Announcements for Faculty and Staff

Honors program poster presentation, convocation are May 1

Reiman is open late for spring blooms

Reiman Gardens will remain open until 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays April 18-20 and April 25-27 so more visitors can enjoy thousands of tulips and other spring flowers in full bloom. Regular admission prices apply. The gift shop will be open until 7:30 p.m. those evenings. 

Volunteers sought for food pantry on-call list

The SHOP, Iowa State's on-campus student food pantry, would like to expand its on-call list for when it is short-staffed with volunteers. To be added to the list, email shop_exec@iastate.edu and say you would like to be added to the on-call list. SHOP relies heavily on volunteers, and in the past year the demand for services has grown substantially. Each month, SHOP receives about 1,000 visitors and distributes more than 14,000 pounds of food. Volunteers are needed during Tuesday delivery times (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on first, third and fifth Tuesdays, time varies on second and fourth Tuesdays) and during open hours:

• Monday, 1-6 pm.
• Wednesday, 2-7 p.m.
• Thursday, 4-7 p.m.
• Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

You're invited: Distinguished Awards celebration is April 19

Help celebrate the university's highest awards by attending the annual Distinguished Awards celebration on Friday, April 19 (2 p.m., MU South Ballroom). The ceremony is open to the public. Details about the awards given to alumni and friends through the ISU Alumni Association and ISU Foundation, as well as livestream information, is online.

Reminder: Provost candidate forums start today

Four finalists for Iowa State's senior vice president and provost leadership post will interview on campus this month. The first, Elizabeth Wentz, dean of the Graduate College and vice provost, Arizona State University, visits campus April 15-16. Campus forums are consistently at 3 p.m. on the candidate's first day on campus. The administrative searches website will share the finalists' names and vitae the day prior to their arrival.

Woodcarvers gather at Reiman Gardens April 20

The Mid Iowa Woodcarvers Show comes to Reiman Gardens on Saturday, April 20 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Visitors can view woodcarving contest entries, watch carving demonstrations and join a hands-on lesson in whittling. Attendees pay normal gardens admission.

LeBaron Hall construction is focus of April 25 meeting

Facilities planning and management (FPM) will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, April 25 (9-10 a.m., via Microsoft Teams) to share information about the LeBaron Hall replacement project with those who work in or visit buildings near the construction site on the northwest edge of the central campus lawn. The presentation will focus on construction activities and their impact on campus circulation, including nearby buildings. The meeting will include time for Q&A. Email FPM project manager Liz Clarke by April 24 to receive the meeting link.

Undergraduate research symposium is April 16

The 18th annual Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression will be held Tuesday, April 16 (8 a.m.-6 p.m., Student Innovation Center). A day-long celebration of undergraduate research, the symposium provides undergraduates from all academic disciplines an opportunity to share their research with the university community through conference-style oral and poster presentations. Attendees are encouraged to review the symposium schedule and symposium program with abstracts and come to support undergraduate researchers. Faculty or staff interested in moderating an oral session may sign up at this link. Questions may be directed to Svitlana Zbarska, undergraduate research program coordinator campuswide, 515-294-2064.

Design art club's spring sale is April 17-19, earlier than usual

The CODAC (College of Design Art Club) spring sale of work by students in integrated studio/visual arts and club members will be held Wednesday and Thursday, April 17-18 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), and Friday, April 19 (10 a.m.-2 p.m.), in the foyer inside the main entrance to the College of Design. Find unique gifts for upcoming spring and summer celebrations -- or something for yourself. A majority of proceeds go to the artists, while the rest help fund club activities such as workshops, field trips and guest speakers.

Reminder: Applications due April 15 for fall family weekend

Cyclone Family Weekend 2024 (Sept. 13-15) aims to help families strengthen their connection to Iowa State while spending valuable time with their student. ISU 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; capacity and number of tours are the host's discretion.
• Host a reception, 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.

To participate in Cyclone Family Weekend, complete this form by April 15. The staff in Parent and Family Programs will promote your event in the official schedule, provide attendee estimates as the weekend approaches, handle registration for ticketed tours and share tour locations with registered families. Questions may be directed to Parent and Family Programs.

Translational AI Center is the focus of April innovation lunch

The Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations' April installment of the Innovation Lunch Club will feature Jessica Bell, program manager at Iowa State's Translational AI Center. Learn what the center is and how it can work for you. The lunch is Friday, April 26 (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.

Celebrate ISU Extension and Outreach Week April 15-20

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Week is April 15-20. Iowa's 100 county extension offices will host "I Spy Cy" activities and educational events throughout the week to thank Iowans for their support of ISU Extension and Outreach across the state.

Register for suicide awareness walk on April 27

Student Health and Wellness is organizing an "Out of Darkness" Walk for Suicide Awareness on Saturday, April 27 (10 a.m., registration opens 9:15 a.m., south campanile lawn). The walk follows sidewalks on campus, and if it rains, will move indoors to State Gym. Registration is free; walkers who raise $100 in donations receive a walk shirt (there isn't a requirement to raise funds). Register to walk (individual or group); volunteer to assist at the event. Questions may be directed to Jeffrey Nelson, suicide prevention coordinator in student counseling services, 515-294-0153.

Author on homelessness to give keynote at campus symposium

Gregg Colburn, associate professor in the University of Washington's Runstad department of real estate and co-author of the book, "Homelessness is a Housing Problem," will present a keynote lecture on the same topic on Thursday, April 18 (5 p.m., 0101 College of Design). It's part of Iowa State's 2024 Homelessness Symposium, hosted by the department of community and regional planning.

