Announcements
March 2025
Students: Improve your financial literacy during April (and enter a scholarship drawing)
Vet Med college ranked sixth among U.S. peers
The College of Veterinary Medicine was 12th in the world and sixth among 33 U.S. veterinary schools in a 2025 ranking of best veterinary schools by the British higher education analytics firm, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS). Iowa State is the highest ranked Big XII school. The organization's ranking measures academic and employer reputations and the number of times faculty research papers have been cited by other researchers. 2025 marks the fourth straight year of Iowa State's rise in the QS ranking, up from 13th overall and seventh among U.S. veterinary schools last year.
Procurement services' Quote Desk has new email address
The Quote Desk in procurement services has a new email address: supplierservices@iastate.edu. Any emails sent to its previous addresses (quotesdsk@iastate.edu and quotedesk@iastate.edu) automatically will generate a bounce-back message with the updated contact information. The Quote Desk is how departments promptly and accurately can get answers to various supplier-related inquiries and documentation needs, for example, supplier notifications, change of address, bank notifications, updated W9 forms or certificates of insurance.
Anniversary calendar will honor impactful women in ISU history
To mark the 20th anniversary of its publication, the Carrie Chapman Catt Center's 2026 "Women Impacting ISU" calendar will feature women who left Iowa State before the first calendar was created. Any woman who graduated from or left employment with Iowa State before 2007 is eligible. Nominations of women not already widely recognized on campus for their contributions are especially welcome. Nominations are due by Sept. 28, and a campus vote will follow in early October to select the 2026 calendar honorees. Instructions and a link to the nomination form are on the Catt Center website.
Dairy Science Club introduces ice cream flavors today
Members of the Dairy Science Club are selling ice cream today (11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) outside the north doors to Lush Auditorium in Kildee Hall. Get a cup for $2 (cash only). Try one of the club's new spring flavors: birthday cake, caramel latte, mango, mint chip, Thin Mint and triple chocolate. The ice cream is mixed by club members at the ISU Creamery, and the sale serves as a fundraiser for club activities throughout the year. Interested in having the club's ice cream for your event? Send an email.
ISU receives second Platinum Bell Seal for workplace mental health efforts
For the second year in a row, Iowa State University has been awarded the Platinum Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America, a community-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental health, well-being and illness prevention. Since 2019, the Bell Seal has recognized employers striving to create mentally healthy workplaces for their employees, and recognizes employer advances by awarding Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum seals. Just two in five employers meet the standards for Bell Seal certification. Iowa State underwent a rigorous evaluation of its policies and practices in four areas: workplace culture, benefits, compliance and wellness programs. Iowa State's Platinum certification reflects work in the following areas:
- Expansive employee growth opportunities.
- Competitive and mental health-friendly benefits packages.
- An emphasis on and commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being.
You're invited: Flag-folding ceremony on April 4 closes out LAS Week
To conclude LAS Week (March 31-April 4), Air Force ROTC Detachment 250 cadets will host an official flag folding ceremony on Friday, April 4 (5 p.m., central campus flagpole) to honor both our nation and the Iowa State community. Cadets in full-service dress will demonstrate the traditions and discipline of military service while emphasizing the connection between leadership, service and the diverse academic fields within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. A speaker will share the traditions in the event as it happens. The university community is invited. Iowa State's military tradition dates back to the establishment of ROTC programs in 1919.
Innovative student work sought for IGNITE showcase in May
The Student Innovation Center is looking for groups, classes and organizations to showcase their innovative student work at the IGNITE Innovation Showcase May 5-9. Exhibits, presentations, activities or celebrations are welcome in this showcase of the innovative work of Iowa State students. The priority deadline for submissions is April 9 (for the first round of space assignments), but submissions will be accepted through April 23. The submission form is online.
Friday Walk and Talks resume March 28
Friday Walk and Talk, hosted by the ISU WorkLife team, resumes on March 28. This walking group gathers every Friday at 12:10 p.m. in front of Beardshear Hall to refresh and recharge. Bring your colleagues and enjoy a one-mile walk around campus while chatting with friends, meeting new colleagues or simply appreciating the beauty of the surroundings. Enjoy the fresh air, de-stress from the morning and connect with your ISU colleagues.
