News Release Archive

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Center for Violence Prevention will host a Victim Service Institute from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the Old Central Ballroom, in Maucker Union on the UNI campus.

The event will feature speakers Roger Canaff and Kristina Korobov. Canaff will speak on "Balancing Victim Services with Threats Posed by Repeat Offenders: Best Practices for Keeping Your Campus Safe" and "Understanding and Working with Counter-Intuitive Victim Behavior." Korobov will speak on the topic "Did Yardley Love Have to Die: College Dating Violence, Institutional Response and Victim Blaming."

Canaff is a practicing attorney who has devoted his legal career to the eradication of violence against women and children. He served in the National Center for the Prosecution of Child Abuse, as part of the National District Attorneys Association, and currently serves on the Board of Directors as president of End Violence Against Women International, an organization that provides training, technical assistance, research and advocacy.

Korobov is a senior attorney for the National Center for the Prosecution of Violence Against Women, a division of the National District Attorneys Association. She has also served as an assistant commonwealth's attorney with the Loudon County Commonwealth's Attorney in Leesburg, Va., and in 2002, she was named Prosecutor of the Year by the Indiana Coalition Against Sexual Assault.

For more information, contact Annette Lynch, director, Center for Violence Prevention at 319-273-3054, annette.lynch@uni.edu or visit www.uni.edu/cvp.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Registration is now open for the management workshop "Superstar Hunt: Finding and Grooming Tomorrow's Leaders" hosted by the University of Northern Iowa's Executive Development Center. The workshop is scheduled 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 11, in the Business and Community Services Building on the UNI campus. The registration deadline is Oct. 4.

During this workshop, instructor Jim Hogan will discuss the role a retiring manager plays in successful succession planning and how managers can assess staff and identify high-performers who will be ready to lead. Participants will develop transition plans that include training employees for new responsibilities, and they will review tools that will help assess, prepare and expedite the implementation of a succession plan.

The workshop cost is $249 per person. UNI Alumni Association members receive a 10-percent discount. Businesses can purchase a consortium membership for $995, which entitles the business to five seats to any of the 2011 management training workshops. Half-day workshops count as a half seat. After the five seats are used, additional seats can be purchased at a discounted rate of $175 per person.

For more information or to register, contact the UNI Executive Development Center at 319-273-5851 or execdev@uni.edu.

The Executive Development Center is a program of Business and Community Services, a division of the UNI College of Business Administration.    

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- An "elevator pitch" is a great way to gain connections in the business world. Elevator pitches are quick summaries of what a business makes or does. Its name reflects the idea that a pitch should last no longer than the average elevator ride. The University of Northern Iowa will hold an elevator pitch competition on Thursday, Sept. 29, at 4 p.m., in Room 33 of the Business & Community Services Building.

Seven students will compete for a chance to advance to the National Elevator Pitch Competition, which will be held in Fort Worth, Texas, on Oct. 27-29.  They will be judged according to the National Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization Elevator Pitch guidelines, which evaluates 20 areas of content and delivery. The UNI competition is sponsored by UNI Entrepreneurs, a student organization. Judges for the competition will be Katherine Cota-Uyar, associate director of the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC), David Deeds, T. Wayne Davis Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Dan Beenken, director of the Small Business Development Center and Laurie Watje, student business incubator manager at the JPEC. Students will have 90 seconds to explain their business idea.

For additional information, contact Laurie Watje of the JPEC, at 319-273-5732 or laurie.watje@uni.edu.

The UNI JPEC, a division of UNI's Business and Community Services, provides a range of innovative educational programs and support services for student entrepreneurs. The center provides expertise in all stages of business planning and development and serves as a vehicle to bring new products and technologies to market. For more information about JPEC at UNI, visit www.jpec.org, call 319-273-JPEC or e-mail jpec@uni.edu

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The Strayer-Wood Theatre will present the Midwest premiere of "Guernica" by Cody Daigle. Productions begin at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 6 to 8 and Oct. 13 to 15 and at 2 p.m., Oct. 9 and 16. "Guernica" will play inside the Strayer-Wood Theatre's Bertha Martin Theatre on the University of Northern Iowa campus.

Before 9-11, there was Guernica. The Spanish town of Guernica was home to a tragic historical event that inspired Picasso to create a masterpiece. "Guernica," the play, follows Eric, an artist who meets a mysterious man who offers him a seductive opportunity: learn the secrets of the painting and break through to something new. Join Eric and his mysterious friends as they explore the creative process and the madness of war while "Guernica" comes to life in this passionate, intellectual drama.

The production is directed by Stephen Taft, associate professor of performance. Costumes were designed by Amy S. Rohrberg, associate professor of design and production; scenery was designed by Mark A. Parrott, assistant professor of theatre design and production. Stephanie Wessels, senior in theatre design and production, designed the lighting; Jessica Williams, junior in theatre arts, designed the hair and make-up. Matthew Vichlach, a junior theatre arts major, is the stage manager.

Playwright Cody Daigle will be available for a talkback following the Friday, Oct. 7 performance. "Guernica" is the first offering of the theatre's 2011-2012 season, "Renewal: Emerging Beyond Struggles," and is presented as part of the university's "Reaching for Higher Ground" series.

Tickets are $16 for general admission and free for UNI students with their uCard. Tickets can be purchased from the Strayer-Wood Theatre lobby box office between noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The box office will be open one hour before curtain time.

For more information, call the Strayer-Wood Theatre box office at 319-273-6381 or visit the website at www.uni.edu/theatre/swt.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Educational Talent Search Program and the Iowa College Access Network will hold a college planning meeting at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 1, at the UNI Center for Urban Education (UNI-CUE), located at 800 Sycamore St., in Waterloo.

This program will give high school juniors, seniors and parents the chance to learn about the college admission process and how to prepare for college. Information also will be provided on the scholarship search process, how to pay for college and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Tony Stevens, director of UNI's Educational Talent Search program at 319-473-1220 or tony.stevens@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – Elizabeth Lefler, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Northern Iowa, will present "Gender Differences in Psychopathology," at noon, Monday, Oct. 3, as part of the Current Research on Women's Studies (CROW) Forum. The forum will be held at UNI's Center for Multicultural Education, Room 109A, located in Maucker Union.

Lefler will discuss gender differences in psychopathology, which will include an analysis of differential gender prevalence rates in a variety of psychological disorders. She will conclude by discussing the varying gender prevalence rates of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and possible reasons as to why this exists.

Lefler teaches psychology courses at UNI, including Psychology of Gender Differences. She received her Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University. She has clinical and research interests in ADHD, early identification and treatment of childhood psychopathology and ethnicity differences in childhood psychopathology.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Barbara Cutter, director of Women's and Gender Studies Program, at 319-273-7102 or barbara.cutter@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Student Nature Society will hold a cross-country 5K to support and promote the UNI Prairie Preserves at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 15, with registration starting at 9 a.m. The race will begin and end near the Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE) on the UNI campus.

The race will be held to promote awareness and use of UNI's natural preserves around campus and the community. The registration fee is $10 for UNI students and $12 for non-students. Anyone who registers by Sept. 30 will receive a free shirt. Additional shirts will be for sale after the start of the race for $8, but are not guaranteed. To register for the race, go to www.studentnaturesociety.com/5kinfo.

The event is open to the public, and runners of all experience and skill levels are encouraged to sign up. Profits from the race will be used for upkeep and maintenance of the Prairie Preserves.

For additional information, contact Susan Meerdink, president of the UNI Student Nature Society, at 712-551-7890 or meerdins@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition has been narrowed down to three finalists, each of whom will present at a special awards luncheon on Nov. 16 in Des Moines.

Following a six-month long competition, where 50 business plans were submitted and reviewed, seven businesses presented to a panel of judges on Sept. 8. The judging panel included the five John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) representatives from the Iowa Small Business Development Center.

The three competition finalists chosen by the panel, listed in alphabetical order:

• M&S FlowMatics, which has developed a unique flow meter for real-time measurement of granular materials though a pipe, such as gravel, grain, sugar or sand. The company was formed in 2009 and is located in Ames.

