy reflects a lifetime of community engagement and steadfast support for BVU’s mission.
“Norm and Dave’s influence has been felt across every corner of our campus,” said President Brian A. Lenzmeier, Ph.D. “Through their leadership and philanthropy, they have strengthened BVU for the future and helped advance our vision to unlock every student’s greatest potential to build better lives and stronger communities. It has been an honor to work alongside them.”