Former Gov. Robert Ray will arrive for the Veishea 1996 celebration, “Continuing Iowa’s Heritage” this weekend, and will speak about Iowa State’s role in Iowa history in addition to various important Iowa events.

Ray is the keynote speaker for the Iowa Sesquicentennial Celebration during Veishea, to be held Saturday at 10:30 a.m. south of the Campanile.

Robert Ray, who governed Iowa from 1969 to 1983, will be the keynote speaker. He is chairman of the Iowa Sesquicentennial celebration.

Mark Lee, Veishea general co-chair, said the Veishea committee was “very excited” to have Ray speak at the celebration.

“We are trying to celebrate the Iowa Sesquicentennial by representing various aspects of Iowa history on campus,” Lee said. “I think [Ray] will provide an important link to the state and ISU.”

Shellee Novotny, Veishea general co-chair, said Ray was invited to speak because of his connection to Iowa and his well-known status as an important Iowan.

“The subject of his speech will probably deal with different highlights from Iowa’s history, and possibly their connection to ISU,” Novotny said.

Ray is a “very proud Iowan,” Lee said, and will have several unique stories to tell about his experiences in Iowa.

Ray graduated from Drake University with a degree in business administration and law. He has served as a delegate to the United Nations and as chairman of the National Governor’s Association. As governor, Ray established the Governor’s Commission of Health Care Costs. He is currently serving as president and chief executive officer of IASD Health Services Corporation.

Lee said he expects a good turnout for the speech.