The University of Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) has tapped Dana Rupe, founder of Alex + Abby Activewear and the Daden Group, as new director.
She succeeds longtime director Lynn Allendorf, who will remain on staff as a program assistant, according to a release from the university.
Ms. Rupe brings more than 20 years of experience launching and cultivating businesses. As an adjunct instructor at UI, she taught social media marketing for fashion and lifestyle brands in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
“A frequent guest lecturer and mentor, she is dedicated to creating experiential learning opportunities that connect students with the real world of entrepreneurship,” the release stated.
In addition to the athleisure brand and apparel licensing business, Ms. Rupe also co-founded Valley Apparel, which became a key licensing partner with adidas, holding licenses for the NFL, MLB, NBA and more than 300 collegiate teams.
Following her company’s acquisition, she remained on board to lead product development, international sourcing and sales, and to serve as vice president of its team division.
“It’s an honor to step into this role at such a pivotal time for entrepreneurship at the University of Iowa and in our state,” said Ms. Rupe, who began her duties as director June 9. “Iowa JPEC has a strong foundation, and I’m excited to build on it—expanding access, deepening industry connections, and supporting the next generation of Iowa’s innovators and changemakers.”
Rupe holds a Master of Science degree in textiles and clothing from Iowa State University and a Bachelor of Science in fashion merchandising and consumer studies from the University of Arizona.
