The Start
I was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Jerry and Sharon Staton, both educators. My mother taught English and Literature, while my father taught Physical Education and coached football. Because of my father's coaching career, our family moved frequently throughout Iowa and southern Minnesota before eventually settling in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Those experiences taught me flexibility, resilience, and the importance of community.
After graduating from Oskaloosa High School, I attended Central College in Pella, Iowa, where I majored in Business Management and earned an Iowa teaching certification. I was also fortunate to play football for legendary head coach Ron Schipper, serving as team captain during my senior season and helping lead the team to the NCAA Division III National Championship game. Following graduation, I earned my Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Emporia State University in Kansas. While there, I served as a graduate assistant football coach and was part of a staff that helped lead the team to the NAIA Division I National Championship. One memorable connection from that experience was coaching future NFL player Leon Lett.
My professional career began at Central College, where I taught business courses and coached football. I later joined Pella Corporation, starting as a Training Specialist before moving into Human Resources. In 1998, I relocated to Story City, Iowa, to help launch a new Pella manufacturing facility. Over the years, the operation grew to approximately 450 employees. Following the closure of the facility in 2008, I continued my HR leadership career with LGI in Ankeny and later with Renewable Energy Group (REG) in Ames. After Chevron acquired REG in 2022, I remained with the organization until 2025, when I transitioned to higher education and joined Iowa State University as an Associate Professor of Practice.
Jeff's Family
In 1989, I married my wife, Tawnya, and together we raised three children: Ashley, Jerod, and Brett. Family has always been at the center of our lives and has provided both purpose and perspective throughout my career.
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A significant influence on my life was my father, Coach Jerry Staton, who passed away in 2025. An Iowa Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame member, he demonstrated the value of leadership, service, and personal character in every community he served. His example continues to shape my approach to life and work.
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Today, Tawnya and I enjoy spending time with our children and our grandchildren, Tate and Brooks. Family, education, leadership, and service remain the guiding themes of my personal and professional journey.