Dr. Kenneth G. Brown has established himself as a prominent figure at the University of Iowa, serving across the University for 26 years and currently holding the position of Tippie Children Professor of Management and Interim Department Chair, Educational Policy and Leadership Studies. Renowned for his expertise in workplace learning, human resource practices, and nonprofit leadership, Dr. Brown’s scholarly work delves into how to facilitate learning, personal growth, and organizational change. His role as a Trustee for the Hoover Presidential Foundation is enriched by his academic prowess and a remarkable familial link to Herbert Hoover.
Dr. Brown’s journey to becoming a Trustee began when Shelly Mott, the Executive Director of Development and Planned Giving, recognized a need for his expertise. Dr. Brown’s extensive experience in understanding nonprofit challenges and his vast network have brought immense value to the Foundation.
Dr. Brown saw in the Hoover Presidential Foundation a nonprofit with a mission that resonated deeply with him. He appreciated the Foundation’s potential to create a symbiotic relationship with the University of Iowa, advocating for the widespread sharing of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover’s life stories. He noted that Hoover’s remarkable journey—from being orphaned and attending Stanford’s inaugural class to becoming a global entrepreneur, Secretary of Commerce, President, and devoted public servant—is a narrative worth integrating into all levels of education. Dr. Brown emphasized, “If you go to school in Iowa, you should understand all facets of the Hoovers. If students only know Hoover as the President during the Great Depression, they are missing fascinating and inspiring history!”
In his professional capacity, Dr. Brown’s expertise as an organizational psychologist has assisted us to evaluate and enhance our board’s performance. He initially collaborated with the Foundation through a class project, where his students worked directly with the CEO of the Foundation, gaining insights into nonprofit governance and operations. Recognizing the potential for growth, he advocated for the Hoover Presidential Foundation to be the Institute’s “nonprofit” assignment for the 2023/24 academic year. He not only facilitated this partnership but also provided financial support, resulting in comprehensive recommendations for marketing, communication, and re-branding. To continue this work, he aims to bridge the Hoover Presidential Foundation to other organizational partners at the University of Iowa.
A fascinating familial connection to Herbert Hoover adds a personal dimension to Dr. Brown’s role. His great-grandfather, Fred Williams, was a close friend and classmate of Hoover’s during their youth in Oregon. Both men shared a pioneering spirit, with Hoover and Williams traveling to Stanford together to be in the inaugural class.
While reflecting on the Hoover National Historic site, which he has visited often, Dr. Brown’s favorite spot on the Hoover Campus is the gravesite of Herbert and Lou Henry Hoover. He admires its serene beauty and historical significance, describing it as “beauty and history intertwined.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Brown aspires to see Hoover’s story taught across numerous educational levels, emphasizing its relevance and inspirational value. He also seeks to illuminate Lou Henry Hoover’s lesser-known but equally captivating story. As both a professor and Trustee, Dr. Brown is dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy and promoting the Foundation’s mission. His vision for resilient partnerships between the University and the Foundation underscores his belief that “working together, our voices could be louder,” ultimately enriching the understanding of the Hoovers’ multifaceted contributions to our Nation.