Kaleb Brand
Mount Vernon, Iowa
Class of 2024
Why did you choose Central?
I chose Central because I knew it was the right environment for me to grow academically and athletically. I’ve had numerous relatives graduate from Central, including my parents, so I was well aware of what it meant to be Dutch. The community is filled with professors, coaches, workers, and staff members who genuinely care about you and are invested in your future. I think being located in the city of Pella is pretty special too!
Favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor would have to be George Nwaogu. I’ve had Professor George a few times now in economics classes and, although his tests can be unforgiving, he never fails to put a smile on your face. I love how he constantly checks up on students to see how they are doing and comes to class every day with good energy that seems to be contagious.
You’re majoring in business management because?
I’m majoring in Business Management because it best aligns with my interests, strengths, and skills. I was initially undecided about my major, but after taking a couple of business classes during my freshman year I knew it was the route I wanted to take. After completing internships over the summer with different corporations, I know I made the right decision. I enjoy the versatility a business degree provides so I have the opportunity to use the things I’ve learned at Central in various roles and industries.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
Besides Basketball and Track, I am a Student Representative to the Board of Trustees as well as an FCA Huddle Group leader for the Men’s Basketball team. I also hold an on-campus job with Student Development. With any free time, I am an avid disc golfer and undoubtedly one of the best players on campus! (HMU if you want to find out)
Who are your go-to musical artists?
Jason Aldean, Cole Swindell, Luke Bryan, Drake
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
The life lessons I’ve learned through playing sports have had a tremendous impact on my life and led to personal growth in many different areas. Sports have taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, teamwork, time management, and leadership, among other things, which you can carry over into your life and the real world. In addition, you have an opportunity to make lifelong friends by being a part of a team at Central!
What’s your pre-game routine look like?
Before games I’ll typically take a nap, or carry my Fortnite squad— Josh “Sharpshooter” Van Gorp, Kole “Clutch” Tupa, and Grant “Newbie” Johnson— to a win, or listen to some T Swift with my friend Drew Edwards!
Favorite Disney movie as a kid
The Incredibles
What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever broken?
Aside from multiple of my friends’ Wii remotes and PS4 controllers (sorry guys)... when I was younger, my sister and I were playing catch, which came to a halt when I tossed the softball straight through one of our large bedroom windows.
Favorite NBA team or player?
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Favorite TV Show
Shooter or Ted Lasso
What’s it like to play for Coach Steinkamp?
Amazing! Coach Steinkamp, Coach Riordan, Coach Holan, and Coach Kade are all extremely knowledgeable about the game of basketball, great leaders, help build a positive team culture, passionate about Central College, and truly care about the players in our program. They’ve made me a better person and player.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central’s men’s basketball team?
What I like best about Central Basketball is the team culture. We have great leadership from our coaching staff and players. In practice and on the court, guys push each other to get better, hold one another accountable, and compete with a high level of intensity. Off the court, we enjoy doing other activities with each other and get along well.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
10 years from now I hope to be doing something I’m passionate about that serves a greater purpose.
Favorite food from Central Market
Brisket quesadillas
Bucket list
- Go watch the Olympics
- Serve on another mission trip
- Own a vacation lake/beach house
- Watch Iowa win a national championship
