Distinguished alumni

Rob Roozeboom Distinguished Service to Humankind

Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy as a teenager, Roozeboom became rebellious and abused drugs. He was depressed, even suicidal. Through God’s grace, he came to understand that even if he couldn’t control his ailment, he could control his attitude. In 2001, Roozeboom founded RISE Ministries, an organization that seeks to encourage teens and adults to overcome adversity. He shares his insights on Rise Above Radio, a daily program on more than 250 radio stations worldwide, and travels nationally, sharing the stage with musicians and speakers like MercyMe and Ken Davis. Roozeboom’s ministry also produces an annual Christian music festival and has launched a mission trip experience for teens. A member of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s National Task Force on Public Awareness, Roozeboom has also appeared on the Jerry Lewis MDA telethon. In 2005, he was Iowa’s recipient of the MDA Personal Achievement Award.

Award year: 2008