Announcements
March 2024
A few Charlie Berens tickets remain
Limited tickets remain for the Friday, April 12, performance at Stephens Auditorium by comedian Charlie Berens. Tickets ($27.50-$49.50 plus fees) pay be purchased online via Ticketmaster or at the Stephens ticket office. Since launching the "Manitowoc Minute" weekly video series in 2017, the Wisconsin native has been featured on Comedy Central, Fox, CBS, Funny or Die, TBS, Variety, MTV News and more. He creates weekly content for his various social platforms and has amassed more than 7.5 million followers.
Rovers at Reiman returns on Tuesdays in April
The popular "Rovers at Reiman" returns every Tuesday in April (4:30-7 p.m.). Guests can bring their leashed dogs for a stroll through the gardens. Normal gardens admissions rates apply (adults $12, free for members and ISU students with ID), plus $5 per dog.
Seats remain for campus digital scholarship symposium
University Library's digital scholarship and initiatives department and the Center for Excellence in the Arts and Humanities are cohosting the inaugural Digital Scholarship Symposium on Wednesday, April 10 (10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.). Faculty, staff and students interested in learning more about digital scholarship are encouraged to attend. It will be held in The Catalyst, the dedicated digital research and learning space in Parks Library, and feature experts who share creative examples of developing digital literacy skills in the classroom and using digital methods to open research to a wider audience. Registration closes Monday, April 8.
Women's history expert to give campus lecture
Scholar and author Sally Roesch Wagner will present "A Stolen History: The REAL Story of the Suffrage Movement" on Wednesday, April 17 (5:30 p.m., Sun Room, Memorial Union). Awarded one of the first doctorates in the country for work in women's studies and a founder of one the first college-level women's studies programs in the country, Roesch Wagner is a leader in the field of women's history and author of several books on the women's suffrage movement. She is the founder and director of the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation, Fayetteville, New York, and teaches in Syracuse University's honors program. In her presentation, she will discuss how many of the issues of today, such as equal pay for equal work and women's reproductive rights, also were those of the women's suffrage movement.
Gardens' annual memberships are reduced through March 31
Reiman Gardens is offering 10% off the normal price of its annual memberships through March 31. For $36 for an individual, $54 for a duo, or $72 for a group (two named cardholders, or one named cardholder and one guest and up to six youth 18 years and younger) you can enjoy a full year at the gardens, discounts on tickets to Spirits in the Gardens (October) and Winter Wonderscape (December), and reciprocal admission to more than 300 gardens across North America.
State science fair for youth is on campus next week
The 67th annual State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa will take place April 4-5 at Hilton Coliseum. More than 600 students in grades 6-12 will present more than 480 STEM research projects. The fair is open to the public, and Friday (April 5) is designated as youth day, targeting nonparticipating students. ISU Extension and Outreach's 4-H Youth Development organizes the fair, with support from public and private partners.
Website is the home for generative AI information on campus
Information Technology Services has launched a new website dedicated to Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) at Iowa State, which will serve as a central source of information related to AI activities on campus. The site includes tools and resources, information about the university's AI committee and professional development opportunities. Faculty and staff can email their AI experiences and suggestions to aifeedback@iastate.edu.
North commuters face lane closures on Grand Avenue
Beginning on Monday, April 1, weather permitting, crews will close the right lane of U.S. 69/Grand Avenue in Ames from north of Bloomington Road to 28th Street (and later, from Murray Drive to 5th Street) for sidewalk, curb and pedestrian ramp improvements. Work will occur weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. In late May, crews will work on asphalt pavement resurfacing. Work hours will be extended once Ames schools are out for the year. This project is expected to be completed by early August, weather permitting.
In mid- to late May, the same type of work will begin on U.S. 69/South Duff Avenue in Ames from South 1st Street to Jewel Drive. Work hours will be overnight Sunday through Friday (7 p.m. to 6 a.m.).
