The Iowa Stater
May 2001
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The love bug
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| Roger and RoseAnne Rinderknecht |
"We know that we were given great educational opportunities, and placement when we were ready to find those first jobs," Roger said. "We were blessed with outstanding teachers who truly took a personal interest in our education and future. We are thankful for all those experiences and our professional careers, and we know much is due to ISU's reputation."
The couple became members of the Order of the Knoll through their support of scholarships in the colleges of Education and Agriculture. Many of those gifts have been in honor or memory of their favorite leaders.
"Being part of the Knoll means you've invested more of yourself," RoseAnne said. "As a benefit, you are associated with a group of people at these absolutely incredible events. Our only regret is that we didn't realize what a neat thing it is sooner. Though we've been members for over 10 years, we wish we had taken advantage of it earlier in our lives."
It was not by chance that the two attended Iowa State in the early 1960s. RoseAnne was "brainwashed" into enrolling by her ISU parents. Roger planned to work on the family farm near Vinton, but his father insisted he attend college first.
Going off to college, RoseAnne swore she would never marry anyone from Vinton (her hometown) and she would never teach. The two started talking in a long, hot registration line at the old gym, and Roger offered RoseAnne a ride home to Vinton when she wanted to go.
"The love bug hit," RoseAnne said. "And I still remember the excitement I felt talking with him. I waited until quarter break to take him up on the offer – and he's been providing my transportation for more than 40 years!"
RoseAnne earned a bachelor's degree in modern languages in 1964 and a master's in guidance and counseling in 1969. She taught French and Spanish in a number of Iowa towns until retiring six years ago.
Roger received a bachelor's degree in agricultural education in 1964. He taught Vo-Ag in Rockwell City and Webster City. He also managed Brenton, Firstar and two independent Des Moines banks. Last year, he was chairman of the Iowa Bankers Association. Currently, he is president of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce and serves as an ISU Foundation governor and a member of the College of Business Dean's Advisory Board. Both are members of the Alumni Association and the Greater Des Moines Cyclone Club.