UNI 150 Stories & News

Judith Harrington sitting.

Judith Harrington

During her tenure in the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, she not only left a lasting impact on students but also served as chair of the faculty, reshaping faculty governance and advancing equity for women.
Marvin Carr at his UNI graduation ceremony.

Marvin Carr

While it’s not uncommon to begin a bachelor’s degree later in life, this U.S. Navy veteran fully immersed himself in the college experience – living in the dorms, working an on-campus job and being involved in several student organizations.
Headshot of Robert J. Hibbs

Robert J. Hibbs

A 23-year-old graduate from the State College of Iowa, he made the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country in the Vietnam War.
Headshot of Judy Finkelstein.

Judy Finkelstein

For more than five decades, she helped reshape how young children are taught — and how teachers learn to teach them — leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence classrooms across Iowa.
Day of Service volunteers in hard hats

UNI Day of Service unites 2,200+ volunteers across Cedar Valley

As part of its 150th anniversary celebration, the University of Northern Iowa, in partnership with the Volunteer Center of Cedar Valley, came together for a UNI Day of Service on Wednesday, April 8.
Iowa legislature and UNI leadership

Iowa Legislature recognizes 150 years of UNI

Nearly 150 years to the day after the legislation establishing UNI took effect, the Iowa Legislature formally recognized the University of Northern Iowa sesquicentennial milestone on Wednesday, March 25 with resolutions read in both chambers. 
Headshot of Fred Abraham.

Fred Abraham

A cornerstone of UNI’s economics program, Fred “F.” Abraham spent decades making complex ideas engaging and accessible. Reaching more than 14,000 students, he shaped generations of thinkers through teaching and mentorship.
Olivia Chambers

Olivia Chambers

A double major and Honors student, she ascended to the highest level of swimming competition at the 2024 Paralympic Games.
Headshot of Moses Willard Bartlett.

Moses Willard Bartlett

He believed the profession of teaching was second to none, which might be why he was hired as the first teacher at the Iowa State Normal School.
Ruth Bluford Anderson lecturing.

Ruth Bluford Anderson

As a Black woman navigating the challenges of the late 1960s, her achievements were built on resilience and a deep commitment to helping others. Without her efforts, UNI’s Department of Social Work would not exist.