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Member Profile: John Liepa
Each month you’ll be able to read a little more about the members who support
the State Historical Society. This month, we feature John Liepa, who is not only
a longtime member, but also Vice Chair of the State Historical Society Board of
Trustees. John lives in Indianola with his wife, Dianne, and daughter Hillary.
The Liepas have one son, Tory, who lives in New York City. John has served on
the SHSI board since 1998.
How did you first get involved with the SHSI Board?
After 30-plus years of visiting and doing research at the State Historical Society
Museum, I was inspired by people like George Mills and Dorothy Schweider and encouraged
by Tom Morain, all friends, to run for one of the three elected board positions
in 1998. I ran and I won, and am now currently serving my third term as board
vice chair.
Why did you want to be on the SHSI Board?
I've taught U.S. and Iowa history for 34 years; I've researched baseball history,
Civil War history and innumerable other historical topics for many years -- what
better way to influence the direction of history than to serve on the SHSI board.
One of my priorities for many years has been to get the Iowa legislature to pass
a bill to require the teaching of Iowa History in our K-12 schools. I won't be
content until Iowa has moved in the direction most states are going -- a mandated
semester to two years of Iowa studies.
What is your profession?
Instructor of History and Political Science at Des Moines Area Community College
from 1972 - present.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love sports, especially baseball and long distance running. I've run numerous
marathons; haven't missed a day of running in 28 years; have collected baseball
cards and memorabilia since 1956; and own historic newspapers from 1775 - present.
Also, our family has restored an 1871 country schoolhouse in Allamakee County
into a very relaxing retreat. Currently, I am the program chair for the Des Moines
Civil War Round Table and my responsibility is to invite interesting speakers
-- I've enjoyed it and it's working. Also, I serve on the Iowa Sister States Board
and have been closely involved with the Veneto, Italy and Stavropol, Russia committees,
and have made numerous trips to both regions.
What's the best advice you've ever received?
First George Santana, philosopher: "Those who refuse to learn from the past
are condemned to repeat it," and Lou Gehrig, NY Yankee (July 4, 1939): "Today,
I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of this earth." (Saying this,
knowing he's dying from ALS.)
What is your most treasured possession?
An 1874 CDV -- the first Iowan to play professional baseball -- Cal McVey with
his signature, one of only two known to exist. My boyhood baseball bat, autographed
by 15 of the 1956 New York Yankees.
What's the ONE THING you always have to have in your refrigerator at
home?
Ingredients for a good salad.
If you know of someone who would like to be featured in “Member
Profile,” contact Sarah Oltrogge at 515-281-4011 or Sarah.Oltrogge@iowa.gov
.
SHSI Membership Has Privileges
Did you know members of the Historical Society receive a 10 percent discount at our restaurant and stores? In Des Moines, visit the Iowa Museum Store and Grounds for Celebration inside the State Historical Building, 600 E. Locust Street in the heart of the Historic East Village. The Iowa Museum Store offers a wide selection of unique Iowa products, and “Grounds” has a wonderful array of fresh, seasonal offerings ranging from soups and salads to coffee and desserts—a world-class menu at down-to-earth prices. In Council Bluffs, be sure to visit the Trails West Museum Store at the Western Historic Trails Center, located in Council Bluffs on 24th Street south of I-80/I-29 (exit 1B) across from Bluffs Run Track & Casino. The Trail West store offers a large selection of Lewis & Clark, California, Oregon and Mormon trails memorabilia and unique Western Iowa gift ideas.
If you’re not a member, you can become one today and receive all the
benefits available from the State Historical Society:
o Iowa Heritage Illustrated
o The Historian
o 10% discount at Terrace Café
o 10% discount at The Museum Store
o Time Travelers Society - discounts at museums across the country
o Exclusive "members only" special events
Become a member today by contacting Sarah McKiness at 515-281-6911, Sarah.McKiness@iowa.gov
for more information.
