Faculty Stories & News

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. 
Dr. Randall Harlow, professor of organ and music theory at UNI.

UNI School of Music faculty artist Randall Harlow releases new album

Dr. Randall Harlow, professor of organ and music theory, recently released a new album titled "HOLY!" A celebration of the 25th anniversary of UNI's Helmuth Wolff organ in Jebe Hall.
Begeman Hall

UNI Physics leads $1 million NSF grant to advance quantum research

The University of Northern Iowa Department of Physics has been awarded a $340,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to lead a collaborative research project exploring the magnetic properties of advanced materials with potential applications in quantum technologies.
UNI Textbook Equity Mini-Grant Program

Rod Library offers mini-grants to support open educational resources

Rod Library seeks instructors/teams to adopt or adapt free course materials licensed for reuse.  Funds compensate instructors and support transitioning a course from a commercial text to free materials. Up to $1,500 per project. Deadline October 10 (noon).
UNI campus in the summer

UNI faculty win at inaugural Iowa Open Educational Resources Awards

Six UNI faculty were honored at the inaugural Iowa Open Educational Resources (OER) Awards, which recognizes instructors across the state who have created or adopted OER in innovative ways.
Allison Rank

UNI names Allison Rank as inaugural director of the Center for Civic Education

As director of the Center for Civic Education at UNI, Allison Rank will oversee the planning and implementation of the center’s activities, foster relationships with important stakeholders, work to secure grants and lead strategic planning for the center.
Researchers

UNI recognizes new “Research” designation by Carnegie Foundation

UNI Recognizes New “Research” Designation by Carnegie Foundation which is a testament to UNI's commitment to advancing research and fostering innovation, opening up exciting possibilities for our campus and the broader community.
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 Harwood blowing glass

From beakers to blown glass: UNI chemistry professor showcases art

Chemistry department head Bill Harwood is adding artist to his resume, as he has provided glass-blown artwork for a new exhibit at the UNI Gallery of Art.
A graphic showing 150 years Est. 1876 to commemorate the UNI sesquicentennial

Funding available for UNI 150th courses or class projects

We are pleased to announce a stipend opportunity ($750 + an expense budget) for special classes or course projects that align with the goals of UNI’s upcoming 150th-anniversary commemoration.