DES MOINES — The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation and Cookies Food Products will present Robert D. Ray of Des Moines as an Iowan of the Day for the 2014 Iowa State Fair.
Robert D. Ray is known to many Iowans as Governor Ray, or to some, just “Governor.” He served Iowa for 14 years, 1969-1983. Serving as a well-known governor is just the beginning for Ray. CEO of two Iowa insurance companies, an educational leader at Drake University and the national Republican Party leader are also on his list of past experiences. After leaving his governorship, Ray also served as an interim mayor of Des Moines and as the President of Drake.
“Honest, sincere and a man of integrity, Bob Ray has natural leadership talents and a personal warmth and charm that make him a favorite with all Iowans,” said Marcia Meller of the Iowa Hall of Pride. “Ray loves Iowa and its people. He takes pride in being remembered for his ability to raise the level of appreciation for the state of Iowa.”
Ray helped improve this level of appreciation in many ways. The Character Counts In Iowa initiative is well-known throughout the state. He was instrumental in bringing this program to Iowa and expresses a great deal of pride in serving as chairman of the Character Counts In Iowa board.
In 1979, 3500 refugees from Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam relocated to Iowa. While acting as governor, Ray stood up for those refugees from Southeast Asia by helping them secure jobs and a place to live. He is also noted for helping raise over $500,000 for Iowa SHARES.