Simpson College President Jay Byers Found Dead at 54

INDIANOLA, Iowa – Jay Byers, the president of Simpson College, was found dead on April 17, 2023, at the Sigler House, the college president’s residence. He was 54 years old. A wellness check was conducted after Byers missed several scheduled meetings, prompting concern among staff and students.

The Simpson College community received an alert regarding the situation, but details about the cause of death are currently under investigation. In response to the tragic news, all classes at the college have been canceled until April 22.

Byers, who had just begun his tenure as president in July 2022, was a respected figure in the Des Moines metro area. A notable alumnus of Simpson College, he graduated in 1993 and held significant leadership roles prior to his presidency, notably serving as the CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership for 11 years.

Under Byers’ leadership, the Greater Des Moines Partnership became one of the largest regional chambers of commerce in the nation, representing 24 affiliate chambers and approximately 6,500 members. Officials credited him with facilitating substantial economic development during a time when the Des Moines metro area experienced rapid growth.

The Partnership expanded significantly during Byers’ tenure, which included fostering relationships with influential leaders in politics and the business community. His background also included a role as an assistant to former U.S. Representative Leonard Boswell and work on redeveloping areas such as the Western Gateway, which now features the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and several prominent urban projects.

While Byers had recently been recovering from injuries sustained in a “serious” automobile accident, those at the college and in the community expressed shock and sadness at the sudden loss of their president. A news conference has been scheduled for 4:45 p.m. at Simpson College to provide further updates.