Welcome back

Dear UNI Students, Faculty and Staff,

I am excited to welcome you to the beginning of a new academic year at the University of Northern Iowa! This is my first semester at UNI, and what a great time to be a Panther! I am pleased to share with you some of the new opportunities on campus, and I encourage you to experience all the Cedar Valley has to offer.

This summer the university completed several projects on campus, including the second phase of Panther Village, which provides apartment-style living, and renovations to Redeker Center, which now includes computer labs and study lounges. Everyone will enjoy the Rod Library upgrades that include innovative learning spaces with desktops and laptops for multimedia creation and editing. Also, be sure to try out the new purple and gold Adirondack chairs located throughout campus for everyone’s use.

I extend a special welcome to all new students, faculty and staff! You bring a vibrant sense of curiosity and excitement that is appreciated by all. At UNI, we place high value on education that encourages a diversity of ideas and increases students’ depth of intellectual inquiry and discovery. We are proud of the rigor and integrity of our academic programs.

I recommend that you discover new opportunities, challenge yourself and your students, and become engaged with the campus and local community. I encourage all students to stop by the Student Involvement Center in Maucker Union to learn about the more than 250 student organizations and the multitude of leadership programs that are available.

Also, plan to attend events in the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, UNI-Dome and McLeod Center. Support our student performances and cheer on your Panther athletic teams! You can even share your Panther Pride with others through our Panther Push program in Admissions (please call Jenny Connolly for details: 319-273-2281).

I am thrilled to begin this academic year!

Purple for life!

Bill Ruud
President