Jedel Family Foundation Collection

Harrison Jedel was born on November 20, 1924, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Mary Cohen and Sylvan Jedel. Mr. Jedel was in the United States Army and served in World War II. Upon graduation from the University of Oklahoma, he joined his grandfather's scrap metal business, I.J. Cohen Company. He built his career in that family business and following his uncle's death became one of the company's largest shareholders.

From a very young age, Mr. Jedel had a passion for art and became an avid collector. Over his life, he befriended many emerging and well-known artists. He became a supporter of the Nerman Museum shortly after its opening in 2007. In 2011, Mr. Jedel established a trust to support cancer research, education, and the arts. Mr. Jedel passed away in 2016 at the age of 91. Today, five trustees lead the Jedel Family Foundation: Mark Eib, Don Hubbs, Andy Kugler, Marti Oppenheimer, and Jeff Weinberg. We thank them for their commitment to the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art at Johnson County Community College in memory of Mr. Jedel and his passion for art.