UNI 150 Stories & News

Students at UNI Commencement

UNI celebrates nearly 1,500 graduates at spring commencement ceremonies

90% percent of the students are Iowa residents, representing 93 counties in the state. Nearly a third identify themselves as first-generation college graduates.
People in purple for UNI Homecoming Parade

UNI announces 2026 Homecoming theme “The Future is Purple”

Panthers near and far will gather in Cedar Falls this October to celebrate “The Future is Purple” for the University of Northern Iowa Homecoming.
Headshot of Patricia Geadelmann.

Patricia Geadelmann

She was the external face of UNI, assisting four presidents and helping to secure funding for world-class facilities and programs that continue to elevate the university.
1995, Coach Mark Farley talking to football players during a game.

Mark Farley

The “walk-on from Waukon” never looked back, becoming the winningest coach in the Missouri Valley Football Conference's history.
Juanita Wright in 1994 sitting at her office desk.

Juanita Wright

Once one of only five Latinx students, Juanita Wright later built programs that would open the door to a UNI degree to thousands who followed.
Nick Nurse with Coach of the Year trophy.

Nick Nurse

A story of tireless work and Panther Pride carried all the way to basketball’s most sought-after trophy.
Headshot of Pernell Cezar.

Pernell Cezar

Through impactful leadership and a strong work ethic ignited at the UNI, he grew his business from his garage into the first Black-owned coffee company with national distribution.
AJ Green playing for the UNI Panthers.

AJ Green

From local courts in Cedar Falls to the McLeod Center and beyond… The first UNI Panther to play in the highest levels of the NBA.
UNI Together

UNI launches “UNI Together” one-minute video competition

Got a knack for short videos? The University of Northern Iowa is inviting students, alumni, faculty and staff to share UNI stories through a new creative competition called “UNI Together.”
Photo of Mickye Johnson standing against a stair railing.

Mickye Johnson

For more than 30 years, he empowered first-generation and low-income students to pursue higher education and transform their futures.