The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers at the University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, Iowa State University, Drake University, and North Iowa Area Community College have announced a $10 million commitment from John and Mary Pappajohn in support of continued entrepreneurship education and programming.

Established at the five institutions in 1996 with a gift from the couple, the centers serve as the hub for entrepreneurship education and outreach on each campus. Through programs and events including business plan competitions, the centers provide entrepreneurs with support services and offer students opportunities to gain hands-on experience working with small business owners.

John Pappajohn, whose family immigrated to Mason City, Iowa, from Greece when he was nine months old, graduated in 1952 from the University of Iowa with a business degree. His father had died when Pappajohn was 16 years old, and he and his brothers managed the family business as he worked his way through college. Pappajohn is president of Equity Dynamics Inc. and Pappajohn Capital Resources in Des Moines.

"Mary and I are proud of the amazing developments in entrepreneurship in the state of Iowa," said Pappajohn. "We are thrilled to continue supporting the Pappajohn Centers, as they work to make Iowa the most entrepreneurial state in the country."

(Photo credit: University of Iowa)