Outstanding student employee supervisor, student employee honored
The office of student financial aid this week honored an outstanding student worker and student employee supervisor for their contributions to campus. The student employee supervisor of the year is Ray Schmidt, senior marketing coordinator at recreation services. Schmidt was recognized for his mentoring, professionalism and leadership provided to student employees. From 39 nominations, a selection committee chose student employee of the year Natalie Young, Center for Food Security and Public Heath. Young was honored for her efforts in community service, collaboration and teamwork, leadership, use of technology and innovation and critical thinking skills.
Undergraduates take their research projects to the Capitol Monday
The 18th annual Research in the Capitol event, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, March 25, will transform the Iowa Capitol rotunda into a showcase for the academic achievements of undergraduates from Iowa's three regent universities. Nearly 60 research projects will be featured; ISU students will present research posters detailing 20 projects ranging from disease threats to apples and pears, to soybean-based polymers that improve asphalt.
Call for participation: Cyclone Family Weekend 2024
Cyclone Family Weekend 2024, scheduled for Sept. 13-15, 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 will assist you during the planning process, promote your event and include it in the official schedule of events. They'll provide attendee estimates as the weekend approaches, handle registration for ticketed tours and share tour locations with registered families. To participate in Cyclone Family Weekend as a campus partner, complete this form by April 15. Questions may be directed to Parent and Family Programs.
Professional clothing donations sought for free shop
The Free Business Attire Pop Up Shop seeks donations of gently-used professional clothing for ISU students to use for their career development. Staff and faculty can bring their donations to 131 MacKay (weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m.). The latest pop-up event just ended, but the need for professional clothing persists! The student organization is collecting business clothing to open a permanent space in the Multicultural Center at the Memorial Union so students can look for professional clothing year-round. Especially needed now are:
- Blazers and suits of all genders
- Bottoms (khakis, skirts, dress slacks): women sizes 0-14 and talls; men 30"-36" waist
- Tops (polos, blouses, button down dress shirts): women sizes XS, S and M; men sizes S and M
- Accessories: solid-color ties, jewelry and sunglasses
- Bags: purses, laptop bags and totes
- Shoes: loafers, boots, flats and classic men's dress shoes
Glass paperweight sale is March 27
Members of the Gaffer's Guild will sell glass paperweights created by ISU students, faculty and community members on Wednesday, March 27 (11 a.m.-2 p.m., near the atrium, Student Innovation Center). Cash, credit cards and checks are accepted.
Campus association supports military-affiliated faculty and staff
A new faculty and staff association is forming for military-affiliated faculty and staff at Iowa State to offer support services and community building for employees connected to the military. Whether currently serving, a veteran of the armed forces, a child or spouse of a veteran, or a supporter of those who have served, all are welcome to join. The Military-Affiliated Facuty and Staff Association will have its first meeting Friday, April 5 (3 p.m., 1230 Environmental Health & Safety Services Building). More information about the group is online.
Sabtu-Schaper named interim finance leader for academic division
Siti Sabtu-Schaper has been appointed interim chief academic business officer in the division of academic affairs. Ellen Reints will retire from Iowa State April 1 as chief academic business officer. Sabtu-Schaper, an Iowa State alumna, has served since 2004 as a budget and planning analyst in the provost's office. In the interim role, she will lead divisional finance initiatives, including budget development and fiscal strategy, capital projects and resource allocation.
24th Street replacement project begins March 25 north of campus
A city of Ames phased project north of campus to reconstruct the 24th Street-Stange Road intersection and adjacent approaches will resume on Monday, March 25. This year, 24th Street from Stange Road east to the railroad tracks will be replaced. Work will continue into the fall. For most of the project, a single lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained. However, a full road closure will be required when work reaches the area of the railroad tracks, anticipated for September. Last year's phase reconstructed Stange Road between 24th Street and Blankenburg Drive.
