The University of Northern Iowa will celebrate its 150th anniversary during this year’s UNI Day at the Capitol, according to a March 24 announcement. The event will include a resolution read in both chambers of the Iowa Legislature on March 25, marking nearly 150 years since the legislation establishing UNI became law.
UNI Day at the Capitol is an annual event that allows students and staff to highlight how the university impacts communities across Iowa. This year’s milestone adds historical significance as participants reflect on UNI’s contributions over a century and a half.
Several initiatives and departments are set to participate in the March 25 event. Applied Engineering will showcase hands-on learning experiences and partnerships with industry that have led to high career placement rates. Business and Community Services plans to present its tailored economic development assistance offered across all of Iowa’s counties. The Center for Civic Education aims to promote civic learning among students, while international programs will highlight UNI’s global reach by bringing students from more than fifty countries.
Other features include information about Neighboring State Rate, which provides in-state tuition for new students from states bordering Iowa, as well as presentations by NISG, UNI’s central student governing body. Nursing at UNI will demonstrate its simulation labs for various healthcare settings within renovated facilities. Programs like UNI@IACC and online offerings create pathways from community colleges into high-demand bachelor’s degrees.
The Department of Political Science prepares graduates for roles in criminal justice, public administration, and political science fields through programs including an online Master of Public Policy degree. Teacher Education representatives are expected to discuss new majors such as Special and Inclusive Education along with flexible elementary education degree options available both on campus and online. Wilson College of Business plans to showcase its accounting and finance programs noted for preparing graduates who secure jobs promptly after graduation.
This sesquicentennial celebration is seen as an opportunity not only to honor UNI’s past but also spotlight ongoing efforts that serve Iowans statewide.