• Radiology Protocols, which has developed an online medical imaging process to make radiologic imaging efficient and accurate, thus lowering imaging costs. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Iowa City.

• VSI Aerospace, Inc., which combines software and air pressure sensors to alert pilots of trajectory changes to enhance safety and fuel savings. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Ames.

The three winners and their final ranking will be announced at a special awards luncheon on Nov. 16.  At the luncheon, Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad will give a keynote address, and all three winners will provide a brief overview of their businesses. Checks of $25,000 for first place, $15,000 for second place and $10,000 for third place will be awarded, and a short video about the companies will be presented as the awards are announced.

"I congratulate each of the finalists on their outstanding business plans," said John Pappajohn. "More importantly, I hope this competition will stimulate additional entrepreneurial activity throughout the state, and that those business owners who participated will continue to access the resources of the JPECs, business accelerators and SBDCs to help them get started and accelerate their growth once they are in business."

"This has been a terrific competition, and it demonstrates that the entrepreneurial spirit is alive in Iowa," said Randy Pilkington, director of the UNI JPEC. "It will be truly exciting to watch the development and growth of these finalists and also the many other businesses that competed. In this contest, there are only winners, as the participants have dreams, built their plans and are executing on the business plans as we speak. The Iowa economy will be the eventual winner as these companies succeed and grow."

The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers are located at Drake University, Iowa State University, North Iowa Area Community College, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa. The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers provide entrepreneurial education and business support, partnering with agencies like the Small Business Development Center, the Iowa Department of Economic Development,  Entrepreneurial Development Centers and local entrepreneurs to assist with funding and other business needs.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Registration is now open for the management workshop "Many are Good, Few are Great: How to Go from a Good Organization to a Great Organization" hosted by the University of Northern Iowa Executive Development Center. The workshop is 8:30 a.m. to noon, Oct. 7, in the Business and Community Services Building on the UNI campus. The registration deadline is Sept. 30.

"It takes courage and determination to advance an organization to the next level," said Kim Recker, program manager for the UNI Executive Development Center. "This workshop will teach participants strategies to improve employees' performance at all levels."

Instructor Patrick Langan will use Jim Collins' best-selling book "Good to Great" to evaluate what leaders need to move their organizations forward and make them great. He also will introduce the idea that adjusting expectations can improve employee performance.

The cost is $125 per person. UNI Alumni Association members receive a 10-percent discount. Businesses can purchase a consortium membership for $995, which entitles the business to five seats to any of the 2011 management training workshops. Half-day workshops count as a half seat. After the five seats are used, additional seats can be purchased at a discounted rate of $175 per seat.

For more information or to register, contact the UNI Executive Development Center at 319-273-5851 or execdev@uni.edu.

The Executive Development Center is a program of Business and Community Services, a division of the UNI College of Business Administration.     

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Public Policy Program recently received a grant of more than $11,000 from the Max and Helen Guernsey Charitable Foundation to carry out the Neighborhood Study Circles program. The program is designed to help people of limited income in the Waterloo area with needs such as public policy, education, housing, mental health and youth recreation.

There are three stages to the Neighborhood Study Circle program. The first stage includes neighborhood conversations with residents to discuss problems or issues in the community and what they can do to make a difference. Residents will also attend leadership training sessions, where they will acquire the leadership skills necessary to move forward with their issues and plan to resolve them. During the last stage of the program, residents will meet with community leaders, public and non-profit agencies and foundation funders to practice their leadership skills in order to create a strategy to solve the chosen issue.

"Students involved in this project will gain valuable, hands-on public policy experience, while enabling underprivileged community members to better their everyday life," says Allen Hays, director and professor of UNI's public policy program.

The Neighborhood Study Circles program hopes to enable residents to articulate and prioritize issues that affect their lives. The program will provide neighborhood residents leadership skills necessary to effectively mobilize their fellow residents and develop a community wide action plan addressing a range of issues affecting neighborhoods and provide motivation and support as neighborhood residents act on these plans.

For more information about the program, contact Hays, at 319-273-2910 or allen.hays@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa College of Education is offering free professional development webinars to all educators about the hottest topics in education. The series will kickoff in September.

The "Hot Topics in Education" series begins with "Research and Reform in Elementary School Science" at 4 p.m., on Thursday, Sept. 22. This webinar will address research on improved practices for all students, followed by specific reference to practices that address the unique needs of students with disabilities.

Webinars allow educators to learn from UNI experts in the comfort of their classroom, office or home. This year's webinars will feature topics such as cultural competency, best practices in teaching and one-on-one instruction.

For more information about Hot Topics in Education or to register, visit www.uni.edu/coe/webinars.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's recently renovated Sabin Hall will be formally rededicated at 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23 in Sabin 002. A reception and building tours will follow the ceremony. The event is free and open to the public.

The building, completed in 1914, was named the Training School and was the precursor to the Malcolm Price Laboratory School. In 1957, the building was renamed Henry Sabin Hall. The building underwent several upgrades and remodels over the years to reflect its changing function. In March 2008, The Board of Regents approved the complete renovation of Sabin. After two full years of demolition and reconstruction, Sabin reopened in January 2011 with state-of-the-art classrooms and computer labs, streamlined offices and entirely new mechanical systems.

The current interior renovation locates classrooms on lower levels and offices of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences on upper levels, including the office of the dean, political science, social work, women's and gender studies and public policy programs.

The guiding principal for the design, construction and use of the building was sustainability, and the ultimate goal of the project is to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's public policy program will host a panel and reception for alumni, in honor of its 20^th anniversary. The panel will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 23, in the University Room in Maucker Union, and the reception will be from 4 to 5:30 p.m., in the Sabin Hall Atrium.

Community and economic development leaders will discuss the topic of "Current Issues in Community Development." Panelists include Drew Conrad, senior program manager of the Institute for Decision Making and special projects manager for the Business and Community Services Division at UNI; Joe Raso, president of Iowa City Area Development Group, Inc.; Shinita Crawley, advantage services manager for the Common Bond Housing Development; and Kevin Blanshan, director of transportation and data services with the Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments.

The reception will recognize contributions of faculty and staff who have supported the public policy program over the years. These events are in conjunction with the re-dedication of Sabin Hall, which is at 1 p.m. the same day in Sabin Hall.

Both events are free and open to the public. For more information on either event, contact Allen Hays, director and professor of UNI's public policy program, at 319-273-2910 or allen.hays@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Small-business owners and those interested in starting a business are invited to attend EntreBash! from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 6, at the George Washington Carver Academy School, 1505 Logan Ave. in Waterloo. Admission is free.

EntreBash!, hosted by the University of Northern Iowa Regional Business Center, Waterloo Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation and Iowans for Social and Economic Development, is a networking event with the added opportunity for small-business owners and entrepreneurs to gather information important for their business or start-up. During the event attendees can visit exhibitor booths, which represent small businesses in the Cedar Valley. Attendees also can speak directly with UNI business advisers to receive information and referrals to individuals and organizations for assistance with obtaining financing, increasing sales, doing business on the Web, reducing costs, finding new markets and other business services. 

"EntreBash! is a complementary component of MyEntreNet, an online community of more than 10,000 Iowa small-business owners. It's a widely popular site where entrepreneurs can check out other business owners, receive free market research from Iowa's Business Concierge, attend hundreds of webinars, find grants, loans and other sources of capital in our new database, and get personal introductions to people and business programs in the state," said Maureen Collins-Williams, director of the UNI Regional Business Center. 

"At this year's EntreBash! we will have UNI business experts on hand, and we welcome new faces, as well as those who've attended previous events. Check out the experts in person or come let us help you get set up online at EntreBash!"

EntreBash! is one of many events and services hosted through MyEntreNet in the Cedar Valley. For more information, contact the UNI Regional Business Center at 319-273-4335 or visit www.myentre.net

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's dance companies, Orchesis and International Dance Theatre, will perform during UNI's Family Weekend at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23,and at 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 3, in the Strayer-Wood Theatre on the UNI campus.

