The Director of Admissions at Iowa State, Karsten Smedal, will be retiring in May.

Smedal became a part of the admissions staff in 1962 as an assistant to the director of admissions. He became director in 1975.

“It’s been a great run — almost 35 years at my alma mater,” Smedal said. “I’ve enjoyed my work tremendously due in large part to wonderful support from five administrations and hundreds of colleagues and co-workers.”

Through the years, Smedal has made an impact on the recruitment of Iowa State students.

“Karsten has provided stable leadership in our recruitment of undergraduate students for many years,” said Tom Thielen, vice president for student affairs.

“His effort, and those of his staff, are the primary reason Iowa State University has been able to recruit, from year to year, the largest incoming class of any Iowa university.”

The search for Smedal’s successor will begin in January. David Bousquet, the assistant vice president for enrollment, hopes to have a new director on the job by July 1, 1997.

Smedal said it has been a great sixteen years as director.

“The years have gone by fast. It’s the most rewarding experience helping so many students enroll at Iowa State,” Smedal said.

To anyone hoping to ascend to the director’s chair, Smedal said the position is a great one to have. Smedal said, “Because of admissions I help in the transition of enrolling students to college.”

Smedal grew up in Ames and attended Iowa State. He received his bachelor’s degree in English in 1962 and his master’s degree in higher education in 1974.

After retiring from his position at Iowa State, Smedal looks forward to more personal time.

“Right now, I am looking forward to more time. More time with family and traveling. We plan to stay in Ames,” Smedal said.