Alumni Association Stories & News

GOLD & Bold

UNI announces 2026 GOLD & Bold award recipients

The University of Northern Iowa Alumni Association has named DaQuan Campbell and Heather Knar as the recipients of the 2026 GOLD & Bold awards.
A photo of Evan Seuren standing in front of the Seattle skyline with the Space Needle in the background.

From UNI to Amazon, Evan Seuren leveraged UNI to turn creativity into a career

Evan Seuren turned his creative instincts into a career at Amazon Ads. From digital marketing competitions and student leadership at UNI to leading enterprise advertising strategy for brands like T-Mobile, Pokémon and Snapchat, Seuren’s story shows how hands-on experience can open big doors.
Katie Seavey

Creating a welcoming place to explore

Katie Seavey's ('24, Endorsement) passion about helping students to feel like reading belongs to them came through as a teacher librarian at a Pleasant Valley elementary school.
Best Colleges U.S. News & World Report Regional Universities - Midwest 2027

UNI ranked No. 1 in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report

For the first time, the University of Northern Iowa has earned the distinction of being named the No. 1 public regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report.
Sarah Marston teaching international elementary students

Caring for each individual

While at UNI, Sarah Marston discovered passion for learning about other cultures and building community. This early interest in connection and inclusion eventually led to a focus on special and inclusive education, celebrating learning and collaboration.
UNI campus

UNI receives approval for Chuck and Barbara Grassley Center focused on public engagement, civic learning and archival stewardship

The new center will honor the legacy of Chuck and Barbara Grassley while expanding opportunities for civic learning, scholarship and public engagement
Inside the bellfry of the UNI Campanile

New digital exhibit opens the doors to UNI’s Campanile

A new digital exhibit now lets website visitors explore the historic UNI Campanile from perspectives they may never have seen before.
An image of a document that says State of Iowa executive department with language from a proclamation

Governor proclaims Sept. 6 University of Northern Iowa Sesquicentennial Day

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has proclaimed Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, as University of Northern Iowa Sesquicentennial Day in recognition of the university’s 150th anniversary.
President Nook speaking at podium at sesquicentennial event

University of Northern Iowa’s 150th anniversary arrives Sept. 6

UNI will formally recognize the sesquicentennial milestone later this month, with a day of celebrations honoring the university’s 150-year history and its tradition of public service.
The Schmidt Brothers performing live

The Schmidt Brothers return home for the 2026 UNI Homecoming Bash

For the Schmidt Brothers, performing at this year’s UNI Homecoming Bash isn’t just another stop on their busiest touring schedule yet — it’s a return to the campus all three brothers once called home.