Orchesis and International Dance Theatre will perform a variety of pieces, including "Cell Block Tango," from the musical "Chicago," and "Tango," from the musical "Moulin Rouge."

Admission is free and no tickets are required. For more information, contact Daniel Wells, instructor in UNI's School of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services, at 319-273-3560 or daniel.wells@uni.edu.

For more information on Family Weekend, visit www.uni.edu/familyweekend.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Gallery of Art will present an exhibition titled "Still Looking (After All These Years): Portrait Paintings and Drawings, 1966-2011," featuring the work of Joseph Patrick, University of Iowa professor emeritus. An artist's talk will be presented at 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 26, in the UNI Gallery of Art on the UNI campus. An opening reception will follow.

The exhibition represents a mere selection of paintings and drawings from the past 45 years of art practice carried out in Iowa City, Mérida, Venezuela and Oaxaca, Mexico, where Patrick and his wife Genie maintain a summer studio and home. According to gallery director Darrell Taylor, "Joe Patrick is an accomplished and prolific artist with an eye toward the individuality of his subject. No one can capture the essence of a person like Joe."

Joseph Patrick received his B.F.A. in painting from the University of Georgia at Athens and his M.F.A. from the University of Colorado at Boulder. From 1965 to 2004, Patrick taught drawing and painting at the University of Iowa School of Art and Art History where for 20 years he served as head of the drawing area. In 1997, Patrick was a Fulbright Teaching Fellow at Universidad de Los Andes in Mérida, Venezuela. He has presented more than 50 solo exhibitions and participated in numerous invitational and group exhibitions. His works may be found in both national and international art collections.

This exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. The gallery is located at the northeast corner of Hudson Road and West 27th Street, Cedar Falls, on the main floor of Kamerick Art Building South.  For more information, call Taylor at 319-273-6134 or darrell.taylor@uni.edu or visit www.uni.edu/artdept/gallery/home.html.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa is ranked second in the "Best Regional Universities (Midwest)" category for public universities, according to U.S. News & World Report's 2012 "America's Best Colleges" guidebook.

The magazine's ranking criteria include peer assessment, academic reputation, retention, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, graduation-rate performance and alumni giving rate. UNI also was 16th on a combined list of all public and private Midwest regional universities -- one of only three public institutions to make the list of top-20 Midwest regionals. 

"It's an honor to be considered one of the best universities in the Midwest," said Benjamin Allen, UNI president. "We know our students receive a high-quality education at UNI. Our faculty and staff strive to provide our students with personalized and diverse educational experiences needed for today's global economy. UNI is committed to providing students the best academic programs and experiences to excel in their careers."

For more information about the college rankings, visit USNews.com. Highlights of UNI's other national rankings and awards can be found at http://www.uni.edu/resources/national-rankings-and-honors.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- "Fast Forward: Maximize Your Drive for Success," an electronic media workshop that brings together academics and media professionals, will be hosted at the University of Northern Iowa, Friday, Oct. 7, in Lang Hall. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with workshops, lunch, discussion and speakers to follow. The event concludes at 2:45 p.m. The "Fast Forward" electronic media workshop is sponsored by the Iowa Broadcasters Association and Quarton-McElroy/IBA Endowment Fund of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation.

The Fast Forward workshop, in its seventh year, continues to bring working professionals to students. Interactive sessions will be offered in a variety of settings to help media students prepare for their first job. Industry experts will lead discussions on how to best practice broadcast journalism and help attendees polish their broadcast skills. The workshops feature 15 unique topics offered by 21 speakers.

The keynote address will be given by Kevin Cooney, winner of the prestigious Jack Shelley Award from the Iowa Broadcast News Association for his outstanding contribution to broadcast journalism in Iowa. Cooney anchors Des Moines' KCCI-TV news weekdays at 6 and 10 p.m.

Cost of the Fast Forward workshop is $50 for UNI students and $65 for professionals and includes a brown bag lunch. Payment can be mailed to Fast Forward: E-Media Workshop, Department of Communication Studies, Lang Hall 326, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614. Make checks payable to UNI/Communication Studies. You can also register online at www.uni.edu/commstudies/fastforward.  Online registration payments are due the day of the event.

For additional information, contact Ronnie Bankston, associate professor of communication studies, at 319-273-6244 or ronnie.bankston@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Learn ways to discover your financial freedom at the "Power of the Purse V: Let's Speak Female," a financial seminar for women from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 27, in Maucker Union on the University of Northern Iowa campus.

Presented by the Regions Bank Trust Department, Women's Philanthropy Council of UNI and UNI Foundation, the seminar will open with a breakfast coffee and welcome remarks from Pat Allen.

National speaker and consultant Margaret May Damen will present the keynote address during the luncheon program. She is founder and CEO of The Institute for Women and Wealth and is co-author of "Women, Wealth & Giving:  The Virtuous Legacy of the Boom Generation."

Damen is a nationally recognized trainer, author and public speaker with years of experience in estate planning, philanthropy and women's financial issues. She is a recipient of the Brandeis Women of the Year and the Executive Women of Palm Beach Women in Leadership awards in recognition of her volunteer work.

To open the seminar, Penny O'Connor, UNI instructor and Vicki Angove, CPA, will take participants on an amusing journey of how different generations communicate about money.

Participants may choose two breakout sessions in the morning and one in the afternoon. Experts will present sessions on avoiding financial pitfalls, estate planning strategies, teaching youth about money matters, understanding how the recession has changed us, basic investing, how to achieve your goals, trusts as an estate planning tool and passion-oriented giving.  

A session designed especially for college students will teach them about purchasing a house, purchasing insurance, basic investing and budgeting. Tracy Freese, trust officer, U.S. Bank, N.A. Private Client Group, will present "Ten Things I Know now that I Wish I Knew Then."

The seminar will conclude with a dessert reception and presentation by UNI students who participate in Volunteer Tuesdays. They will share how seeds of philanthropy make a difference in the Cedar Valley.

The seminar fee is $35 and includes lunch.

Registration deadline is Sept. 20, with limited seating available.  To register online, visit www.unicompass.com or call the UNI Foundation at (319) 273-6078 for more information.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa has been selected by G.I. Jobs Magazine as a Military Friendly School for 2012, an honor placing the university in the top 15 percent of schools doing the most to embrace America's veterans as students.

According to G.I. Jobs, the list honors the top colleges, universities and trade schools that share a priority for recruiting students with military experience.  Criteria for making the Military Friendly Schools list include recruitment and retention of military and veteran students and academic accreditations.

"We are pleased to be recognized for our support of veterans, particularly those returning from current overseas conflicts," said Terry Hogan, UNI vice president for student affairs.  "At the same time, we are working continually to improve the services and support we provide. We think we're a great place for vets to pursue and achieve their educational goals."

The list was compiled through research in which G.I. Jobs polled more than 7,000 schools nationwide.  The methodology, criteria and weighting for the list were developed with assistance of an Academic Advisory Committee consisting of educators and administrators.

For more information, visit www.militaryfriendlyschools.com/default.aspx.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Earth Science Department will host a special viewing of a supernova from 8 to 10 p.m., Friday, Sept. 16, on the grassy area west of the campanile on the UNI campus.

A supernova, one of the most powerful events in astronomy, is an exploding star which can be observed over a great distance. The supernova, named SN2011fe, is at a distance of approximately 20 million light years and is not visible to the naked eye. Telescopes will be set up to view the supernova and other objects in the night sky. If the skies are cloudy, the event will be canceled.

"This is the brightest supernova visible from the northern hemisphere in nearly 40 years," said Siobahn Morgan, department head and professor of earth science at UNI.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Morgan at 319-273-2389 or siobahn.morgan@uni.edu.

AMES, Iowa – The National Science Foundation has awarded a $20 million, five-year grant to build Iowa’s research capacity in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The Iowa Power Fund, a state program supporting energy innovation and independence, has also granted the project $2 million to pay for research equipment.

