Bio

Joseph C. Spallina came to the United States as a teenager with his family from Italy, and at the time of his arrival knew no English.  Encouraged by a high school coach to play football and earn his degree, Spallina came to Missouri Valley College in 1973, and made his mark athletically on the football team.  He played during one of the most successful stretches in program-history, from 1973-1977, playing on four Heart of America Athletic Conference championship teams and the 1974 National runner-up team.  He was a four-year letterman, impacting the team at the kicker position.  Spallina received all-conference selections during his time with the football team.  In addition to playing football, Spallina was also a member of the college’s tennis team for two years, and competed on the track and field team for one season. 

During his time at Missouri Valley, Spallina was a member of the Beta Gama chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity and was a member of the student senate.  He graduated in 1977 with a bachelor of science degree in business administration.  He later received is master of science degree in human resources and labor relations from the New York Institute of Technology.  He worked on his master’s degree while working as a driver for United Parcel Service.

Spallina spent 34 years working for UPS, starting in 1978, and retiring after 34 years in 2012.  During his time with UPS, Spallina contributed to the company’s growth and worldwide expansion by managing UPS affiliate companies in the US and in Europe.

Spallina is married to Mary Frances Spallina, whom he met while at Missouri Valley.  Spallina and his wife raised two daughters, and now have four grandchildren.  Spallina credits Ken Gibler, Grover C. Redford, Dr. Nelson and many of his fraternity brothers as those who greatly influenced him during his time at Missouri Valley.