Day of Insects is Saturday at Reiman Gardens
The 16th annual Day of Insects will take place Saturday, March 23 (8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Reiman Gardens). Presentations from professionals, academics, advocates and enthusiasts are for everyone with an interest in insects, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Tickets, with an optional box lunch, are available online.
Barenaked Ladies concert tickets on sale March 22
Barenaked Ladies will perform at Stephens Auditorium for the first time on Oct. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 22 (10 a.m.) at the Stephens ticket office or online through Ticketmaster. The Canadian rock group is embarking on a U.S. tour this fall with supporting act Toad the Wet Sprocket.
Friday Walk and Talks for employees resume March 22
The ISU WorkLife team resumes hosting its one-mile campus walks on Friday, March 22, and continuing each Friday through May 24. All are welcome to leave your desk for a while, visit with colleagues and enjoy the fresh air. Walkers meet at 12:10 p.m. in front of Beardshear Hall. Adventure2 participants can earn 15 points each week.
Application deadline is May 1 for term faculty development funds
The office of the senior vice president and provost has funds to support professional development of term faculty, particularly faculty with limited professional development support. Awards up to $1,000 help faculty attend a conference, workshop or training (virtual or in-person). Guidelines are online, and the application (online) is due May 1 for conferences or workshops between July 1 and Dec. 31. Recipients will be notified within three weeks. Abstracts for conference presentations need not have been accepted at the time an application is submitted.
College help rooms open March 18 for course registration
The six undergraduate colleges will staff local help rooms for students and staff, primarily during the window that course registration for fall semester is occurring in Workday for the first time. Help rooms are available for walk-ins and virtual live support March 18-April 26. Service schedules will be updated for each week. Registration for fall semester begins March 26 and continues through April 24. The campus community is reminded that 2024 summer term is the final time registration will occur in AccessPlus.
Applications available for Innovation Acceleration Fund grants
The Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations is accepting applications for FY25 Innovation Acceleration Fund grants designed to expand the commercialization of ISU technology. The funds support the development of ISU innovations with commercial potential and help more Iowa State technology reach the marketplace for new or existing Iowa companies. The application deadline is May 24. Selected applicants will participate in a required review panel on June 4 (8 a.m.-noon, ISU Research Park Core Facility, 1805 Collaboration Pl.). Before beginning the application process, applicants are encouraged to contact ISU Startup Factory director Peter Hong, 296-6429, to discuss their idea and potential fit for this funding opportunity.
Goldfinch Room show is March 24
The Iowa Songwriter Showcase at Stephens Auditorium's Goldfinch Room is Sunday, March 24 with a 5 p.m. concert by Heath Church. The Kansas City singer’s music is described as dreamy acoustic-indie. Tickets for a table of four ($40) or general admission ($15) are available online or at the door. Doors open 45 minutes before the show.
SBDC's Shimkat is featured at March 22 lunch club
The Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations' March installment of the Innovation Lunch Club will feature Lisa Shimkat, state director for America's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Iowa. She'll illustrate how SBDC Iowa explores partnerships with rural connectors and economic developers to propel innovation and serve lowa's business owners. The lunch is Friday, March 22 (11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m., training room, ISU Economic Development Core Facility, 1805 Collaboration Pl.). Campus partners are welcome to this free event; RSVP to sdreyer@iastate.edu.
Fulbright virtual info session is March 27
Join Keegan Scott, outreach and recruitment officer, Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program, for an information session on Wednesday, March 27 (noon-1 p.m., via Zoom). Register to receive the link. Learn more about award opportunities and the application and selection processes, and get answers to your questions. The Fulbright U.S Scholar Program offers over 400 awards in more than 135 countries for U.S. citizens to teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects around the world. The application window for the 2025-26 competition is open now and closes in September. Iowa State has many Fulbright alumni and was named a top producer of Fulbright scholars for 2022-23.
