Noreen Hermansen

Through more than half a century of impact, Noreen Hermansen is one of the most prolific fundraisers in UNI history, helping secure millions of dollars for scholarships, academic programs and student experiences. 

Her efforts played a major role in the construction of some of UNI’s most iconic facilities, including the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center and McLeod Center, as well as renovations to several historic campus buildings.

“Noreen Hermansen’s name is synonymous with the University of Northern Iowa,” said Bill Calhoun, retired vice president for University Advancement. “In her many positions at UNI, Noreen’s impact on past, current and future generations of students has been broad and deep.” 

Her relationship with UNI began as a student in the late 1960s. She worked as a residence hall coordinator while completing her master’s degree in education counseling. After graduating, Hermansen joined UNI’s Admissions Office, where she spent years traveling throughout Iowa and educating prospective students about the opportunities available at UNI. 

She became one of UNI’s most effective advocates, helping students envision themselves at UNI and influencing decisions that would shape the rest of their lives. 

Her work eventually expanded to include alumni engagement, where she served as president of the UNI Alumni Association and became a critical link between the campus and more than 100,000 graduates, seeing many alumni return to campus in professional roles.

“You have a sense of connection after being here,” she said in 2004. “UNI is a great place to come back to.”

Her ability to foster that connection became one of her defining strengths. Alumni, donors and supporters consistently have cited her warmth and authenticity as reasons they remain engaged with UNI.

“The number of people across the world that she has touched and brought into the UNI family is immeasurable,” said Jan Bitter, former chair of the UNI Foundation Board of Trustees and longtime friend. “Professionally and personally, with humility, integrity, empathy and kindness, she has touched us all.”

One of her most memorable fundraising campaigns centered on the Gallagher Bluedorn, having joined an ambitious effort to secure faculty and staff support for the campaign.

“We visited every single UNI faculty and staff member work group in every nook and cranny of the campus,” she said. 

Armed with decorated cookies from the UNI Bakery and a passionate call for support, they met employees during breaks, including third-shift workers in the middle of the night. Their efforts resulted in more than $1 million in faculty and staff contributions toward the campaign.

During the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration, Hermansen reflected on the university’s momentum during the late 20th century with a single word:

“Without a doubt, the word is energy,” she said. “While the world awaited a new millennium, the University of Northern Iowa was moving forward with energy and enthusiasm.”

Yet for Hermansen, UNI’s greatest strength has always been its people and traditions.

“Of course, Panther Pride has to be the top tradition,” she said. “It is more than an affinity for athletics; it is a feeling of accomplishment for the education and opportunities the alumni experienced as students.”