College of Business Stories & News

Photo of Russel and Laurie with giant check

University of Northern Iowa alum wins first place and $40,000 at entrepreneurial venture competition

Russel Karim, a 2015 graduate of the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), won first place and a $40,000 prize at the 18th annual John Pappajohn Iowa Entrepreneurial Venture Competition. Karim’s business, Dhakai, enables eCommerce and promotional apparel brands to move from idea to final delivered products ethically, sustainably and cost-effectively through a single technology platform.
Japan Flag

Country-Western Song Makes No Sense In Japan

Johnny Paycheck’s song, “Take This Job and Shove It,” expresses a fundamental human right in the United States. Many workers fantasize about the day they can use Paycheck’s song title in confronting their boss. Yes, it is a rude and crude sentiment, but it is an American right.
Virtual Breakfast Series - August 24, 8-10 a.m. The Wells Blue Bunny Story - Family businesses often reach a crossroad: sell or not? Hear the Wells Blue Bunny Journey from Mike Wells himself on Aug. 24

Virtual Breakfast Series to host Iowa family business Wells Blue Bunny for a panel on their decision to sell

The UNI Family Business Center will offer a conversation about “Wells Blue Bunny: The Story of a Legacy Family Business” on Aug. 24, at 8 a.m. via Zoom. 
Drew Conrad

U.S. Secretary of Labor appoints UNI’s Drew Conrad to federal advisory committee

Drew Conrad, director of the UNI's Institute for Decision Making, has been appointed to the 14-member Workforce Information Advisory Council.
Photo of Dr. Joey Miller

UNI's Marketing and Entrepreneurship Department welcomes Joseph Miller

We’re excited to announce Joseph Miller as the UNI College of Business’ new Head of the Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship. The first thing Miller noticed about the UNI College of Business was the energy. From the moment he arrived on campus, he received a warm welcome and a groundswell of support from students, faculty and staff. He was hooked.
Nina Williams

UNI business alum turned her dream house into full-time career

Waukee may not be the first place that comes to mind for social media influencers — but that's exactly where UNI alum Niña Williams has built her career.
JuanDaniel poses in front of Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel

Students gain valuable AI skills and international experience in France

Artificial intelligence has been making headlines throughout the year, and a study abroad program offered by the UNI College of Business provides students with the opportunity to learn more about this flourishing tool – all while living in France.
Debbie Pongo standing next to UNI representatives

Iowa City student's dedication rewarded with full-ride scholarship to UNI

Debbie Pongo, a recent graduate of Iowa City High School, will attend the University of Northern Iowa on a full-ride scholarship as part of the Noel Scholars program. The scholarship is made possible by the generous gift from Rick (Accounting, ‘90) and Lisa Noel, and covers all expenses including tuition & fees, housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Every year, one recipient is chosen based on their dedication to learning and ability to achieve success despite facing difficult circumstances. The scholarship is renewable for three years.
FBLA students at national conference

University of Northern Iowa's FBLA club named Outstanding Chapter of the Year

The University of Northern Iowa’s collegiate chapter of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) made its mark at the 2023 FBLA National Leadership Conference taking top honors and  winning the prestigious Outstanding Chapter of the Year award.
Scott Burak talks with group of students

Social media account showcasing all things Iowa traces its roots back to UNI

An Iowa-focused social media account showcasing memes, lifestyle, and the overall joys of living in the state has gone viral, garnering widespread attention both online and within Iowa itself. It’s called Iowa Chill, and the brand's story starts here at the University of Northern Iowa.