The annual ISU Day at the Capitol event on Feb. 21 will again showcase how the university is turning ideas into impact -- through initiatives focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, economic development and service to the state.
President Wendy Wintersteen and nearly 50 faculty, staff, students and stakeholders from 17 programs across campus will share stories of how Iowa State addresses state priorities, prepares students for careers and explores new frontiers in science and technology. ISU Day at the Capitol runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon in the statehouse rotunda.
Exhibits prepared for ISU Day at the Capitol include:
Expanding vigilance against cyber threats
The Center for Cybersecurity Innovation and Outreach is leading education and workforce projects to protect Iowa businesses and critical infrastructure. Iowa Cyber Hub facilitates collaboration between education providers and companies to provide a cyber workforce. CySim helps organizations practice cyber defenses and prepare for future attacks. ReCIPE helps secure the energy sector. The CyberEd group of faculty and students creates and delivers cybersecurity education and outreach to Iowa and beyond.
The display will showcase CySim and ISU cybersecurity efforts to protect farmers.
Digital agricultural innovation starts here
The scientists of ISU's Digital Ag Innovation are passionate about industry partnerships and enhancing agricultural productivity and efficiency through science-driven solutions. Partnering with Iowa-based companies, ISU Digital Ag is advancing the agricultural technology of tomorrow -- while supporting the workforce needs of Iowa through ag tech-based careers.
Unmanned aerial vehicle and camera systems used in the research will be displayed.
Protecting a $32.5B Iowa industry
Modernizing the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is critically important in safeguarding Iowa's $32.5 billion livestock industry -- and the nation's food supply. The renowned lab provides invaluable expertise on animal health and food safety issues. Funding for Phase 2 of construction will put ISU on the forefront of cutting-edge technology to combat animal diseases.
Supporting America's rare earth independence
Research at the Ames National Laboratory on the ISU campus plays a key role in the nation's secure supply chain of rare earth metals -- important ingredients in many energy-related technologies. Research in rare earth recycling and magnet testing and production has national impact on energy use in transportation, energy storage, consumer electronics and many other areas.
Technology transfer success stories will be highlighted, and samples of magnet and rare earth metals will be displayed.
Extraordinary potential in every county
ISU's Hixson Opportunity Awards Program is one way Iowa State demonstrates its commitment to giving first-generation and low-income Iowa students a chance to do something extraordinary. The Hixson program looks beyond traditional measures of academic success to see student potential. One student from each Iowa county is annually selected based on financial need, essays describing hardships overcome and future goals, and high school recommendations. Those selected receive a half-tuition and fees award, and they participate in programs and services that provide a supportive, potential-fulfilling campus community.
Producing top-notch military leaders
ISU's land-grant roots began with practical education in agriculture, mechanic arts and military science. Since 1870, Iowa State has been a pioneer in military training and education, fostering many officers in successful military careers. Currently, nearly 200 ISU students participate in ISU's three Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) units.
Army, Navy and Air Force ROTC will be represented, and a virtual reality flight simulator demonstrated.
Deere apprentices improve communications skills
The English department partnered with John Deere to create a communication component for the company's welding internship. ISU helped high school apprentices in welding and machinery sharpen their writing and speaking skills through communications training.
A virtual reality weld simulator will be demonstrated.