Hach's Thiel atrium to be dedicated April 17

The university community is invited to the dedication of of the Thiel Atrium, Hach Hall, on Wednesday, April 17 (5-6 p.m.). The atrium honors former Distinguished Professor in Liberal Arts and Sciences Pat Thiel, who had appointments in chemistry and materials science and engineering, and also was a scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy's Ames National Laboratory. Thiel died Sept. 7, 2020, from breast cancer.

Ugandan baskets for sale in the Workspace April 8-20

The Workspace in the Memorial Union and the Uganda Alliance Club are hosting a pop-up basket sale April 8-20 (2-9 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, Workspace, east basement, MU). Purchase a handmade basket created by members of the Tusubila ("hope") crafts group, and directly support women artists and their families in Kamuli, Uganda. Baskets are made with dried raffia and banana leaves and sell for $10-$25.

This initiative began through ISU's Uganda Program. Students studying abroad saw that market access was limited for the basket artists and formed the Uganda Alliance Club. Students work with the Tusubila group to bring baskets to the United States, sell them and send the money back to the artists.

Plant-a-Row for the Hungry lunch and learn is April 9

Reiman Gardens will host a lunch and learn on Tuesday, April 9 (noon-2 p.m.) on the Plant-A-Row for the Hungry food donation program. Learn how gardens' staff, volunteers and local food pantries work together to address food needs in Story County. Bring a lunch to listen while representatives from Growing Together Iowa talk about their efforts and the state's food needs. Light refreshments will be available. Registration is requested.

New prep week event will promote healthy study habits, student wellness

The division of student affairs is hosting the first Cy's Finals Frenzy April 28-30 to promote healthy study habits and personal wellness for students ahead of final exams. Held in the Memorial Union and outside spaces around the building, the frenzy will offer study sessions, tutors and Supplemental Instruction leaders on site, quiet and group study rooms, free food and stress-relief activities including a smash room, crafts from the Workspace, free bowling and more. The event will be held all day on Sunday, April 28 (including a late night breakfast) and the evenings of April 29-30. Watch for volunteer opportunities for faculty and staff to support this event in next week's Inside.

Encourage your student employees to celebrate 'their' week

The Student Employment Center, part of the office of student financial aid, is sponsoring several events daily to celebrate National Student Employment Week, April 8-12. Options include free food options daily, wellness and career readiness workshops, virtual trivia with prizes, free headshots, cash cab and a session with therapy dogs. Units that employ students are asked to encourage their students to participate.

Tickets on sale for April 20 fashion show

Tickets ($16-$31) are on sale via Ticketmaster for The Fashion Show 2024 on Saturday, April 20 (7 p.m., Stephens Auditorium). The event features dozens of student designs modeled by students and several guest judges/designers. From press releases to stage lighting, The Fashion Show is produced entirely by students from many majors working on 15 committees.

Two 'Question, Persuade, Refer' trainings offered this month

Two final sessions this semester of "Question, Persuade, Refer" mental health training for faculty and staff will be held April 5 and April 19 (both 11 a.m.-noon, 1312 Gilman). Learn to recognize the warning signs of suicidal individuals, learn tips for persuading others to access support and learn more about local referral resources. Register online (select option 2: register myself to attend a presentation or training).

Exhibitors sought for new student picnic in August

Destination Iowa State, Aug. 22-24, is three days of high-impact programming for more than 4,000 new-to-Iowa State undergraduates to help them explore campus, make connections with their peers and the university, prepare for classes, experience Iowa State traditions, discover ways to be healthy and safe, and join Cyclone Nation. To help welcome them, departments, student organizations and other units are invited to be exhibitors at the kickoff picnic on Thursday, Aug. 22 (3:30-7:30 p.m., outside Hilton Coliseum). More information, including the application form, is online. Preference is given to applications received prior to May 10. Questions may be directed to Jordan Baumgardner, new student programs, 515-294-5714.

Confirm teaching assignments, then submit course material requests

Faculty who will teach a summer session or fall semester course are asked to submit all materials needed for class -- textbooks, courseware, eBooks, coursepackets, subscriptions and supplies (design, lab, PPE, technology, etc.) as soon as their teaching assignment is confirmed. Include courses for which there are no textbook requirements or where open educational resources (OER) will be used. These lists should be submitted to your department academic coordinator, who shares them with the textbook team at the ISU Book Store or through the ISU Book Store's adoption platform. No department coordinator? Contact Emma Hartman, 294-0362. The bookstore team provides custom book lists to students after course registration. Published textbook and course material requirements can be found online.

As shared March 21 in Inside Iowa State, effective fall 2024, all required textbooks for undergraduate courses will be part of Immediate Access ONE, a one-program, one-price, day-one access program where students receive all their required books for one flat rate. For more information about the program, contact immediateaccess@iastate.edu.

Northbound I-35 entry ramp at 13th Street to close April 8-12

In connection with the city of Ames' sanitary sewer extension project on 13th Street east of Interstate 35, the northbound entry ramp onto I-35 will be closed Monday-Friday, April 8-12 (weather permitting). Drivers should follow posted signs for the preferred detour route.

Lawn mower service days are this weekend

The Agricultural Systems Technology Club will hold its lawn mower service days April 5-6 (1-5 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, west side of Sukup Hall). This routine service for lawn mowers includes oil and spark plug change and blade sharpening. The cost is $35 for a push mower; no riding mowers. Mower pick-up and delivery is available in Ames zip codes for an additional $25; email astservicedays@gmail.com to schedule a pick-up.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.