Project LEAR/RN workshop set for May 20-21
Faculty, staff and graduate students are invited to participate in the annual Project LEA/RN workshop on Tuesday-Wednesday, May 20-21 (9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, 1022 Agronomy). Participants will uncover what many already know about human learning, share insights about the brain based on current research and its implications, engage in strategies that promote interaction and deep thinking, and apply their new understandings in situations where they facilitate learning -- classes, orientation sessions, extension meetings or any other learning situations they lead. This introductory workshop will not directly address the technology involved with remote and online learning. Enrollment is limited to 20; contact project director Jan Wiersema, associate teaching professor of agronomy, to RSVP or for more information.
It's a first: Story time with Cy
The ISU Book Store is hosting a first-ever story time with Cy the mascot on Saturday, March 29 (10:30-11:15 a.m., bookstore, Memorial Union). Children can enjoy a story reading and photo opps with Cy. Signed copies of "Cy's Perfect Day," written by radio voice of the Cyclones John Walters, and other merchandise will be discounted that morning.
Lawnmower serves days are April 4-5
Members of the Agriculture Systems Technology Club will hold their annual lawnmower service days on Friday, April 4 (1-6 p.m.) and Saturday, April 5 (8 a.m.-1 p.m.), on the west side of Sukup Hall near parking lot 6. This is a routine maintenance service and cleaning for $35 (no riding lawn mowers); club members won't do repairs. Pick up and delivery for Ames-only addresses is an additional $25. Cash or check payment is accepted. Sign up online to schedule an appointment.
Voorhees Supply Chain Conference is April 24
Registration is open through April 16 for the annual Voorhees Supply Chain Conference, hosted by the department of supply chain management, on Thursday, April 24 (9 a.m.-3:30 p.m, Gateway Hotel and Conference Center). Learn from industry leaders who will talk about enhancing supply chain management through artificial intelligence. Featured speakers include alumnus Chad Nelson (2007 degree in economics), associate director of intake, damage and returns reduction at Best Buy. Four credits of continuing education are available.
Suicide awareness walk is April 19
Student Health and Wellness is organizing a suicide awareness walk, "Out of the Darkness," on Saturday, April 19 (registration begins at 9 a.m., campanile south lawn). A 10 a.m. pre-walk program will feature members of the Triangle fraternity and the parents of former fraternity member Jeremy Onyango, who died in October 2022. Teams of walkers are encouraged; volunteers may register to walk or make a donation in support of suicide awareness.
Session presenters sought for extension technology conference in June
ISU Extension and Outreach will host the 2025 conference of the National Extension Technology Community June 2-5 in Ames and is seeking session presentation proposals. At this conference, technology professionals, educators and communicators explore innovative solutions in Extension and beyond. As host institution, the university has a unique opportunity to showcase the work happening in Extension and Outreach and across the university. Employees who have implemented a new technology, creative digital solution or innovative approach in their work are encouraged to submit a proposal by April 18. More information, including the proposal form, is online. The conference is open to all; Iowa State's institutional membership provides a discounted registration fee.
Be a part of strengthening arts, culture in Iowa
Iowa State is the site for the Iowa Arts Council's final (of seven) 2025 Regional Arts Forum, on Friday, April 4 (9 a.m.-noon, Reiman Gardens). Local artists, arts and civic leaders and community members will discuss opportunities for strengthening arts and culture in their region and across the state. The forums are free and open to the public, and registration is highly encouraged. Register online in advance and select the Ames location.
Provost's office seeks faculty director for honors program, undergraduate research
The office of the senior vice president and provost is seeking internal applicants to serve as faculty director of the University Honors program and direct Iowa State's undergraduate research program. The individual in this three-year, 0.75 FTE appointment will help develop the Honors curriculum, foster partnerships with academic colleges and departments for both programs, mentor students and chair the University Honors committee, among other duties. Applicants must be tenured faculty on full-time appointments who have been at Iowa State at least five years. Applications are due April 4, and the successful applicant will be notified by May 15.
Travel/events showcase is April 1
Procurement services will host its 2025 Travel and Event Services Showcase on Tuesday, April 1 (noon-3:30 p.m., MU Sun Room). Connect with external suppliers and university resources who can assist with your travel and event planning needs, including travel expense reimbursement, event rentals, materials, signage and space. Bring your ISUCard for check-in and a chance to win door prizes.
