Alex Ernst, an Iowa State football video production specialist, passed away this week.
Below is Iowa State’s statement as well as comments from colleagues that have posted about him.
AMES, Iowa – The Iowa State Athletics Department mourns the loss of football video production specialist Alex Ernst, who passed away Sunday in a car accident.
Ernst was dedicated to Cyclone Athletics, particularly football where he worked with the program for nearly two decades, starting as a student and continuing into a full-time role after his graduation. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 2010 and his master’s degree in higher education in 2014, both from Iowa State.
“We are devastated by the tragic passing of Alex Ernst,” ISU Director of Athletics Jamie Pollard said. “For nearly 20 years behind the scenes, first as a student and then as a full-time employee, Alex was an unsung hero who played an important role our department’s success through his outstanding work in video operations. Everyone in the ISU Athletics Department family is keeping Alex’s loved ones and friends in their thoughts and prayers, as well as the other individuals lost in this terrible accident.”
He was passionate about all of Iowa State’s athletics teams, but specifically about the Cyclone football program where he filmed practices and games, while aiding the coaching staff in preparation both during the season and the offseason.
“We are heartbroken by this news,” Iowa State head football coach Matt Campbell said. “Alex was an important and valued member of our football family and had a special relationship with so many in our program. He was exceptional at his job and took great pride in what he did. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Alex was ” the do anything, for anyone, at anytime , with a grin on his face guy” . He once told me ” Good people make for Good times” ….He was GREAT people🙏🏽 The Best 💛🌪️ https://t.co/i6AGlqP1Hb
— JON HEACOCK (@Coach_Heacock) May 6, 2025
Ernst wasn’t always the ra-ra guy but he was always present…loved his job and loved the players…I know that I will always appreciate him for putting a smile on my face whenever he told me to “play better” 😂…I was blessed to have been able to know you! Love ya Ernst❤️ https://t.co/LPquvxLPKA
— Rocco Becht (@RoccoBecht) May 6, 2025
Alex loved the Cyclones (and White Sox) more than anyone, embodied what it means to be an Iowa Stater, and wanted nothing more than to help any person he could, in any way he could. https://t.co/2GpFC6jMlD
— Derek Hoodjer (@DerekHoodjer) May 6, 2025
I’m at a loss for words hearing of the passing of a good friend. I wish everyone in this industry was like Alex because of how kind & hardworking he was each day. He was a staple of Iowa State Football & someone I valued greatly during my time there. He will be incredibly missed. https://t.co/iOe4qWmVVs
— Kyle Kempt (@CoachKyleKempt) May 6, 2025
Tragic. Will be odd not seeing Alex around like we all have for the last few decades. 🙏 to all impacted. https://t.co/aQy8hMYTQm
— Chris Williams (@ChrisMWilliams) May 6, 2025
Absolutley devastating. The most selfless person who showed up everyday with a smile on his face willing to help regardless of any outside circumstance. A true joy to be around and a great friend. You’ll be undoubtedly missed Ernsty. https://t.co/nrR0e5a6pw
— Jace Heacock (@CoachHeacock) May 6, 2025
Alex was such a great guy. What a tragic loss for ISU — and the world. Love and 🙏 to his family. https://t.co/NgeoPf76GK
— Rob Gray (@ROBWGRAY) May 6, 2025
RIP Alex and prayers to him and his loved ones. Cyclone forever 🕊️❤️ https://t.co/dNGTF6aZSO
— Marchie Murdock (@CoachMurdock2) May 6, 2025
Grant Mahoney: We lost a great one, way way wayy too soon. @alex_ernst’s energy was contagious and was always in a good mood. The world would be a better place if there were more Alex Ernst’s in it
A man behind the scenes, making it happen. There was not one time in the building where he didn’t come over and say hello – not a single time. He was very fond of his family, and always beamed about being a proud uncle. He is part of the FB family I know, and will miss. 🌪🚨🕊️ https://t.co/0jfzjybXY2
— Doug (@dhicks433) May 6, 2025
— ROB GRAY (@ROBWGRAY) May 6, 2025