The core of the research project will be conducted at Iowa’s three public universities – Iowa State University, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa. The program also includes partnerships with the state’s community colleges, private colleges, school districts, government agencies and industries. Iowa State’s Robert C. Brown – an Anson Marston Distinguished Professor in Engineering, the Gary and Donna Hoover Chair in Mechanical Engineering, and the Iowa Farm Bureau Director of Iowa State’s Bioeconomy Institute – will lead the program. Co-leaders are P. Barry Butler, executive vice president and provost at the University of Iowa; Kevin Nordmeyer, the director of the Iowa Energy Center in Ames; and Chitra Rajan, associate vice president for research at Iowa State.

“This $20 million grant is the latest example of Iowa’s public universities working to build an exciting future for the entire state,” said Craig Lang, president of the Iowa Board of Regents. “By developing Iowa’s capacity to harness alternative renewable energy sources, our universities are promoting economic development for Iowa and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.”

The research program’s vision is to establish Iowa as a leader in the worldwide transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. The program will be built on four major platforms:

The bioenergy platform will investigate the challenges of sustainably producing large quantities of biomass (such as corn stalks) and using thermochemical processes to quickly heat the biomass to produce liquid or gas products suitable for generating electric power or upgrading to transportation fuels. Brown will also lead this platform.

The wind energy platform will use advanced engineering principles – including fluid dynamics, machine design and control theory – to improve the reliability of wind turbines. Research initiatives include establishing an outdoor laboratory to collect wind speed and turbulence data, studying the reliability of turbine blades and improving the designs of turbine drivetrains. Butler will lead this platform.

The energy utilization platform will study building energy science and how human behavior influences energy conservation decisions. The platform recognizes the role that the social sciences will play in understanding how people change their energy habits so renewable energy sources can replace fossil fuels. Nordmeyer will lead this platform.

The energy policy platform will explore ways for engineers and economists to collaborate and advise lawmakers on renewable energy and energy efficiency issues. The platform will establish an Energy, Economics, and Engineering (E³) program to train engineering and economics faculty to work together on energy issues. Bruce Babcock, professor of economics and director of the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development at Iowa State University, will lead this platform.

The project will also create a statewide Future Leaders in Advancing Renewable Energy (FLARE) Institute designed to develop the careers of junior faculty in renewable energy fields and broaden the participation of women, under-represented minorities and first-generation college students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. The goal is to help the state create a workforce that can meet the needs of Iowa’s emerging green economy. Rajan will lead the institute. 

 And, the grant supports:

• Hiring five new faculty members to improve energy research at Regent universities
• Improving Iowa’s information technologies for energy studies
• engaging Iowans in energy issues
• transferring campus energy inventions to private companies.

“This project is a unique opportunity for collaboration among all three Regent universities, Iowa’s community and private colleges, K-12 schools, state agencies and regional businesses,” said Iowa State’s Brown, the research program’s leader. “I look forward to working with colleagues across the state who are interested in helping build research capacity in renewable energy and energy efficiency in Iowa.”

The $20 million grant is part of the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. The program – known as EPSCoR – is targeted at states and regions that have not won as much research and development funding as other areas. The grants are designed to improve the research capacity of eligible states or regions, making them nationally competitive for future grants.

Campus research leaders are excited about the opportunities the program will create for Iowa:

Jordan Cohen, vice president for research and economic development and chair of the Iowa EPSCoR Statewide Governing Committee, University of Iowa

“Winning the NSF EPSCoR grant for the state of Iowa provides a unique opportunity to advance our science, technology and research infrastructure. This uniquely collaborative project links the research and educational assets of the Board of Regents universities with all other components of the educational sector, business and industry and state government and will help us build the human and physical capital we need to stimulate innovation, enhance our competitiveness, attract, grow and retain business and develop a talented and diverse workforce for the 21st century economy.”

Gloria Gibson, executive vice president and provost, University of Northern Iowa

“The University of Northern Iowa is excited about Iowa winning the prestigious EPSCoR grant and about our partnership with the other Regent universities and state institutions to improve and expand the scope of STEM in our state. This project will allow us to advance crucial strategic goals related to innovative research, faculty collaboration, and the integration of education and research.”

Sharron Quisenberry, vice president for research and economic development, Iowa State University

“This investment in Iowa by the National Science Foundation will position our state as a research and technology leader in renewable energy and energy efficiency. The project’s vision of a transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy systems matches the state’s aspirations to use science, technology and human creativity to meet the challenges of the 21^st century and to build an innovative Iowa economy.”

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Coleen Rowley, former FBI agent and whistleblower, will make three presentations at the University of Northern Iowa. All are free and open to the public.

The first is from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 19, in Schindler Education Center, Room 244, with a presentation entitled "Always Do Right," and is sponsored by the David W. Wilson Chair in Business Ethics.

The Sept. 19 event is hosted by UNI professor Donna J. Wood, who holds the David W. Wilson Chair in Business Ethics, Iowa's first endowed chair in business ethics. The chair was established through a $1 million gift from university alumnus and Laguna, Calif., resident David W. Wilson, president and owner of one of the largest privately owned automotive groups in the country. Wilson graduated from UNI in 1970 with a B.A. in philosophy. For more information, contact Wood at 319-273-2196 or donna.wood@uni.edu.

The American Democracy Project (ADP), a program of the Provost's Office, will host Rowley's second and third presentations. As part of Constitution Day, Rowley will be speaking to 185 of Waterloo's Central Middle School students from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, Sept. 20, in the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. For more information, contact Katheryn East, associate professor, educational psychology and foundations at 319-273-6789 or katheryn.east@uni.edu.

Rowley's final presentation starts at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 20, in Lang Hall Auditorium, where she will discuss civil liberties vs. fighting terrorism, with her lecture entitled "The Constitution and Civil Liberties: Reducing Terrorism Without Reducing Civil Liberties." The Sept. 20 presentation is in honor of Constitution Day, which is Sept. 17.

The ADP is a multi-campus initiative of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). Its mission is to create an intellectual and experiential understanding of civic engagement for undergraduates enrolled at AASCU member institutions in order to produce graduates who understand and are committed to engaging in meaningful actions as citizens in a democracy. For more information, contact Geraldine Perreault, associate professor and director, leadership studies, at 319-273-6898 or geraldine.perreault@uni.edu.

Rowley, who is originally from New Hampton, Iowa, travels the country speaking to various groups on these topics. She was named TIME magazine's person of the year in 2002.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The MBA program at the University of Northern Iowa is seeking potential clients for its annual Capstone Experience. The Capstone Experience is a comprehensive, end-of-program application of the MBA curriculum, during which MBA candidates undertake strategic management projects for client organizations in northeast Iowa. 

Potential clients are drawn from both the business and non-profit sectors. Projects are developed to meet the specific needs of the client, but typically they address strategic planning, marketing analysis, process analysis or feasibility questions. The work is completed in the spring of each year.

The MBA candidates work in small consulting teams and analyze the organization's problem from a strategic perspective. Each team includes members with expertise across a range of business functions, business cultures and analytical methods. Teams work with a mentor from the graduate faculty who has expertise in the topic of the project. 

Projects are selected each fall. Organizations that would like more information or to propose a Capstone Experience project should contact Capstone Coordinator Dale Cyphert at 319-273-6150 or dale.cyphert@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa, in conjunction with the Iowa Association of College Admissions Counselors, is inviting students from 32 Iowa high schools to participate in the 2011 McLeod Center College Fair, from 9 to 11 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 20.

High school juniors and seniors will be able to visit with representatives from more than 85 post-secondary institutions from Iowa and surrounding states during the fair.

Students will have the opportunity to browse displays from the visiting institutions, which include two- and four-year public and private colleges, universities, community colleges, and technical and cosmetology schools, as well as the military.

This year the fair will be implementing the College Fair Automation barcode and scanner system to expedite the exchange of information between students and colleges. This process will provide students with the opportunity to register online prior to the event. This will generate a barcode that has all their profile information, which they bring to the fair. Colleges will be equipped with a scanner to capture the student data. Now representatives can have more meaningful conversations with students instead of getting stuck in the administrative task of gathering their information on a prospect card.

