A Legacy of Vision, Support, and Commitment: Celebrating Dean David Spalding’s Impact on CyBIZ Lab
As Dean David Spalding prepares to retire after an outstanding tenure as Iowa State University’s longest-serving dean of the Debbie and Jerry Ivy College of Business, we reflect on his immense contributions to the Ivy College of Business, particularly his role in the creation and growth of CyBIZ Lab.
Dean David Spalding photographed with members of the CyBIZ Lab team at the 10th anniversary celebration.
Though the concept of CyBIZ Lab existed before Dean Spalding arrived in 2013, his enthusiasm and commitment helped bring it to life in ways far beyond expectations. The idea originated with Pappajohn Center Director Judi Eyles and the previous associate dean of the College of Business, who envisioned a student consulting organization offering hands-on experience through real-world business projects.
“I remember presenting the business plan for CyBIZ Lab to Dean Spalding shortly after he started at Ivy on August 1, 2013,” Eyles recalls. “By September 1, I was recruiting the ‘Fantastic Four,’ and we embarked on our very first project! Dean Spalding’s enthusiasm fueled our efforts to launch CyBIZ Lab, and we haven’t looked back.”
Spalding, with his business background, immediately recognized the value of offering Iowa State students practical, real-world experience. He prioritized securing funding, ensuring the program had the resources it needed to succeed.
“I’ve always been a big believer that students learn best by doing,” Spalding shared. “CyBIZ Lab allows students to not only apply their knowledge but to gain experience that sets them apart in their future careers.”
Once funding was secured, Eyles focused on building a team. Four MBA students—Alex Andrade, who now serves as CyBIZ Lab’s program director, and three others—were hired to help get the program off the ground. Together, they shaped how the program would operate, recruited students, and came up with the program name, “CyBIZ Lab.”
The original “Fantastic Four” in 2014 from left to right: Naveen Dhanpal, Mohit Sharma, Avantika Ram, and Alex Andrade.
Although Spalding was initially puzzled by the inclusion of Iowa State’s mascot, Cy, in the name, he quickly understood its appeal. “To get students’ attention, you need to connect with them on their level,” he explained. “And CyBIZ Lab does just that.”
Spalding’s support extended beyond professional duties. His pride in the program was reflected in his personal commitment, proudly sporting vanity license plates reading “CYBIZ” and “CYBIZ1” on both of his vehicles as a tribute to the program.
As CyBIZ Lab grew, it exceeded all expectations, particularly in attracting high-quality projects and corporate clients. Initially concerned that businesses might hesitate to pay for student-driven projects, Spalding soon saw the program’s impact through returning clients who praised the students’ work. These clients, ranging from Fortune 500 businesses to nonprofits, became repeat customers, validating the quality of the students’ contributions.
“The repeat clients we have are a testament to the quality of work the students are doing,” Spalding said. “This program has become a valuable resource for companies of all sizes, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”
(Dean David Spalding’s aforementioned license plate.)
Beyond just benefiting students and businesses, CyBIZ Lab has had a significant impact on the broader community. David’s commitment to making sure that nonprofits could access the program’s services has helped local organizations grow and succeed. “CyBIZ Lab has touched many lives in our community,” he said, “and that’s part of the legacy that I’m really happy with.”
For Alex Andrade, CyBIZ Lab’s current director, Spalding’s support was crucial from the start. “From the very beginning, David believed in the idea of CyBIZ Lab,” said Andrade. “His involvement was key in structuring the program and developing our advisory board. He’s also been our biggest advocate, always bringing in new projects and connections. We consider him our unofficial Chief of Marketing!”
Blake McClure, CyBIZ Lab program manager, emphasized Spalding’s leadership style. “This program wouldn’t exist without David’s support,” McClure said. “His hands-off leadership allowed the program to grow and adapt. It gave us the flexibility to shape it into what it is today.”
Judi Eyles credited Spalding’s leadership with transforming an idea into a thriving program. “It’s been a great program, offering a meaningful educational experience to students while providing value to the companies and organizations we serve.”
One of Spalding’s key contributions was his focus on increasing Ivy College of Business student participation in case competitions, often based on skills learned through CyBIZ Lab. He has sent students, many of whom participated in CyBIZ Lab, to national and international competitions where they’ve consistently excelled.
“Case competitions are a perfect way for students to hone their critical thinking and presentation skills,” Spalding explained. “CyBIZ Lab students bring a unique perspective to these competitions because of their experience with research and analysis.”
The success of CyBIZ Lab has even inspired a new academic program at Iowa State: the consulting minor, which has attracted students who participated in CyBIZ Lab.
As Dean Spalding moves into retirement, his legacy remains firmly established. His commitment to providing students with hands-on experience, his advocacy for CyBIZ Lab, and his support for the broader Iowa State community will continue to shape the future of the university. Though stepping down as Dean of the Ivy College of Business, Spalding hopes to stay connected to CyBIZ Lab’s ongoing progress.
We look forward to seeing what the future holds, knowing it will continue to thrive, thanks in no small part to Dean David Spalding’s leadership and support.
