Jane W. Peterson

Jane Denise Peterson was born in Ottumwa, Iowa on July 7, 1950. Jane earned her A.A. degree from Ottumwa Heights College in Ottumwa transferred to Iowa City and graduated with a B.A. in English from the University of Iowa in 1972. Jane began her teaching career at St. Jude's Catholic Middle School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In 1974 she moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota and taught for five years at School District # 200 in Hastings, Minnesota.

She married husband Stan in 1975. She continued her education at the University of Wisconsin and the University of Minnesota. Her son Matthew was born in Minnesota. Her family moved to Ames in 1978 where Jane pursued further educational opportunities and received her Ph.D. in 1987. During this period she also gave birth to twins (Nicholas and Emily) and son Timothy. Dr. Peterson became an Assistant Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Iowa State University in 1984 and an Associate Professor in 1989. In 1993 Dr. Peterson was named Interim Department Executive Officer (DEO) for the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Iowa State University where she also heads the science communication emphasis. She received the Presidential Service Award in 1995 for exemplary contributions beyond the ordinary course of duty enhancing diversity and multiculturalism at Iowa State University. Jane's special love of teaching and learning have been guiding principles for her.

These enduring characteristics have formed the foundation for a special love of family and the cornerstone for her career. Dr. Peterson has earned a national and international reputation in higher education. Jane has been a best friend and loving partner for her husband. She has been a mother dedicated to her family. And thus we honor her here as an educator wife and mother.

-With Deepest Love Her Family

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"Dr. Jane W.
Peterson
Mother of
Matt, Nick,
Emily, Tim"