Campus & Community Stories & News

Joe and Kristin Wakeman next to scarecrow, tractor tire and pumpkin

Growing connection and Panther Pride in Story County

In the heart of Story County, Iowa, patrons have been coming to Berry Patch Farm in Nevada for more than 50 years to pick their own fresh prodcue. Owners Joe and Kristin Wakeman both attended UNI and frequently connect with visitors on Panther Pride.
Teen boy with his mom talking with staff member at Panther Visit Day

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

Campus visits are a crucial part of the college decision-making process. Here are some tips for how to prepare for a college visit!
Academic advisor works with student in her office

How academic advisors help students at UNI

It's registration season for Panthers, which means it's the perfect time to schedule a meeting with your academic advisor at the University of Northern Iowa.
Return to UNI Program Participant Jess Betts Sits at Desk in Her Office

How the ‘Return to UNI’ program helped Jess Betts finish what she started

UNI Brand & Licensing Manager Jess Betts left graduate school just one class short of completing her master's degree. More than a decade later, the Return to UNI initiative allowed her to come back and graduate after taking one online course. Jess encourages former Panthers to reach out and finish what they started at return.uni.edu.
Cheryl and Mark Nook on UNI campus

UNI President Mark Nook to retire at conclusion of current academic year

Mark Nook will continue to serve until the 12th president of the University of Northern Iowa begins their service.
Students laughing as they take a selfie in the UNI TV spot

“Can’t wait to see where you go:” A father’s voicemail anchors new UNI commercial

Those words close a father’s voicemail to his college-aged student in the University of Northern Iowa’s new 30-second commercial, which will begin airing soon on Iowa television stations and streaming platforms such as Hulu and YouTube.
Halloween House

UNI to host 2026 “Halloween House” for children and families

University of Northern Iowa students will be performing Halloween-themed science demonstrations and supervising hands-on activities at this family-friendly event.
Students reveal the total donations for the Our Tomorrow campaign

UNI’s Our Tomorrow campaign raises record $342.8 million

Since 2018 when the University of Northern Iowa quietly launched Our Tomorrow: The Campaign for UNI, more than 34,000 donors have helped to expand opportunities for students, strengthen programs and build lasting support for UNI’s future.
Fairview Cemetery

Students explore UNI history through tours at Cedar Falls cemetery

One group of UNI students is learning about the past of the university they call home. For the fall semester, the students planned an educational public tour of Fairview Cemetery in Cedar Falls where many early presidents, original faculty members and other key figures in UNI’s 150-year history are laid to rest.
7 reasons why

7 reasons why UNI is ranked #1 Public University in the Midwest

You’ve probably heard the great news by now: UNI has been ranked the No. 1 public regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Here's why!