The Gerdin Business Building stands as the centerpiece of business education at Iowa State University. Known for its cutting edge design, vibrant student spaces, and industry level resources, the building is more than just bricks and mortar it’s where future business leaders are made.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about this innovative space that blends tradition with modern business learning.
Table of Contents
A Quick Overview: Why Gerdin Business Building Matters
History and Vision Behind Gerdin
Location and Accessibility
Inside the Expansion: What’s New Since 2020
Architectural Brilliance and Sustainability
Smart Classrooms and Technology Integration
Student Resources and Success Support
Networking Opportunities and Corporate Ties
Student Life: Collaboration and Community
Alumni Success Stories
Faculty Offices and Academic Guidance
Virtual Access and Online Tools
Community Outreach and Partnerships
Future Plans and Vision for Gerdin
Why Choose Gerdin Business Building?
Real Testimonials from Students and Faculty
FAQs
1. A Quick Overview: Why Gerdin Business Building Matters
Opened in 2003 and expanded in 2021, the Gerdin Business Building is more than a facility. It’s where students experience top ranked business programs, use real world technology, and connect with employers and alumni from around the world.
From undergraduates exploring marketing to MBA students mastering analytics, Gerdin provides the perfect space for every level of business education.
2. History and Vision Behind Gerdin
Named after Russell and Ann Gerdin, who made a generous donation to support business education at Iowa State, the building reflects their vision: a place where students could learn, grow, and lead.
Their goal was to create a hub for innovation and collaboration, which continues to guide the building’s evolution.
3. Location and Accessibility
Located centrally on Iowa State’s campus, Gerdin is easy to reach. It’s positioned near Wallace Road, close to parking, bus stops, and other key academic buildings.
Students love the walkable location and the scenic outdoor areas nearby perfect for breaks or casual meetings.
4. Inside the Expansion: What’s New Since 2020
In 2020, the Gerdin Business Building added 45,000 square feet of modern space. The expansion includes:
5 new classrooms
7 team rooms for group projects
35 faculty offices
A central common area
A high tech sales suite
Students immediately took to the new spaces, especially the team rooms designed for collaboration and peer learning.
5. Architectural Brilliance and Sustainability
The architecture of the Gerdin Business Building blends style with purpose. You’ll notice:
Glass walls that let in natural light
Open staircases for easy flow
Modern furniture and design throughout
But it’s also a green building:
LEED certified materials
Energy efficient lighting
Advanced HVAC systems
Waste reduction and recycling programs
These features support both learning and the planet.
6. Smart Classrooms and Technology Integration
Gerdin’s classrooms go beyond basic tech. They’re designed to reflect real business environments.
Key features include:
Interactive smartboards
Lecture capture tools
Real-time data displays
Integrated audio/visual conferencing
Secure Wi Fi and cloud access
This ensures students are ready for the digital business world.
7. Student Resources and Success Support
On the first floor, students find the Student Success Center, which offers:
Career counseling
Internship placement help
Resume and interview workshops
One on one advising
Everything is designed to help students succeed not only in class, but in their careers after graduation.
8. Networking Opportunities and Corporate Ties
The Gerdin Business Building isn’t just about classes. It’s a networking powerhouse.
Key Events Held:
Business, Industry & Technology Career Fair
Women in Business Conference
Entrepreneurship pitch competitions
Corporate Partnerships:
Companies like Deloitte, John Deere, and Principal Financial work closely with Gerdin through:
Guest lectures
Mentorship programs
Case studies and capstone projects
This brings real world experience directly into the classroom.
9. Student Life: Collaboration and Community
With over 25 student organizations based in Gerdin, there’s always something happening.
Popular clubs include:
Business Council
Women in Business
Entrepreneurship Club
Investment Group
The collaboration spaces including huddle rooms and tiered classrooms are perfect for group work, club meetings, and social events.
10. Alumni Success Stories
Graduates of the Ivy College of Business have gone on to impressive careers.
Highlights:
Alumni in over 30 countries
90%+ job placement within six months
Internships and jobs at Fortune 500 companies
The Gerdin Business Building plays a major role in preparing students for these outcomes, providing the tools and environment for professional growth.
11. Faculty Offices and Academic Guidance
The building houses over 60 faculty and advisor offices.
Students benefit from:
Easy access during office hours
Mentorship opportunities
Faculty-led research projects
Having faculty nearby encourages stronger relationships and more academic support.
12. Virtual Access and Online Tools
Students can also engage with Gerdin’s resources remotely. The building supports:
Online course recordings
Virtual career counseling
Digital library access
Remote lab tools for data and finance
This makes it easier for working students, international learners, or those with busy schedules to stay connected.
13. Community Outreach and Partnerships
Gerdin supports local and regional outreach through:
Business workshops for high school students
Partnerships with non profits
Community entrepreneurship programs
These connections help students give back and learn about real world impact.
14. Future Plans and Vision for Gerdin
The leadership at Ivy College of Business plans to keep evolving.
Upcoming goals include:
More graduate study lounges
Innovation hubs for startups
Industry specific labs
Sustainability upgrades
The vision is to keep the Gerdin Business Building at the cutting edge of business education.
15. Why Choose Gerdin Business Building?
Here’s a quick recap of why Gerdin stands out:
Modern design with sustainability in mind
Smart classrooms and real-time business tools
Strong corporate connections
Career and academic support under one roof
Welcoming, inclusive student spaces
Leadership driven, innovation focused vision
If you’re serious about a career in business, Gerdin is the place to start.
16. Real Testimonials from Students and Faculty
“Gerdin is more than just a school building it’s a launchpad. Every room has a purpose, and every event feels like a step toward your future.”
Emily Tran, Marketing Major
“We’re not just teaching business here. We’re shaping the next generation of leaders.”
Dr. Michael Crum, Associate Dean
17. FAQs
Q1. What makes the Gerdin Business Building unique?
Its combination of smart technology, green design, and strong industry connections makes it one of the best business education facilities in the Midwest.
Q2. What programs are taught at Gerdin?
It hosts undergraduate and graduate degrees in finance, accounting, marketing, supply chain management, and more.
Q3. How does it support careers?
Career fairs, internships, resume workshops, and mentoring programs all help students land jobs and succeed after graduation.
Q4. Can I take a virtual tour of the building?
Yes, Iowa State offers virtual tours and online resources to explore the Gerdin Business Building remotely.
Final Thoughts
The Gerdin Business Building is more than just an academic space. It’s where business students thrive, future leaders are built, and innovation is encouraged every day. Whether you’re an incoming freshman, a transfer student, or pursuing a graduate degree, Gerdin provides the tools, connections, and experiences you need to succeed in the global business world.