Inaugural installation takes shape in downtown Cedar Falls

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The message is simple: Wherever you go, UNI. It’s the focus of a new statewide campaign highlighting the impact of the University of Northern Iowa across the state and beyond. 

More than 90% of UNI students are Iowa residents, and most graduates stay in Iowa after graduation. There are more than 82,000 living alumni throughout the state, with graduates in every county.

“The impact of University of Northern Iowa graduates reaches every corner of the state and touches every sector of public life,” said UNI president Mark Nook. “UNI alumni are leading businesses, serving others and creating jobs. From classrooms and hospitals to farms, boardrooms, construction sites and Main Streets, wherever you go, UNI is there.”

Over time, Iowans can expect to see large, purple “Wherever You Go, UNI” installations on large building walls, barns, silos, grain bins and other highly visible locations across the state, with a goal to place a sign in every county. 

The campaign launches in Cedar Falls, with the inaugural sign installed on the side of the popular downtown coffee shop Cup of Joe, located at the intersection of Main Street and First Street.

“It’s fitting and I’m proud that Cedar Falls serves as the launching point for this campaign,” said Cedar Falls mayor Danny Laudick, a 2013 UNI graduate. “The University of Northern Iowa is part of the fabric of this community, and wherever you go, there are UNI graduates driving innovation, volunteering and making a difference in communities and industries across Iowa.”

“I am grateful to be a part of this campaign that enhances UNI's visibility downtown. Both our downtown district and the university are wonderful assets to our Cedar Falls community. We welcome all to enjoy!” said business owner Dawn Wilson, who has been part of Cup of Joe for nearly its entire 30-year history. The coffee shop has long been a gathering place for UNI students, families and community members. She’s owned the business for about 20 years, and her husband Aaron is a UNI professor. 

UNI is seeking additional high-visibility locations across Iowa to expand the campaign, particularly sites along busy highways, major roadways and downtown districts. Interested property owners can learn more about the project and submit locations for consideration at whereveryougo.uni.edu.