Students need to pre-register their information for the fair by accessing the registration form at www.iowacollegefairs.com. The student's information will not be shared with any third party vendors. The information will only be shared with the colleges/universities the student targets.

For more information, contact Jenny Connolly, assistant director of admissions/outreach, at 319-273-2281 or toll-free at 1-800-772-2037 or jenny.connolly@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- University of Northern Iowa officials report an increase in the number of out-of-state and multicultural students enrolled for the 2011 fall semester, resulting in an official fall enrollment of 13,168. Calculated on students enrolled through the end of the second week of class, UNI's fall enrollment shows a decrease of 33 students compared to fall 2010.

"Following four consecutive years of increased enrollment, the slight decline in new student enrollment mirrors the state's decline in the number of seniors graduating from Iowa high schools," said UNI President Benjamin Allen. "In addition, we know that the economic needs of our students and families are great and that the economy is having a more significant impact on our students. As always, growing enrollment at UNI will be a priority."

"It is encouraging to see that our strategic efforts in out-of-state and multicultural recruitment are having a positive impact on our enrollment," said Allen.

Multicultural enrollment rose to an all-time high of 7.4 percent. Out-of-state enrollment increased by 2 percent. More than 90 percent of UNI's enrollment is from the state of Iowa. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- "World Tour!" will be the theme of the 30^th annual Scholarship Benefit Concert hosted by the UNI School of Music. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m., on Friday, Sept. 23,in the Great Hall at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center (GBPAC) at the University of Northern Iowa.

This year's concert will feature music by guest artist and School of Music Hall of Fame alumna Sheri Greenawald, the Northern Iowa Symphony Orchestra, the UNI Opera ensemble, Kaji-Daiko Taiko ensemble, Jazz Band One, faculty artists Sean Botkin and Jeff Brich, alumni performers from the UNI flute studio, UNI Symphonic Band with combined choirs, as well as the Northern Iowa Wind Symphony performing with the Varsity Men’s Glee Club and more.

Following the concert there will be hors d'oeuvres and music in the lobby, as well as post show performances featuring School of Music faculty and guest musicians in Davis Hall.

The Scholarship Benefit Concerts have been raising scholarship funds for exceptionally talented music students and students in need since 1982. All seats for the benefit concert are reserved. Individual tickets may be purchased in person at the Gallagher-Bluedorn box office, by calling 319-273-4TIX or 877-549-SHOW (7469) or at www.unitix.uni.edu. To become a special donor and receive complimentary tickets, contact the School of Music office at 319-273-2025.

For more information, contact Caroline Boehmer, UNI School of Music communications and operations coordinator, at 319-273-2028 or caroline.boehmer@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Registration is now open for the management workshop "Courageous Leadership: Strengthening Your on-the-job Assertiveness" hosted by the University of Northern Iowa Executive Development Center. The workshop is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 27, in the Business and Community Services Building on the UNI campus. The registration deadline is Sept. 20.

"Standing up for what's right takes courage," said Kim Recker, program manager for the UNI Executive Development Center. "Making decisions that aren't always the most popular with peers and employees can be stressful, but in this workshop participants will learn to take risks for their own good and for their organizations' future success."

Participants also will learn how to maintain good judgment and decision-making capabilities in demanding or stressful situations and how to push themselves and others to the next level without compromising their values. They also will practice assertive communication and conflict management techniques with instructor Dewitt Jones.

The cost is $249 per person. UNI Alumni Association members receive a 10-percent discount. Businesses can purchase a consortium membership for $995, which entitles the business to five seats to any of the 2011 management training workshops. Half-day workshops count as a half seat. After the five seats are used, additional seats can be purchased at a discounted rate of $175 per seat.

For more information or to register, contact the UNI Executive Development Center at 319-273-5851 or execdev@uni.edu.

The Executive Development Center is a program of Business and Community Services, a division of the UNI College of Business Administration.     

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Center for Multicultural Education (CME) will host Felipe Luciano, a news reporter and anchor, poet, writer, lecturer and activist. The lecture, "Black Latino Unity: The Missing Link," will take place Monday, Sept. 19, at 3:30 p.m., in the Maucker Union Ballroom on the University of Northern Iowa campus.

Luciano is a two-time Emmy Award winner for his reporting, and America's first Puerto Rican news anchor for network television station, WNBC. He is the founder and chairman of the Young Lords Party, a member of 1960s rap/hip hop movement forerunner The Original Last Poets, an advocate for inter-communication and former host of Fox 5's "Street Talk."

Committed to community empowerment, ethnic pride and civil rights, he has helped change the color and complexion of politics, culture and society in his career, and continues to advise leaders of state and local governments and corporations on issues affecting growing markets, the Latino community, coalition building, diversity and multiculturalism.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Tabatha Cruz, program director at the CME, at 319-273-2250 or tabatha@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa will welcome Frank Warren, the founder of the PostSecret blog, for his "PostSecret Live" presentation on Sept. 15, at 7:30 p.m., at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. The event is sponsored by UNI's Campus Activities Board.

The PostSecret blog has become a national phenomenon, with hundreds of people sharing their deepest, and sometimes darkest, secrets to the world on postcards submitted to the PostSecret headquarters. Warren's collection includes more than 200,000 highly personal and artfully decorated cards, displaying secrets that have never been voiced. From deep family secrets to funny reflections, Warren will share the stories behind the memorable postcards he has received. During his presentation, he will share postcards that were banned from the book, discuss why the blog is important, and why he has made suicide awareness part of his life's work. For more information, visit www.postsecretcommunity.com.

Warren will have copies of his books available, including the #1 New York Times Best Seller, "PostSecret: Confessions on Life, Death and God," at the Student Involvement and Activities Center leading up to and on the night of the event, and will be signing books immediately following his presentation. All proceeds from the book sales will go to IMAlive, a live-online crisis network that partners with Warren's PostSecret website.

This event is free and open to the public. Tickets are available at the Student Involvement and Activities Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily; tickets will be available to the public starting Sept. 8. For ticketing information and questions, contact Ashley Minshall, program coordinator, Student Involvement and Activities Center, at 319-273-6849 or ashley.minshall@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The Strayer-Wood Theatre has announced its 2011-2012 season, "Renewal: Emerging Beyond Struggles." During the next two years, Strayer-Wood will produce plays that illuminate political and social issues. The following plays will be presented in the 2011-12 season:

"Guernica," by Cody Daigle, directed by Steve Taft, will play Oct. 6 to 8 and Oct. 13 to 15 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 9 and 16 at 2 p.m. in the Bertha Martin Theatre. Before 9-11, there was Guernica. The Spanish town of Guernica was home to a tragic historical event that inspired Picasso to create a masterpiece.

"Mad Forest," by Caryl Churchill, directed by Cynthia Goatley, will play Oct. 20 to 22 and Oct. 27 to 29 at 7:30 p.m., and Oct. 23 and 30 at 2 p.m. in the Strayer-Wood Theatre. Caryl Churchill's "Mad Forest" places ordinary people into the churning realities of acting and defining revolution. 

"Dying City," by Christopher Shinn, directed by Richard Glockner, will play Feb. 23 to 25 and March 1 to 3 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 26 and March 4 at 2 p.m. in the Bertha Martin Theatre. "Dying City" is a disturbing, sophisticated drama that explores how contemporary politics and recent history have transformed the lives of three characters.

"Bat Boy: The Musical," with story and book by Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming, and music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe, directed by Patrick Elkins-Zeglarski, will play April 5 to 7 and April 12 to 14 at 7:30 p.m., and April 15 at 2 p.m. in the Strayer-Wood Theatre. Based on events as chronicled in Weekly World News, "Bat Boy: The Musical" is a musical comedy/horror show about a half boy/half bat creature who is discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, W.Va.

