Jalel Aossey, 1997

Jalel is president of Islamic Services of America (ISA) and its sister Canadian company, Halal Montreal Certification Authority. The two companies certify that food and other products adhere to Islamic law and are thus permissible for consumption or use by Muslims. Halal is an Arabic word that translates as “permissible.” The companies serve clients throughout North America and in many foreign countries.

ISA, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was founded in 1975 by Jalel’s father, Bill (Cornell 1963), to help foster the growth of Islamic communities throughout the United States at a time when education and information on the Islamic faith was a challenge to obtain. As awareness of the dietary needs for Muslims increased, ISA became more involved in halal product certification and international relations.

Jalel grew up in Cedar Rapids. At Cornell, he majored in international business and physical fitness. He was on the football team for four years and was a defensive lineman on the Rams’ Midwest Conference championship team in 1995. He was active in the business interest group, Beta Omicron, and other student organizations and was commencement speaker for his graduating class.

While in college, he became a personal trainer certified by the American Council on Exercise and started his own business training families and individuals.

“The balance between classroom and on-campus activities prepared me for what it takes to be successful in my business and personal life,” Jalel wrote. He has remained involved with the college by participating in campus events, counseling prospective students, and speaking on campus. He and his father co-sponsor an endowed fund to enhance experiential learning for Cornell students.

Jalel and his wife, Surriah, have five children. They live in Canton, Michigan.