The University of Northern Iowa announced on April 14 the recipients of its 2026 Lux Service Award, which is the highest honor given by the Division of Student Life to graduating seniors for exceptional service. The announcement was made during the university’s annual Student Leadership Awards ceremony.
The award highlights students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy on campus. To be eligible, students must have held leadership roles in at least two student organizations.
Lane Kruger, majoring in marketing management and interactive digital studies with an entrepreneurship minor, has participated actively in many organizations within the Wilson College of Business. Kruger contributed by recruiting prospective business students through campus tours and giving talks to high school students about entrepreneurship. He also represented the Wilson College of Business as part of an academic and cultural business delegation to Dianji University in Shanghai, China. “More than anything, I hope my lasting impression is a culture where students feel empowered to step up, support each other and take ownership of the spaces they are part of,” said Kruger. “If future students walk into these organizations and feel welcomed, motivated, and confident enough to lead, then I know the impact of my time at UNI will continue well beyond me.”
Anya Lovstuen, who majors in social work with minors in mental health, family studies and child welfare, has shown her leadership through involvement with various student groups and on-campus jobs. Lovstuen played on the Women’s Rugby Team while recruiting new members as a Cat Crew leader and fostering kindness among participants. She volunteered for several local organizations including UNI’s Panther Pantry, Salvation Army and Black Hawk County Health and Human Services. “I hope that all of the connections and communities I had a part in helping build continue to provide support to members of the UNI community,” she said.
The Lux Service Award was one among several honors presented at this year’s Student Leadership Awards ceremony. More information about all award recipients can be found at studentleadershipawards.uni.edu.