For a synopsis on each of the plays, visit www.uni.edu/theatre/swt. Tickets for plays are $16 for adults, $13 for non-UNI students and $10 for youth 18 and under.  Adult tickets for musicals are $20, $15 for non-UNI students and $12 for youth 18 and under. UNI students receive one ticket free for each production with their uCard. Tickets can be purchased from the Strayer-Wood Theatre Box Office, which is open noon to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and one hour before curtain. Tickets can also be purchased by phone at 319-273-6381 or online at www.uni.edu/theatre/swt. For more information, contact Traci Gaydos at 319-273-6387 or traci.gaydos@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- "Justice Brandeis and the Art of Dissent," will be the topic of the 38^th Annual Carl L. Becker Memorial Lecture in History by Melvin I. Urofsky, at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 14, in Seerley Hall, Room 115.

Urofsky currently holds a joint appointment as a historian-in-residence at American University and as an adjunct professor of law and public policy at Virginia Commonwealth University. He received his Ph.D. in history from Columbia University in 1968 and commands academic specialties in constitutional/legal history and American Jewish history. His biography, "Brandeis: A Life," was selected as "Book of the Year" by the Jewish Book Council and as one of the "100 Best Books of 2009" by The New York Times.

The lecture is in honor of Carl L. Becker, who received his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin in 1907 and is originally from Reinbeck, Iowa. From 1902 to 1941, Becker taught at various universities in the Midwest and East, with the last being Cornell University in New York.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Robert Martin, department head, UNI Department of History, at 319-273-2097 or robert.martin@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE) will show the documentary "Gasland," directed by Josh Fox, from 7 to 9 p.m., on Monday, Sept. 19, in the CEEE auditorium at the University of Northern Iowa. The film explores a new method used in obtaining natural gas and the effects it has on the environment.

Fox first learned of this drilling campaign in 2009 when he was offered $100,000 to lease his land for drilling. He soon found out his home was directly above a rock formation containing the natural gas that was sought after. This new method of obtaining natural gas is called hydraulic fracturing, otherwise known as "fracking." Fox also came to understand that his home was merely a small piece of the 34-state drilling campaign, the largest natural gas-drilling boom in history.

The film portrays the harmful effects fracking has on land and the people who reside around these areas. The main concern regarding fracking and the areas affected is water contamination, in that researchers suspect at least 65 chemicals used in the fracking process are hazardous. Kamyar Enshayan, director of the CEEE, thinks, "In the same way that we had to come to terms with the moral troubles of slavery, we need to come to terms with the real consequences of our troublesome dependence on fossil energy."

For more information about the event, contact Enshayan at 319-273-7575 or kamyar.enshayan@uni.edu. For additional information about the movie or to donate to the cause, visit www.gaslandthemovie.com. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The University of Northern Iowa Speakers Bureau provides communities with more than 200 speakers and topics. The UNI Speakers Bureau can provide speakers for business meetings, conferences, workshops and community and civic groups.

From managing communication conflict to renewable wind energy, from health and wellness to computer security, UNI's Speakers Bureau has a speaker for any group and any occasion.

The UNI Speakers Bureau also includes a "Featured Speakers" series. Additional "Featured Speakers" will be updated in the future.

For more information about how to reserve a speaker and for details on the presentations, contact the Office of University Relations, 319-273-6728 or visit www.uni.edu/speakers.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The Grainger Foundation has donated $5,000 to the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Foundation to help establish the Iowa Green School Initiative. 

The Iowa Green School Initiative, offered through UNI's Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE), will combine the various programs currently offered by UNI into one cohesive set of educational services. Through the program, school administrators will learn how green facilities function and how to teach students techniques that reduce their own energy footprints. 

"The Iowa Green School Initiative program will eventually serve the entire state, but will pilot with four school districts this fall in collaboration with the Area Education Agency 267, a local education agency, in northeast Iowa," said Kamyar Enshayan, director, CEEE.  "This program will allow us to consult with schools, local governments, businesses, and other organizations on planning for energy conservation and efficiency, local foods planning, and community environmental health.  We are grateful to The Grainger Foundation for its generosity."

Tim Cuvelier, service center manager, of the W.W. Grainger, Inc., Waterloo location recommended the donation. "We are proud to support the program offered by UNI and the CEEE," said Cuvelier.  "We understand their commitment to improve and enhance environmental education in our area and are excited to be a part of providing this opportunity to students who will be able to learn lifelong habits in smart energy use and waste reduction."

The Grainger gift is part of UNI's Imagine the Impact campaign, which supports scholarships and programs. For more information about the campaign, visit www.uni-foundation.org.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- In the summer of 1995, Jodi Husentruit was on her way to work at a Mason City TV station when she vanished without a trace. Beth Bednar, author of "Dead Air: The Disappearance of Jodi Husentruit" will speak about her own experiences as a news anchor and about her book at the University of Northern Iowa on Thursday, Sept. 8, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., in the Center for Multicultural Education (CME) located in Maucker Union. She will inform the audience about the kidnapping of Husentruit in hopes to increase coverage regarding the disappearance.

The book provides a special insight into the TV news business and shines a spotlight on a missing person's case that still poses more questions than answers. "Someone still harbors the truth about what really happened," said Bednar. "This case still haunts the entire TV industry as well as her family and friends and someone needs to stand up for Jodi and her story."

The event is sponsored by the Department of Communication Studies. Bednar will also appear at University Book & Supply in Cedar Falls, Sept. 8, from 6 to 7 p.m. to speak and sign books.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The Center for Multicultural Education (CME) will host a book club for the fifth year at the University of Northern Iowa, with participants reading and discussing texts that deal with various cultural expressions, and history, customs and perspectives of African-Americans, Native Americans, Latinos and Asian/Pacific Islander Americans.

The series, open to students, faculty, staff and the community begins Thursday, Sept. 15, with "Sonia Sotomayor: The True American Dream," by Antonia Felix.

Other books and dates include: "Black in Latin America," by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., on Oct. 20; "Make a Beautiful Way: The Wisdom of Native American Women," by Barbara Alice Mann (ed.), on Nov. 17; "Becoming King: Martin Luther King Jr. and the making of a National Leader," by Troy Jackson, on Jan. 19; "The End of Anger: A New Generation's Take on Race and Rage," by Ellis Cose, on Feb. 16; "Ingratitude: The Debt-Bound Daughter in Asian American Literature," by erin Khuȇ Ninh, on March 22; and "Multicultural American Literature: Comparative Black, Native, Latino/a, and Asian American Fictions," by A. Robert Lee, on April 19.

Books are available for checkout at the CME. Meetings will be held at the CME located in the Maucker Union from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on the designated Thursdays.

For additional information, visit www.uni.edu/cme/upcoming-events or contact Kailee Becker at kaileeb@uni.edu or 319-273-2250.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The UNI Suzuki School is seeking members for three orchestras. The Northern Iowa Youth Orchestra, directed by Bonnie Alger, is for student musicians in grades 9 through 12.  String, wind, brass and percussion players are invited to audition on Sept. 9 or 10. The orchestra will rehearse on Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m., at Russell Hall, on the UNI campus and will perform two local concerts each year.

The Northern Iowa Junior Orchestra, directed by Tom Schilke, is for string students in grades 6 through 8.  String students are invited to audition on Sept. 16. The orchestra will rehearse on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m., at Russell Hall and will perform a local concert and participate in a tour of Iowa schools in April.

The "Not Ready for Prime Time Philharmonic," directed by Alger, is for adult string players. Interested musicians are asked to attend an informational meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m., Russell Hall, Room 159.

All auditions are in Russell Hall Room 121 and are made by appointment. To schedule an audition, call Cathy Craig, coordinator of the Suzuki School, at 319-273-2508. For more information about all orchestras, playing level requirements, audition forms, participation fees and rehearsal schedules, visit the school's website at www.uni.edu/music/suzuki or email Craig at cathy.craig@uni.edu. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Registration is now open for the management workshop "Discover the Power of Accountability That Works!^©" hosted by the University of Northern Iowa's Executive Development Center. The workshop is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 22, in the Business and Community Services Building on the UNI campus. The registration deadline is Sept. 15.

Workshop participants will learn to end the "blame game" in their organizations and how to focus on agreement management rather than conflict management. Instructor Melanie Hoffner will give insight and teach strategies to improve responsibility, empowerment, accountability and the use of "clear agreements."

