The board of directors and staff of America’s Cultivation Corridor joins the greater Des Moines community to remember and pay tribute to Jay Byers, a visionary leader who had a profound impact on the many organizations, companies and individuals that he connected with every day. Jay passed away on April 17, 2025, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, optimism in central Iowa and across the state.
Jay grew up in a small town in northwest Iowa, attending Meriden-Cleghorn and Manson schools. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Simpson College and a law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law. After practicing law in Indianapolis, Indiana, Jay returned to his home state and began his career in public service as a congressional staffer for U.S. Congressman Leonard Boswell.
He served for 18 years with the Greater Des Moines Partnership, including 11 years as president and CEO, leading the organization at a time of growth and shaping a number of major regional initiatives, including the Capital Crossroads vision plan, which led to the formation of America’s Cultivation Corridor.
Jay returned to his alma mater in 2023 as president of Simpson College, making an immediate impact with his vision, energy and collaborative spirit.
Throughout his career, Jay forged strong, lasting relationships across Iowa’s businesses, educational institutions and beyond.
Driving force for agriculture and bioscience innovation
Jay was a founding member of America’s Cultivation Corridor board of directors in 2014 and served on the board for eight years, contributing his expertise and dedication to advancing innovation and economic growth in our region.
“KENT® Corporation extends our deepest condolences to Jay's family, the Simpson College community and all who mourn his loss,” said Gage Kent, KENT® Corporation chairman and CEO. “His leadership exemplified an unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration, supporting the next generation and bettering our State. May his legacy continue to guide and inspire us all.”
Jay’s leadership was instrumental in initiatives like the formation of the Iowa AgriTech Accelerator, which was a key part in the expansion of the state’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and ensuring that Iowa continues to lead in global agriculture and biosciences.
“Jay was a visionary leader and tireless advocate for Iowa’s future, especially in agriculture, biosciences, and economic development,” said Dr. Wendy Wintersteen, president of Iowa State University. “I saw that dedication firsthand while serving with him at America’s Cultivation Corridor. Jay brought incredible energy and a collaborative spirit to everything he did.”
Delivering transformational results with kindness, passion
Under Jay’s leadership, the Greater Des Moines Partnership experienced unprecedented growth, representing 11 counties, 24 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, over 6,500 members and more than 400 investors. His work played a critical role in the transformation of Greater Des Moines into one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest in terms of population, GDP and job growth.
“Jay was a transformational leader for Greater Des Moines and The Partnership, profoundly shaping the future of our region with his bold ideas and strategic vision. Jay deeply believed in the power of kindness, optimism and community. He was a friend to all and a genuinely wonderful person whose positive impact is beyond words,” said Tiffany Tauscheck, president and CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “His legacy will endure for decades through the people, projects, events, and ideas he championed and helped shape. His friendship, guidance and unwavering belief in our region will never be forgotten.”
His commitment to Simpson College was steadfast as a lifelong supporter, member of the board of advisors for 11 years, and president.
“When Jay chose to serve as president of Simpson College, I deeply respected that decision. As a fellow university president, I know how rewarding – and how challenging –that role is. He embraced it with the same passion and commitment that defined his entire career,” said Dr. Wintersteen.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jay was devoted husband and father. He was a passionate advocate for community development and workforce growth, always striving to create opportunities that would benefit future generations, for his family and others.
“I have many fond memories of working with Jay over the last 25 years. He always followed his strong compass in bringing leaders together to get things done. He truly shot for the stars daily, while still taking time to make each person he came in contact with feel valued, sharing that little spark in his eye,” said Billi Hunt, executive director of America’s Cultivation Corridor. “May we always remember that nothing great is ever easy, and when we bring people together, we can achieve great things.”
Learn more about Jay’s life and achievements in his obituary. Memorial contributions can be made to the Jay Byers Memorial Fund, which will be used by the family to support the causes Jay loved.
Published April 2025