Any idea who represents you on Staff Council? The feedback we’ve received suggests that many University staff members would answer “no.” The Councilor Spotlight series is intended to introduce new Council members and how they serve the University on Staff Council. Why would you want to contact your representative? They can elevate your concerns or ideas, help you find information, and connect you with resources across campus. Click here to find your representative.
Staff Council Spotlight: Ian Bjurstrom
Organizational Representative, Finance & Operations (F&O)
Meet Ian Bjurstrom, Construction Services Manager with Facilities Management Design & Construction and the Finance & Operations Organizational Representative on Staff Council. Ian has been with the University of Iowa for four years, helping complete departmental requests, repairs, maintenance projects, and space improvements across campus. One of the things he enjoys most about his role is working with departments across campus and helping bring their ideas to life through customized solutions.
Ian joined Staff Council to become more engaged with the university community, build connections with staff across campus, and gain a deeper understanding of the people and departments that help make the university successful. He serves on both the Communications Committee and the Committee on Committees, where he hopes his experience working across campus can help him understand and communicate the needs of staff.
When asked what inspires him, Ian shared that he is motivated by the drive to continually improve the world around him. He believes that we all play a role in creating the communities and environments we want to live in.
Outside of work, Ian enjoys spending time with his two kids. Whether they're playing foosball, air hockey, making some questionably "great" music together, or finding new adventures, family time is at the center of what he enjoys most. One of his favorite local outings is sneaking away with his son to Barter Toys & Collectibles whenever his wife "loses track" of them for a little while. For Ian, a perfect day is simple: having the whole family together, spending time outdoors, exploring local green spaces, playing soccer or catch, hosting cookouts with friends, and watching the kids run around having fun.
If a song played every time Ian walked into a room, it would be “My Hero” by Foo Fighters. And if he could have any superpower, he'd choose flying. As Ian puts it, "No more gas prices!" He does admit, however, that it might make hitting his daily step count a little more difficult.
Learn more about our other new Councilors and the latest news for University staff in our newsletter articles here.