The workshop cost is $249 per person. UNI Alumni Association members receive a 10-percent discount. Businesses can purchase a consortium membership for $995, which entitles the business to five seats to any of the 2011 management training workshops. Half-day workshops count as a half seat. After the five seats are used, additional seats can be purchased at a discounted rate of $175 per person.

For more information or to register, contact the UNI Executive Development Center at 319-273-5851 or execdev@uni.edu.

The Executive Development Center is a program of Business and Community Services, a division of the UNI College of Business Administration.     

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Registration is now open for the management workshop "Survival Skills for First-Time Managers" hosted by the University of Northern Iowa Executive Development Center. The workshop is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 20, in the Business and Community Services Building on the UNI campus. The registration deadline is Sept. 13.

This workshop is boot camp for first-time managers, according to Kim Recker, program manager for the UNI Executive Development Center.

Instructor Jim Hogan will introduce the management skills and tools needed to have a successful career. He will help workshop participants identify their natural leadership style, which allows an understanding of the differences between how people manage and how they like to be managed, and teach them how to adapt their communication style. Practical conflict resolution skills also will be covered.

The workshop cost is $249 per person. UNI Alumni Association members receive a 10-percent discount. Businesses can purchase a consortium membership for $995, which entitles the business to five seats to any of the 2011 management training workshops. Half-day workshops count as a half seat. After the five seats are used, additional seats can be purchased at a discounted rate of $175 per person.

For more information or to register, contact the UNI Executive Development Center at 319-273-5851 or execdev@uni.edu.

The Executive Development Center is a program of Business and Community Services, a division of the UNI College of Business Administration.     

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Textiles in the form of blankets, clothes and decorations are a part of daily life for people around the world. Beyond these practical uses, however, textiles hold value in the form of unspoken communication.

On display Sept. 12 through Dec. 5, the UNI Museums' fall exhibit "Talking Textiles" will explore the meaning infused in everyday fabric, from the cut and color of the cloth and how it is worn to the motifs and embellishments used in its decoration.

Visitors will discover the meanings and cultural messages in a selection of textiles from the UNI Museums' own collection. This will include a Bedouin tent, a baby carrier from Borneo, a Fon cloth from West Africa and more. Explore how cloth has the ability to communicate with anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, marital status, religion, economic status or political views.

UNI Museums will celebrate the opening of "Talking Textiles" with a reception at 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 12, at the University Museum, 3219 Hudson Rd. in Cedar Falls. The event will feature a short talk by Kim Taylor, collections manager and exhibit curator. There will also be a brief presentation by UNI students involved in bringing the exhibit to life. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

"Talking Textiles" and its programs are funded in part by the Max and Helen Guernsey Charitable Foundation and sponsored by Humanities Iowa and the National Endowment for the Humanities. The views and opinions expressed by this program do not necessarily reflect those of Humanities Iowa or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Visit www.uni.edu/museum for more information and a complete listing of programs and events. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa invites Iowa's communities to participate in  "Reaching for Higher Ground: Community after 9/11." This series reflects on the 10^th anniversary of 9/11, a time for remembrance, honor, understanding and discussion of why 9/11 happened and its impact on the UNI, Iowa and world community.

A series of signature events is planned for the fall to promote conversation around the Sept. 11 attacks, while honoring those lost, the survivors and discussing the impact to U.S. foreign and domestic policies.

Events include:

Sunday, Sept. 11, 8 a.m. – noon, Flag Planting Remembrance in Lawther Field on the UNI campus. Students, faculty and staff are invited to plant a flag for each person who lost their life on 9/11. A moment of silence will be held at 8:37 a.m., 8:59 a.m., 9:03 a.m. and 9:28 a.m. (CST), to commemorate the collapse of the World Trade Center Towers.

Sunday, Sept. 11, 7 p.m., "Remembrance: 9/11 Ten Years Later," at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center (GBPAC). This special collaboration between the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, Metropolitan Chorale, Red Cedar Chamber Music and Theatre UNI will feature a unique mix of memorial music coupled with multimedia and dramatic readings of the evening's themes.

Monday, Sept. 12, 7 p.m., "Photographing Ground Zero," at the GBPAC. Joel Meyerowitz is the creator of the World Trade Center Archive and will share pictures of his monumental work of the aftermath of the World Trade Center attack. He also shares stories of the people he met, his personal experiences and his personal response to this tragedy.

Tuesday, Sept. 13, 7 p.m., faculty panel "9/11: A 10-Year Retrospective," at the GBPAC. A panel of UNI faculty members will discuss questions such as why 9/11 happened; what, if anything, could have been done to prevent it; did the attackers achieve their goals; did the U.S. respond adequately; has our understanding of why it happened changed in the last 10 years? The audience is invited to bring their questions and reflections to the discussion.

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 7 p.m., documentary film "11'09"01 – September 11," at the GBPAC. Eleven directors from 11 countries each contribute an 11-minute short film reflecting on the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

"UNI's Reaching for Higher Ground project aims to engage students and community members in civil dialogue and critical thinking by examining critical issues from multiple perspectives," said Steve Carignan, assistant vice president and executive director of the GBPAC. "'Community After 9/11'" allows individuals an opportunity for self-reflection and education about societal factors and differences that may unite and divide us at times, but in the end, define us as a community."

For more information about Reaching For Higher Ground and fall events, visit www.uni.edu/higherground or contact Steve Carignan, assistant vice president and executive director of GBPAC, 319-273-3665.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – The Northern Iowa Food and Farm Partnership is hosting its first Farm Crawl in the Cedar Valley area on Sunday, Sept. 11 from 1 to 5 p.m. The event is free and for all ages.

Participants will learn how 10 local farmers grow their food and manage their farms on this self-guided tour. Expect to experience everything from produce that is grown free from pesticides and herbicides and free-range chickens to hand-feeding a buffalo and tasting award-winning apples.

"This is an exciting opportunity for people to spend an afternoon with their families - reconnecting with the countryside, learning where and how their food is grown, and making friends along the way,” said Andrea Geary, local food program manager at the Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE) at the University of Northern Iowa.

There will be fun activities for children and local food will be available to buy and cook for dinner. The family or individual that visits the most farms will win a coveted gift basket of local foods. In the event of a tie, a drawing will be held. Checklists and collecting bins for the drawing will be available at each farm.

For a map and details about each farm, visit the CEEE home page, at www.ceee.uni.edu.

State Senator Rob Hogg and Raki Giannakourus to discuss cleaner energy

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- State senator Rob Hogg and Raki Giannakourus of the Green Dubuque organization will be speaking about cleaner and more efficient energy at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 6, at the University of Northern Iowa Center for Energy and Environmental Education (CEEE) auditorium.

Rob Hogg has been Iowa's leading voice for energy policies that will move Iowa towards conservation, efficiency and renewable energy. Hogg currently serves on the Iowa Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee. Giannakourus is on the board of directors for the non-profit Green Dubuque organization, which works to protect Dubuque's local ecosystems by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting smarter development. Giannakourus will share with the audience his "50% by 2030" in greenhouse gas reduction plan which passed unanimously through the Dubuque City Council.

Kamyar Enshayan, director of the CEEE says the center is "committed to helping Iowans understand the nature of climate disruptions due to our dependency to fossil energy, and ways of creating resilience in our communities and state to deal with that reality."

The event is sponsored by the CEEE. For additional information, contact Enshayan at 319-273-7575 or kamyar.enshayan@uni.edu.

- END -

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Green Iowa AmeriCorps, based at the University of Northern Iowa Center for Energy & Environmental Education (CEEE), is seeking individuals with an interest in facilitating energy conservation efforts for residents of northeastern Iowa.

Ten-month member positions are available in Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids, Decorah and Dubuque beginning Oct. 3.  Members will build management skills through specific team leader roles.  Duties include home weatherization, facilitating energy education programs and participating in community outreach projects.  Team members will also plan and oversee a Volunteer Generating Project (VGP) throughout their service terms and have the opportunity to attend several trainings applicable to today's green job market.  

