Family, Aging & Counseling Stories & News

Student shares her experience in Timeless Journeys with an original song.

Timeless Journeys: How UNI students used historic photos to connect with dementia patients

Theatre students at UNI joined forces with the gerontology department to create meaningful connections with community members living with dementia.
Men's Sheds participants cleaning up litter outside

UNI professor starts first-of-its-kind health initiative in Iowa for retired men

Melinda Heinz, a University of Northern Iowa assistant professor of gerontology, is improving the quality of life of local men, especially those who have retired, with Men's Sheds, an initiative that is the first of its kind in Iowa. 
Judy Nissen

A Legacy in Learning

Judy Nissen, ’63, reflects on her lifelong commitment to education and the important role faculty play in enriching student learning and academic growth.
Jake Schaefer

Renewing workplace culture

Jake Schaefer, ’01, ’08, builds on his UNI education to transform mental health counseling and leadership coaching, helping individuals and organizations thrive.
illustration of students looking into the horizon with books

Shaping Tomorrow

Innovating departments, programs and curriculum to make an immediate impact in Iowa and beyond.
Empowerment in Action: Culture Change through Dementia Education

UNI Dementia Simulation House planning dementia education conference

The Dementia Simulation House at the University of Northern Iowa is proud to announce the upcoming Empowerment in Action: Culture Change through Dementia Education conference, taking place on Wednesday, June 11 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cedar Falls from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Bill Henninger

UNI professor Bill Henninger receives Fulbright U.S. Scholar award for spring 2025

Through an International Administrators Grant, Henninger will participate in a two-week group seminar with representatives from universities, private sector agencies and organizations, and select government agencies in Taiwan
Bill Henninger with signed memorandum of understanding

UNI forms 3+1 family services program with university in Kosovo

The University of Northern Iowa’s close relationship with the people and academic institutions of Kosovo continues to strengthen and expand.
Bill Henninger and Elaine Eshbaugh

UNI professor’s selfless act of organ donation saves a life

Bill Henninger saw an opportunity to help a stranger in need and made the decision to donate his kidney, potentially saving their life.
Students in the kitchen in the Dementia Simulation House

UNI Dementia Simulation House marks two-year anniversary

Two mark the two-year anniversary of the house, a UNI student reflects on her experiences with the Dementia Simulation House.