Innovation lunch club meets virtually on March 28
The March edition of the Innovation Impact Lunch Club (postponed from February) will feature ISU Research Park associate director Alison Doyle. It will meet virtually on Friday, March 28 (11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; RSVP to receive the link in an email). Learn more about how the research park connects people and drives innovation in central Iowa. The free series is hosted by ISU's office of economic development and industry relations especially for its faculty and staff partners, but open to all.
Inter-Residence Hall Association collects accolades at regional meeting
The Inter-Residence Hall Association received several honors at the recent regional business conference of the Midwest Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls, held at the University of Nebraska, Kearney:
- Iowa State received the School of the Year award, the highest honor member schools can receive, in recognition of outstanding achievements on the campus level by a residence hall organization and affiliated groups, as well as contributions on regional and national levels. IRHA qualifies for the National School of the Year award at the National Association of College and University Residence Halls conference in May.
- IRHA board members Braden Fels, Chase Davis and Julia Pedroza won first place in the case study competition, in which representatives have to collaborate and find solutions to common scenarios present in hall government spaces.
- IRHA president Braden Fels was elected as the regional director of the Midwest Affiliate for the 2025-26 year, and Martin Hall director Casey Dworzynski was confirmed as the regional advisor.
Digital accessibility webinar canceled
The Siteimprove webinar, "Making Sense of Accessibility: Mastering WCAG Principle 3 for Understanding Design," scheduled for Thursday, March 13, has been canceled.
Panelists to discuss IT services for research teams
The Research Project Management Council will host a panel presentation for P&S staff who manage large research projects on Tuesday, April 1 (3 p.m., via Zoom). The topic is IT services related to research. Register to receive the Zoom link. The presenters are:
- Ciarán Bowe, security compliance manager at IT Services, who helps researchers navigate security-related regulations and contractual obligations.
- Andrew Albinger, senior manager of research technology, who manages two IT teams: one focuses on research technology and one on high performance computing.
Each will summarize services provided by their teams related to research and respond to questions. Topics of discussion could include data storage, sharing and security; data visualization; available software; and contracting with ITS staff for specific work related to your project.
Register by March 20 for gardens' Day of Insects
Reiman Gardens invites nature lovers, entomology enthusiasts and families to experience the incredible world of insects at its 17th annual Day of Insects on Saturday, March 29 (8 a.m.-4:20 p.m.). Registration ($24; $38 with box lunch) is required and the deadline is March 20. Enjoy a full schedule of engaging presentations and hands-on activities, with experts sharing their knowledge on topics such as mosquito factories, insect conservation, honeybee behavior and more.
Research Project Management Council's next meeting is May 6
The Research Project Management Council, supported by the office of the vice president for research, will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, May 6 (3 p.m. via Zoom, register to receive the link). Raissi Raineri, veterinary microbiology and preventive medicine; and Ásrún Kristmundsdottir, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, will lead a discussion of tools that can assist the PI or project manager in keeping track of activities and managing their to-do lists and schedules.
The council is open to all P&S staff who manage sponsored research projects or programs. The intent is to bring together these professionals to share best practices, address common challenges and foster a supportive network that advances the success of research initiatives. The group's direction is guided by the needs and priorities of its members, ensuring that the council remains responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities. Contact Nicole Scott or Stacy Renfro with questions.
Register now for April 15 youth programs symposium
Registration is open through April 11 for Risk Management's Youth Programs Symposium on Tuesday, April 15 (8:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m., via Zoom). This free event is designed to provide information, support and inspiration for youth program leaders and other interested faculty, staff and stakeholders who work with youth programming at Iowa State. The final schedule and link will be emailed to all registered participants after April 11. As a reminder, session proposals from those who'd like to present at the symposium are requested by Friday, March 28. More information for presenters, including the submittal form, is online.
Federal, state laws prohibit university support for employee networks
Iowa State University will discontinue support in its current form for employee networks after receiving new guidance indicating this support may violate federal and state laws. The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights has directed educational institutions to cease any benefit based on race, following a recent legal interpretation of federal non-discrimination laws. Additionally, state officials have indicated 2024's Iowa Senate File 2435 broadly prohibits activities designed or implemented with reference to race, color, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation.
The university will end support in its current form for all employee networks, effective March 14. This includes operating grants, communication and marketing tools, technology support and web resources. Members of employee networks may continue to associate as informal groups independent of the university.
