Iowa State University Athletics
Cy's Favorite Alum: Jon & Julie Schaben
11.02.2016 | Athletics, Cyclone Club
One football game stands out above all others in Jon Schaben's memories from his time at Iowa State. As it happens, that game was a lot like tonight's: a Thursday night matchup between the Cyclones and Sooners in front of ESPN's national audience. It was the first-ever night game at Jack Trice Stadium, and Jon remembers portable lights being brought in to light up the gridiron.
That time, he sat under the lights in the student section. This time, though, he and his wife, Julie, will stand under them down on the field.
This year, the Iowa State Athletics Department recognizes Jon and Julie Schaben as the recipients of the 2016 Cy's Favorite Alum award. Since 1955, the Iowa State University Athletics Department has recognized the loyalty and accomplishments of a graduate or friend of Cyclone Athletics.
"We're just excited and honored by getting this honor," Jon said. "It's a pretty big deal for us. We appreciate it."
Jon and Julie graduated from Iowa State University in the fall of 1987 and the spring of 1988, respectively, both with degrees in animal science. The two now live in Dunlap, Iowa, where, along with some family, they own Dunlap Livestock Auction. They also own West Point Livestock Auction in West Point, Nebraska.
They have four children, two of whom are current college students and one who plans to attend DMACC for animal science before transferring to Iowa State. The Schabens have been football season ticket holders for nearly 20 years and also follow the Cyclones on the road a couple of times every season. In addition, Jon helps raise funds for the athletics department each year by serving as the auctioneer at several Cyclone Club and Gridiron Club events.
"We don't give up our seven Saturdays a season. We hold those dear to our heart," Jon said.
Other favorite memories from their time at Iowa State include the brock and bridle club, meeting new roommates that turned into lifelong friends and attending basketball games during the beginning of Iowa State's rise under coach Johnny Orr. Topping all of those, however, is meeting each other here in Ames.
"Iowa State was good. Iowa State was very good to us," Jon said. "It's a lot about who we are and we're sure very proud to be graduates of Iowa State."
"We are so pleased to recognize Jon and Julie Schaben at this year's recipients of Cy's Favorite Alums," said Iowa State Athletics Director Jamie Pollard. "You will not find two people that are more willing to drop everything they are doing to help support Cyclone Athletics. Â Despite having to commute from Dunlap, Iowa, the Schabens will always be at every fundraising and Cyclone event we have. Â If John Walters is the voice of the Cyclones, then Jon Schaben in the "Auctioneer" of the Cyclones. Â Jon has used his talents to help raise more money for our athletics department than anyone can ever imagine. Â It is simply wonderful that we get to finally give back to Jon and Julie for their dedicated service and loyalty to Cyclone Athletics."
Thank you for your support, Jon and Julie Schaben!
