Welcome Back - 2015
Dear UNI Family,
Welcome back, students, faculty and staff!
It's great to have you back on campus. And for those of you who are new to UNI, I'd like to express a warm welcome from the entire Panther family. I know it's going to be a great year!
For all students, faculty and staff, you bring a vibrant sense of curiosity and excitement that is appreciated by all. At UNI, we place a 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.
Students, many of you have gotten off to a fast start this week by participating in the UNI Now experience. You've settled in your residence halls, made new friends during games, picnics and movie nights, and are already experiencing how great it is to be a Panther.
There will continue to be a variety of exciting activities to participate in this semester. On Saturday, September 12th, Jay Leno will perform at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. Tickets are still available, so give the box office a call to get in on what is sure to be a great night of comedy.
The Panther football team will kick off the 2015 season when they travel to Ames on Saturday, September 5th, to take on the Iowa State Cyclones. Tickets are still available, so grab some friends, put on your purple and gold and make the journey west to cheer on our Panthers.
It will be a fairytale week October 12th-18th as UNI celebrates this year's Homecoming with the theme Once Upon a Time. In addition to our traditional events -- the pep rally, football game, campaniling and parade -- there will be a new event: a student, faculty and staff picnic. Check out the Homecoming website, and watch for details as they become available.
In addition to these special events, remember to stop by the Student Involvement Center in Maucker Union to learn about the more than 300 student organizations that are available to you. Also, as the semester progresses, think about doing an internship or studying abroad. Employers and graduate schools are looking for applicants with hands-on experience who can think critically and communicate effectively. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities!
Each year, UNI continues to provide an academically challenging, yet fun, experience for students. That is exactly why UNI is "the right fit." We truly are.
Have a great year, everyone. I look forward to seeing you around campus.
Purple for Life!
Bill Ruud
President