Open houses scheduled for new recording, livestream studio in Parks Library
Studio 2B in the lower level of Parks Library is a space to record and livestream professional-quality videos with the click of a button. Faculty, staff and students can use it to capture lectures for online offerings, give research presentations, provide grant updates, create open educational resources and more. The studio includes a teleprompter, lights, height-adjustable table and state-of-the-art glass Lightboard, which allows users to overlay writing on their slides while simultaneously appearing on the screen with content. Studio 2B is open 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Friday (8 p.m. close on Fridays) and additional weekend hours. Hours align with tech lending hours so tech support is always close at hand. Drop by to check out the tech and enjoy refreshments during a Friday open house: March 15, 22 and 29 (11 a.m.-2 p.m.). Review the full studio specs and book today.
P&S councilor nomination window extended through March 15
Nominations will be accepted online through Friday, March 15, for candidates for the Professional and Scientific (P&S) Council. This spring, terms for 20 of the council's 44 seats expire across the four representative divisions:
- Academic affairs: 13 vacancies
- Student affairs: 3
- Operations and finance: 2
- President: 2
Any P&S employee who would like to serve on the council may seek a vacant seat in their division by completing the online nomination form. P&S employees also may nominate a colleague for service on the council using the same form. In either instance, the submitter provides information about the employee's qualifications or experience that would make them an effective council member and advocate for P&S staff. The online election will be held later this month and elected council members will be seated at the group's May 16 meeting.
Work resumes March 11 on CYTown lots
Infrastructure and pavement work will resume during spring break on the future CYTown parking lots and development corridor at the Iowa State Center. Crews will return to the site on Monday, March 11. Commuter lots on the east side of the property won't be impacted. Originally, March 18 was the targeted spring start date for this project.
Is that a spring in your step?
Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 10. Remember to set any manual clocks ahead one hour and plan to lose an hour of sleep. But enjoy daylight into the early evening . . .
Alert eligible fall juniors to Carver scholarship
Twenty Roy J. Carver Scholarships are available to Iowa State students or transfer students who will start their junior year fall semester, and who demonstrate great potential and promise, work hard to make ends meet, or are faced with debilitating circumstances in their lives. Awards average $6,000 and will be considered for renewal for the senior year. Eligibility information is online; the application deadline is April 1; the application includes an essay and two references. Questions may be directed to ISU's scholarship office, 515-294-5625.
John Kasich will present Manatt-Phelps lecture March 27
On March 27, John Kasich -- two-term former Ohio governor (2011-19), two-time presidential candidate (2000, 2016), four-time New York Times best-selling book author and contributor for MSNBC and NBC News -- will visit Iowa State to present the 2024 Manatt-Phelps Lecture in Political Science. Kasich's presentation, "Socially Responsible Innovation," will begin at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union Great Hall. All are welcome to attend.
Organic farming pioneer to present Shivvers Lecture on March 18
Researcher, educator and author John Reganold will present the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture's 2024 Shivvers Lecture on Monday, March 18 (7:30 p.m., 2226 Bessey). He is the Regents Professor of Soil Science and Agroecology at the Washington State University, where he developed its long-time organic and sustainable agriculture major and its Organic Farming Certificate program.
Staff, faculty volunteers sought at food pantry during spring break
With many students away from Ames March 11-15 for spring break, the SHOP food pantry, 1306 Beyer Hall, seeks faculty and staff volunteers next week to remain open during the break for students in need. Volunteers may select their shifts on this SignUp Genius site (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday).
YWCA honors Women of Achievement awardees on March 28
The YWCA Ames at ISU will honor the 12 recipients of its 2024 Women of Achievement Award during a ceremony Thursday, March 28 (6-8 p.m., Reiman Gardens). Tickets are $35 (two for $60) and can purchased from the YWCA office, C1102A Knapp-Storms, 808 Hayward Ave., or at the door.
Arts and events
This academic year marks the 10th anniversary of therapy dogs visiting Parks Library to help students de-stress during prep week.
