University of Northern Iowa Homepage Stories & News

UNI student Isaac Campbell

Public art sparks personal transformation for UNI grad

Growing up in Ottumwa, Isaac Campbell never imagined he’d get the opportunity to work on projects for national art galleries abroad, or work alongside a world-renowned French artist at the Louvre in Paris. But at UNI, he gained the skills and made the connections to gain access to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities — and develop lifelong passions.

Vaccine

Why I Got Vaccinated at UNI

More than 1,000 students, faculty and staff have been vaccinated on campus in the last few weeks. InsideUNI asked a few who become fully vaccinated this week why they did it. 

 

UNI student portrait

Summer Williams

Sophomore psychology major

UNI campus

Seniors reflect on challenges, lessons of unprecedented year

This year's UNI graduates have the opportunity to collect their diplomas in person for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In their own words, two graduating seniors share what they've learned after a year of unprecedented challenges — and unexpected opportunities.


UNI student portrait on campus

UNI diploma

Meet the next generation of Panther grads

Our graduating seniors continued to impress with their academic brilliance, strong relationships with faculty and other students, and wide variety of out-of-class experiences to create a strong foundation for their future. These are but a few of our promising Class of Spring 2021 graduates:

UNI graduate Ayah Al-DuraziName: Ayah Al-Durazi

Hometown: Waterloo, Iowa

Major: Political Science

UNI campus

UNI's George Floyd Fund aims to be a catalyst for change

A gift from Robert and Annette Morden, both two-time graduates of UNI, supports campus initiatives that promote cultural acceptance, collaboration, awareness and education. Two new projects – a student-driven film from the theater department and an art project about Indigenous land rights – are underway with help from the fund.

United Way, UNI Center for Educational Transformation and Waterloo Schools partner on trauma-informed project

The everyday demands of school life can be difficult for many students – but some carry more than a backpack full of books when they show up for class each day. 

A student studies on UNI campus.

How to survive finals week: Study spot edition

Finals week is just around the corner, but warmer weather and a network of outdoor wifi access points mean students can study nearly anywhere on campus. 

InsideUNI asked students (finals week veterans all) for their favorite campus study spots. If you need more than just a great study spot, remember help is also available through the Learning Center and the Counseling Center

Nick Rafanello

UNI names new executive director for Housing & Dining

After a national search, the University of Northern Iowa has named Nick Rafanello executive director of Housing & Dining at UNI. He will begin his new role on May 1.

“With a rich history of building collaborative working relationships and effective community building in residential environments, Nick brings a broad level of expertise to the position,” said Michael Hager, UNI senior vice president of finance and operations. “Housing & Dining operations have been steadily improving and Nick is well positioned to keep the positive trajectory of helping students succeed.”

The 2021 Lux Service Award winners

Lux award winners leaving a legacy at UNI

The pandemic made this past academic year one unlike any other for University of Northern Iowa students.

But those challenges didn’t stop students from making an impact on campus.

The Lux Service Award is the most prestigious award given to graduating senior students each academic year to acknowledge the culmination of their overall involvement. Recipients consistently go above and beyond, leaving a lasting legacy upon graduation. 

This year, seniors Ayah Al-Durazi, Cassie Hendrix and Zoella Sneed were recognized with the award.