Blake Van Der Kamp

Blake Van Der Kamp is a passionate communicator, current Orr Fellow, and Digital Marketing Specialist at Liberty Fund, driven to transform how brands educate their target audiences and revolutionize how organizations amplify their missions. By combining data-driven insights with the power of storytelling, Blake seeks to create meaningful connections and impactful messaging through strategic communication.
Van Der Kamp is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Strategic Communication at Butler University, furthering his expertise while contributing to the work of Liberty Fund, an Indiana-based think tank. His academic journey began at Iowa State University as an undergraduate, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with triple majors in Agriculture and Life Sciences Education, International Agriculture, and Public Relations, along with a Certificate in Leadership Studies.
With a proven track record of national and global advocacy, Blake has represented non-profits and EdTech organizations across diverse industries. His passion for education and strategic communication was sparked during his tenure as State Reporter for the Iowa FFA Association, where he championed marketing campaigns and high-profile events highlighting agriculture's vital role in society.
Picture
In 2020, Blake was honored as a Presidential Scholar for Career & Technical Education by the United States Department of Education, recognizing his outstanding contributions. These include launching a high school recycling program that diverted over 26,400 pounds of materials for recycling, organizing a supply drive that delivered $5,000 worth of school supplies to underserved rural youth, and advancing agricultural education across Iowa.
Blake's leadership also extends to the global stage. He served as one of five North American delegates at the Bayer Youth Ag Summit and as a panelist and advisory council member for the United States Farmers and Ranchers in Action's (U.S.F.R.A.) Honor the Harvest Forum. Engaging with influential leaders, including the Vice President of the American Farm Bureau, Blake emphasized the importance of elevating youth-driven solutions and fostering sustainable agricultural innovation.
Professionally, Blake has lent his expertise to organizations such as the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation (I.A.L.F.) and the World Food Prize Foundation. Notably, he helped plan the celebration of the state of Iowa's inaugural George Washington Carver Day, where state leaders, including Governor Reynolds, celebrated the legacy of the trailblazing scientist and educator. In addition, he independently led an rebrand of the I.A.L.F. organization.
Following his current studies, he plans to further his education with a Master's Degree in Digital Media Design from Harvard University while advancing his career in marketing and strategic communication.
Through his local, national, and international efforts, Blake remains steadfast in his aspirations to promote non-profit organizations' missions and elevate their profiles to reach publics. His dedication to these causes reflects his lifelong commitment to empowering communities and shaping a brighter future.