Distinguished Alumni Award
David J. Fisher 61JD
David J. Fisher, 62JD, Des Moines businessman and lawyer, actively lends his business expertise and support to a number of UI programs.
Fisher's service to the University began as a student. While immersed in legal studies, he found time to participate in many extracurricular activities, including work on the Iowa Law Review and Moot Court sessions.
More recently, he has proven a tireless and dependable friend of the University in a variety of areas. President and owner of the Onthank Company, a carpet, wall covering, and kitchen interiors distributor, Fisher serves on a variety of boards for business and charitable organizations in the Des Moines area. He regularly offers his time, talents, and leadership ability to attract business support to the UI.
An ardent booster, Fisher is particularly concerned with the academic success of Hawkeye athletes. Each spring he hosts a reception to introduce graduating men and women athletes to potential employers in Iowa. The meetings are not simply beneficial for the graduating athletes, but also enhance the rapport between University officials and business and professional leaders in Iowa.
Former president of the Polk County I-Club and member of the board of directors of the National I-Club, he was named "Hawk of the Year" by the national club in 1984. In 1989, he was selected as an honorary letterman by the National Letterman's Club. He is also a member of the National Steering Committee for Iowa Endowment 2000 and is director of the UI Foundation.
Fisher has contributed to Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Iowa Hall, the College of Business Administration, and the Liberal Arts Placement Library in Phillips Hall. He and his wife Dorie are life members of the Alumni Association and the UI Foundation's Presidents Club.
About Distinguished Alumni Awards
Since 1963, the University of Iowa has annually recognized accomplished alumni and friends with Distinguished Alumni Awards. Awards are presented in seven categories: Achievement, Service, Hickerson Recognition, Faculty, Staff, Recent Graduate, and Friend of the University.