Ames' snow ordinance takes effect at 11 p.m. Thursday
The city of Ames' snow ordinance will go into effect at 11 p.m. Thursday, March 6, and remain in effect until 8 a.m. Saturday, March 8 -- but may vary depending on plowing conditions. Crews most likely will make multiple passes on streets Friday until the snow stops falling. Vehicles on city snow routes (identified by red and white signs) should be moved to off-street parking or to streets not designated as snow routes. To assist with the plowing effort, owners are asked to not park vehicles on any residential street, particularly on circles and cul de sacs; however, only vehicles parked on snow routes risk being towed.
With warmer temperatures anticipated next week, the snow is expected to melt rapidly. Residents can help prevent street ponding and overnight refreezing by making sure storm sewer intakes near their property remain clear of snow, slush and brush.
Daylight saving time starts March 9
Daylight saving time returns at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 9, providing light later in the evening and less light in the morning. Adjust clocks forward one hour before retiring on Saturday night.
Call for participation in fall Cyclone Family Weekend
Cyclone Family Weekend 2025, scheduled for Oct. 10-12, aims to help families strengthen their connection to Iowa State while spending valuable time with their student. University departments and units are invited to participate in several ways:
- Organize a tour. Showcase your college, department or facility with a guided tour for Cyclone families. Highlight unique features, programs and opportunities at ISU, giving families an insider's perspective of campus life. Tours typically are ticketed events, and capacity and number of tours are the host's discretion.
- Host a reception or social event -- an open house, meet-and-greet or cultural showcase that creates opportunities for meaningful connections and interactions.
- Facilitate family-friendly activities such as workshops, demonstrations, recreational outings and more.
The staff in Parent and Family Programs can assist with planning, collaborate on events and include your event in the official schedule of events. To participate in Cyclone Family Weekend as a campus partner, complete this form by April 1. Questions may be directed to Parent and Family Programs.
Nominations sought for youth program annual awards
Nominations are open through March 28 for three annual Youth Programs Awards to be presented at Risk Managment's virtual Youth Programs Symposium on April 15. The awards recognize exceptional contributions by those who have made a lasting impact on youth programming during the 2024 calendar year:
- Youth Program Leader of the Year: Recognizes an individual who has created impactful and memorable experiences for youth participants and volunteers, inspiring growth, fostering a positive environment and contributing to the overall success of the program.
- Outstanding Youth Program of the Year: Celebrates a program that has delivered exceptional youth programming, and stands out for its creativity, effectiveness, culture of safety and overall positive contribution to youth development.
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Youth Program Staff Member of the Year: Honors an employee or volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and effort within a youth program. The individual consistently exceeds their responsibilities, ensuring events run smoothly and supporting the program's success in every way.
Wednesday update: Classes move online, campus partially closed
Due to the forecast for blizzard conditions, Iowa State will partially close and classes (day and evening) will meet virtually on Wednesday, March 5. Students should check email and Canvas for additional information from their instructors. All academic buildings will be locked; those who need access should contact the ISU Department of Public Safety, 515-294-4428. Parks Library, the Memorial Union and Rec Services facilities will be closed. Classes will resume in-person instruction on Thursday, March 6. Updates will be posted on the ISU Alert website.
Supervisors should provide maximum flexibility for their employees to work remotely or take leave. If remote work is not an option, consider training opportunities that employees can complete remotely. During a partial closure, the university will maintain the following services: police/public safety, power plant, residence halls, food service, health care, animal care and critical maintenance, including ongoing research projects.
Grad Mixer Wednesdays partners with colleges this spring
Grad Mixer Wednesdays is collaborating with a different college each Wednesday of March and part of April to address important topics for graduate students. Ivy College of Business is hosting "Growing Your Professional Skillset" on March 5 (1-4:30 p.m., 4237 Student Innovation Center) with topics such as building your brand and the student perspective on academic versus industry job seeking. The College of Engineering will host "Engineering the Future: Innovation, Collaboration and the AI Revolution" on March 12, and the College of Health and Human Sciences will discuss "Shaping the Future: Advancing Research, Teaching and Funding" on March 26.
P&S classification, compensation structures are focus of March seminar
The P&S Council will continue its professional development seminar series on Thursday, March 13 (2-3 p.m., LeBaron auditorium) with a presentation of Iowa State's P&S classification and compensation structures by Emma Mallarino Houghton, director of compensation and talent acquisition, university human resources. The session will cover topics such as managing and updating the structures, organizing jobs in the compensation structure, and how a market-based approach is used to build the compensation structure. Register online.