Green Iowa AmeriCorps is operated through UNI's CEEE. Support for the program comes from the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service, Iowa Power Fund and the Iowa Office of Energy Independence. 

For more information and to apply, visit www.americorps.gov.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa will host Kindergym, an informal learning program focusing on the development and refinement of motor skills. The program will be offered Saturday mornings from 9 to 9:50 a.m. for 4- and 5-year-olds and from 10 to 10:50 a.m. for 2- and 3-year-olds. Kindergym will be held Sept. 10 through Oct. 22, in the Wellness & Recreation Center main gym on the UNI campus.

Physical activity stations will focus on age appropriate movement skills that encourage success in a fun atmosphere. Because Kindergym is a parent/child program, parents are requested to attend the sessions with their child.

The registration fee is $32, which includes an official Kindergym T-shirt. The program is directed by Katie Farwell, program assistant in the Department of Health, Physical Education & Leisure Services. For more information about Kindergym or to register, contact Rip Marston, professor in the Department of Health, Physical Education & Leisure Services, at 319-273-6882 or ripley.marston@uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's MyEntre.Net program recently added its 10,000th online member, and continues to draw new members, adding more than 75 entrepreneurs and service providers each week. 

MyEntre.Net, administered by UNI's Regional Business Center, is an entrepreneurship support system dedicated to serving entrepreneurs, and the public organizations who serve entrepreneurs, in the state of Iowa. By utilizing the online community and cutting-edge business resources that are available on MyEntre.Net, entrepreneurs can access capital, technical assistance, business networks and their peers.

To celebrate its 10,000th member, MyEntre.Net gave away a flip camcorder to one of the attendees of its Aug. 4 business webinar. Steven Wilson, with Wilson Consulting and Training Services (WCTS, Inc.) in Robins, Iowa, won the camcorder.

Wilson is representative of the many small business owners on MyEntre.Net, according to Maureen Collins-Williams, director of the UNI Regional Business Center/MyEntre.Net. WCTS Inc. was founded in 2003 as an operational excellence training and consulting firm, specializing in the areas of Lean and Six Sigma. Recognizing that human dynamics play a large role in any continuous improvement effort, the company assists organizations with the overall development of their leadership teams and workforce and provides customized training services for large and small firms.

"I appreciate the resources provided for small businesses through MyEntre.Net," Wilson said. "There are a lot of great features that business owners can access to help increase their skills and profitability."

Register for and get more information about MyEntre.Net at www.myentre.net, or by emailing info@myentre.net.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Seven businesses have been selected as finalists in the 2011 John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition. The businesses continuing in the competition are CQM Systems, M&S FlowMatics, FxRedux, Pathovacs, Radiology Protocols, Responsible Transportation and VSI Aerospace Inc.

"Now that we have selected seven finalists, each business plan competitor will interview with a panel of judges on Sept. 8," said Randy Pilkington, director of the University of Northern Iowa's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and competition judge. "Based on those presentations, we will choose the top three finalists for a special awards ceremony in October."

This is the third round of competition. In the first round, businesses submitted brief information about their business plans. Based on those entries, judges chose 20 entrepreneurs to submit full business plans. Those 20 business plans were narrowed down to these final seven.

The John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition is designed to stimulate business development and provide support for outstanding business plans. This year a total of $50,000 will be awarded to the top three submitted business plans: $25,000 for first prize, $15,000 for second and $10,000 for third.

For more information, visit the competition website, www.iowabusinessplancompetition.com, or contact one of the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers located at UNI, Drake University, Iowa State University, North Iowa Area Community College and the University of Iowa.

The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers provide entrepreneurial education and business support, partnering with agencies like the Small Business Development Center, the Iowa Department of Economic Development,  Entrepreneurial Development Centers and local entrepreneurs to assist with funding and other business needs.

2011 finalists in alphabetical order

CQM Systems, LLC

CQM Systems has developed a chemical-free proprietary technology to ensure water quality to enhance heat exchanger system efficiency and reduce safety, health and environmental concerns. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Coralville.

Contact:  Charles Dirks

319-471-5958

cdirks@cqmsystems.com

www.cqmsystems.com

FxRedux Solutions LLC

FxRedux Solutions uses proprietary technology to automate the virtual alignment of bone fragments leading to better results and reduced costs. The company was formed in 2011 and is located in Iowa City.

Contact: Joe Provorse

608-358-7061

Robert-provorse@uiowa.edu

www.energycontroltechnologies.com

M&S FlowMatics

M&S FlowMatics has developed a unique flow meter for real-time measurement of granular materials though a pipe, such as gravel, grain, sugar or sand. The company was formed in 2009 and is located in Ames.

Contact: Manjit Misra

515-290-5292

mkmisra@iastate.edu

Radiology Protocols

Radiology Protocols has developed an on-line medical imaging process to make radiologic imaging efficient and accurate, thus lowering imaging costs. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Iowa City.

Contact:  Steve Baker

319-430-4300

sbakerr@radiologyprotocols.com

www.RadiologyProtocols.com

Responsible Transportation

Responsible Transportation will become the only horse processing plant in the United States and create value from unwanted horses. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in Iowa City.

Contact: Keaton Walker

319-461-4580

Keaton@responsible-transportation.com

www.responsble-transportation.com

Pathovacs

Pathovacs speeds the development of proprietary vaccines and is working to commercialize an antigen discovery technology. Pathovacs was founded in 2009 and is based in Ames.

Contact: Monohar John

781-244-4505

mjohn@pathovacs.com

www.pathovacs.com

VSI Aerospace, Inc.

VSI Aerospace combines software and air pressure sensors to alert pilots of trajectory changes to enhance safety and fuel savings. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Ames.

Contact: Jerald Vogel

515-292-3578

vsiaero@gmail.com

www.vsiaerospace.com

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The 3^rd Annual North End Arts and Music Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 27 and 28, on the grounds of Jubilee United Methodist Church, 1621 E. 4^th St. in Waterloo. The purpose of this festival is to showcase the rich cultural history of Waterloo's northeast side and to celebrate the talents of its visual and performing artists.

The headline artist for this event will be Tony Brown, a native of Waterloo and a regionally and nationally recognized artist whose performances reflect blues, reggae, funk and other musical traditions. He will appear at 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug 27 at the Jubilee United Methodist Church. Other artists include Tatum Talbert, ShayFresh, the North End Blues All Stars, Original Man, Shy Illa and LyRikal. Sunday's program will be headlined by gospel singer John Mark and will feature many local gospel ensembles.

Sponsors include the University of Northern Iowa College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences, UNI's Public Policy Program, the City of Waterloo, the Waterloo Convention and Visitor's Bureau and many local businesses.

A detailed schedule of events is at www.northendfest.org. 

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The first University of Northern Iowa art exhibition for fall 2011 is "Turning Point: New Acquisitions from the UNI Permanent Art Collection." The exhibit features recent donations from Lois E. Iseminger of Chicago, Ill., Lois and Norman Jones of Davis, Calif. and recent donations by UNI alumni.

A lecture titled "UNI Accounting Blends with Art" by UNI alumna and art collector Lois E. Iseminger will be presented at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 31 in Kamerick Art Building- Room 111. A reception will follow. All events are sponsored in part by the UNI College of Business Administration and the UNI Foundation.

Represented in this exhibit are contemporary works of art by Robert Arneson, David Bolduc, Michael Boyd, William Conger, Hanne Darboven, John Dilg, David Driesbach, Ruth Duckworth, Marianne Lipschitz Jorgensen, Sarah Krepp, Ken Little, Danny Mansmith, Gladys Nilsson, Jay Phillips, Kay Rosen, Barry Tinsley, and the entire New Art Examiner edition box containing the works of 25 Chicago artists, which the collector acquired at the 1999 New Art Examiner 25^th Anniversary Surrealist Cabaret Ball.

The exhibit will run from Aug. 22 to Sept. 18. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.  The gallery is located at the northeast corner of Hudson Road and West 27th Street, Cedar Falls, on the main floor of Kamerick Art Building South.  

For more information, call 319-273-3095 or visit www.uni.edu/artdept/gallery/Home.html.