University of Northern Iowa Homepage Stories & News

Map of Iowa with community colleges marked

UNI’s partnership with Iowa community colleges experiences rapid second-year growth

Since the partnership was first announced in summer of 2022, the UNI at Iowa Community Colleges (UNI@IACC) initiative has grown by 68% in just one year. 
Family walking toward Admissions Welcome Center on UNI campus

Exploring campuses together: Making the most of college visit days with your teen

Campus visits are a crucial part of the college exploration process. Here are some tips to help get the most out of the experience with your teen.
Zach Lillquist teaching students at a table in a classroom

Zach Lillquist chronicles the life of a UNI-educated teacher on TikTok

Zach Lillquist is a UNI-educated teacher who has amassed an impressive 110,000+ followers on TikTok where he showcases the highs and lows of the profession.
Kellen, Dylan, Karly and Marcus Schneeberger

UNI tradition runs deep for Schneeberger family of educators

For students who attend the Clinton School District, chances are they’ve had, or will have, at least one of four UNI-educated siblings as a teacher. 
Student at Commencement shaking hands with President Nook

UNI offers Free Application Week, Oct. 15-20

With high school seniors and transfer students in the thick of college application season, UNI is proud to offer Free Application Week on Oct. 15-20.
Justin Adams in a cowboy hat

Musician Justin Adams returning home to Panther Country

Country musician and UNI alum Justin Adams is excited to bring his high-energy honky tonk cowboy country music to UNI campus for Homecoming 2023.
Student on laptop

FAFSA changes will make things easier for students and families

You may have noticed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) did not open on Oct. 1 this year. It's just one of many FAFSA changes this year.
Susan Rider playing trumpet in front of the Washington Monument

From Russell Hall to the White House, armed with a trumpet

As a professional musician who got her start at UNI’s School of Music, Master Gunnery Sgt. Susan Rider uses her musical talents to hail the red, white and blue every day
Kate Mostek holding a firework in a store

Fireworks obsession sparks chemistry passion for UNI student

When the average person looks at a fireworks display, they probably aren’t thinking of the chemistry concepts behind the fiery spectacle. But that’s exactly what UNI senior chemistry major Kate Mostek does. Since her parents run a fireworks business, she has extensive knowledge of what it takes to put on an impressive show.

“Even the colors of fireworks are really chemistry dependent,” she explained. “Each color is made out of a different metal salt, and then you can brighten and dull the colors with different combinations.”

Fowler family posing with President Nook with first, second and third generation Panther signs

UNI recognizes Forever Families during Family Weekend

The University of Northern Iowa has named the Fowler family of Urbandale and the Hakes family of Mason City Forever Families, recognizing their commitment to UNI.