Now & Then
Now & Then
Brian Gabel, '02
President of the UNI Alumni Association
2024-present
What word best captures UNI’s spirit during your presidency?
I’d choose “momentum.” Today, UNI alumni are not only proud of their roots, they’re actively driving the university forward. Alumni continue to give generously, volunteer their time and expertise, lead engagement efforts, and serve as visible champions of the Panther community. There’s a real energy from our alumni that keep UNI moving into the future.
What changes in UNI or higher education stand out most from your era?
The pace of change has accelerated dramatically. Today, UNI is innovating not only in technology but in how we engage alumni and students. Over time, digital tools transformed how alumni connect — creating virtual networking, mentoring, webinars and online giving opportunities that allow alumni to stay involved regardless of location.
What traditions or values do you hope endure another 25 years?
For me, it’s the tradition of Purple Pride. Whether it’s cheering on the Panthers or supporting students, that pride unites us. I hope future alumni continue to carry that spirit forward, keeping UNI’s values of service, excellence and community alive. And with over 1,500 Traditions Keepers, we’re in good hands to keep all of the amazing UNI traditions going!
Noreen Hermansen, '71
Former president of the UNI Alumni Association
1988-2002
What word best captures UNI’s spirit during your presidency?
Without a doubt the word is “energy.” While the world awaited a new millennium, the University of Northern Iowa was moving forward with energy and enthusiasm. By 2000, the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center was set to open that April, plans were underway for the McLeod Center and enrollment was more than 13,500 students. Campus morale, both positive and contagious, impacted the entire Cedar Valley community.
What changes in UNI or higher education stand out most from your era?
The arrival of broadband technology in the mid-90s allowed us to communicate with alumni and friends of UNI more efficiently and effectively. Perhaps most important is that the technology advances challenged us to be open to new ideas as well as more forward in our thinking.
What traditions or values do you hope endure another 25 years?
Of course, Panther Pride has to be the top tradition. It is more than an affinity for athletics; it is a feeling of accomplishment for the education and opportunities the alumni experienced as students. It is valuing their UNI degree and what it has meant to them both personally and professionally. It is remembering the friendships along with age old traditions of Homecoming events and even shaking the keys at football games.
