Iowa Native NFL Referee to Speak at Newton Event

Scott Halverson, a back judge who has officiated three Super Bowls, will be the featured speaker at the Voices of Inspiration series.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:43pm

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An Iowa native who has been refereeing NFL football games for 22 years will be speaking in Newton tonight as part of the free 'Voices of Inspiration' spring speakers series presented by the United Way of Jasper County. NFL back judge Scott Halverson, who played football for the University of Iowa, will be the featured speaker at the event.

Why it matters

The Voices of Inspiration speaker series aims to highlight successful Iowans who have gone on to achieve national recognition in their careers, challenging the perception that Iowa is a 'fly-over state'. Halverson's story as an NFL referee is an inspiring example of an Iowan making it big on the national stage.

The details

Halverson began refereeing youth football in the Des Moines area and has since ascended to officiating in three NFL Super Bowls over his 22-year career. The event organizers see Halverson as another example of an Iowan who has done 'really big things' both within the state and on a national level.

  • The event will take place tonight, March 12, 2026.
  • Doors will open at 6:00 pm, with the program beginning at 6:30 pm.

The players

Scott Halverson

An Iowa native who has been refereeing NFL football games for 22 years, including officiating in three Super Bowls.

Jessica Lowe Vokes

The Executive Director of the United Way of Jasper County, which is presenting the Voices of Inspiration speaker series.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes we get looked over as a fly-over state. But you can go on and do really big things, whether in the state or on a national stage. You can do some really cool stuff.”

— Jessica Lowe Vokes, Executive Director, United Way of Jasper County

What’s next

Free-will donations will be accepted at the event to help continue the Voices of Inspiration speaker series.

The takeaway

The Voices of Inspiration series aims to showcase successful Iowans who have achieved national recognition, challenging the perception that Iowa is simply a 'fly-over state'. Halverson's story as an NFL referee is an inspiring example of an Iowan making it big on the national stage.