CEDAR FALLS, IA
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2025
VOLUME
Proposed Panther District to add hotel, restaurant, retail to UNI campus, Cedar Falls
150th Class SPOTLIGHT
Dyshaun Daniel, Wisconsin native, finds home at UNI in Class 2025
By Estelle Johnson Executive Editor
Editors
Note: UNI is marking its 150th anniversary this academic year. As the newspaper of record on campus, the Northern Iowan is launching a weekly feature profiling members of the sesquicentennial class.
Dyshaun Daniel is a member of the sesquicentennial class at the University of Northern Iowa.
Dyshaun Daniel is a freshman psychology major who was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. She is the first in her family to attend the University of Northern Iowa.
“I love Madison; it’s my home and always will be,” said Dyshaun. “But when you’re there for so long, you eventually want to get out and explore other things, which is why I chose UNI.”
She almost didn’t choose UNI, though.
Before Dyshaun officially decided to be a student here, she thought she wanted to attend Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
“I’m so glad that I am able to be on a campus where I can just be myself,” Daniel added. “I began to realize that if I attended an institute such as Viterbo, I wouldn’t be able to be the person I felt I was – and am today.”.
Another reason Dyshaun chose UNI is because of the neighboring state initiative – which was announced during the summer, and launched
this academic year. As a part of this initiative, Dyshaun pays the same tuition amount as an instate student.
For her future at UNI, Dyshaun is looking forward to becoming her true self, and finding comfort within her own being.
Dyshaun said, “I believe we as humans can be so much and accomplish so much, and where we’re at in our lives right now is only the starting point for the growth, potential, and possibilities that lie ahead.”
Dyshaun is part of the sesquicentennial class, which will be graduating in 2029.
“Just knowing that we are continuing on the legacy of the alumni that came before us is awesome – and I think is something really special.”
Beside her studies, Dyshaun is an avid reader and social media user. “I feel like social media has kind of always been integrated in my life, just because I was given a phone at such a young age.”
Like many students, Dyshaun is active on Tik -
Estelle Johnson/Northern Iowan
Dyshaun Daniel is a first-year student of the sesquicentennial class.
Tok. Dyshaun and her friends recently created a video that went viral. “We did this trend where you pose, and then knock on someone’s door, and when they open, we pose – then they have to join you at the next door.” Dyshaun said. “It actually went viral and has over half a million views and 114k likes.”
Proposed Panther District to add hotel, restaurant, retail to UNI campus, Cedar Falls
The University of Northern Iowa is proposing a mixed-use development known as Panther District that would add an exciting mix of restaurants, retail establishments, a hotel and housing options to the Cedar Falls community.
This project would be the latest major construction development on the city’s west side in recent years, a list that includes the new Cedar Falls High School that opened in 2024, as well as multiple additions to the Cedar Falls Industrial and Tech Park that spans both sides of Hudson Road just a few blocks south of the UNI campus.
“The Panther District represents another fabulous opportunity for UNI to help enhance our already vibrant Cedar Falls community,” said UNI President Mark Nook. “The Panther District will provide dining, shopping and social opportunities for UNI students and members of the public attending sporting and arts events at UNI and Cedar Falls High School.”
Additional details regarding the proposed project, including a Request for Qualifications for developers, can be found at PantherDistrict.com.
Potential developers have expressed interest in constructing this complex on the west side of Hudson Road, directly across West 27th Street from the McLeod Center. Once an agreement with a developer is finalized, the university will begin the process of obtaining all necessary approvals from the Iowa Board of Regents.
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Construction could potentially begin as soon as those approvals are obtained, contracts are finalized and the developer is ready.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the City of Cedar Falls,” Mayor Danny Laudick said. “We often talk about how we can lean into our heritage and connection with UNI, and the Panther District is a great opportunity to do that. It provides a new type of experience for students and visitors coming into town for events nearby, and it builds on the incredible quality of life and unique amenities that we continue to invest in through our mixed-use districts like Downtown and College Hill.”
In addition to the location’s proximity to performance venues on the UNI campus such as the McLeod Center, the UNI-Dome and the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, the Panther District would be just two blocks east of Cedar Falls High School. That location would make it a very attractive destination before and after events at those venues. Additionally, the Panther District would be easily accessible for students, faculty, staff and visitors to UNI and Cedar Falls.
“The Panther District is exactly the kind of bold, vibrant development that energizes a community,” said Grow Cedar Valley President and CEO Katy Susong. “UNI plays a critical role in attracting people to the Cedar Valley and when
EDITORIAL STAFF
LILY MUNNIK News Editor munnikl@uni.edu
COHEN KAMAUS Sports Editor kamausc@uni.edu
MICHAEL SPAHN Sports Editor Assistant spahnm@uni.edu
LUIS ALVAREZ Spanish Editor alvarlaa@uni.edu
MACI SWANSON Head Photographer maciswan@uni.edu
PRODUCTION STAFF
JENNA WESTENDORF Webmaster
ADVISERS
ANELIA DIMITROVA anelia.dimitrova@uni.edu
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CIRCULATION
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we create places that make them want to stay, the entire region benefits. This project strengthens the connection between campus and community, supporting the talent pipeline and the local economy alike.”
UNI views the Panther District as yet another amenity to help attract students, employees and businesses to Cedar Falls. While the city already boasts a wide variety of existing dining, retail and housing options, a project of this scale would represent an exciting development west of Hudson Road. And developers have indicated to UNI officials that new construction built to specifications in this area is preferable for a variety of reasons, as opposed to reconfiguring existing space in the city.
The housing aspect of the project is being designed as a market rate option for the area workforce and not for UNI students. The university is also working on plans to better familiarize fans attending events on campus with alternative parking areas within easy walking distance of the McLeod Center and the UNI-Dome.
Further details regarding the project will be released once finalized.
The Northern Iowan is published weekly on Wednesday during the academic year, except for holidays and examination periods, by the University of Northern Iowa, L011 Maucker Union, Cedar Falls, IA 506140166 under the auspices of the Board of Student Publications. Advertising errors that are the fault of the Northern Iowan will be corrected at no cost to the advertiser only if the Northern Iowan office is notified within seven days of the original publication. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement at any time. The Northern Iowan is funded in part with student activity fees. All material is © 2025 by the Northern Iowan and may not be used without permission.
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LILY MUNNIK News Editor
Courtesy of InsideUNI Images are conceptual renderings only. The selected project developer and UNI will collaborate on the final design.
TheatreUNI announces 2025-26 season
INSIDE UNI
The UNI Department of Theatre is thrilled to announce a full four-show lineup for TheatreUNI’s 2025-26 season, which includes a range of productions for every theatrical taste.
The season begins with “Marian, or the True Tale of Robin Hood” (Oct. 24–Nov. 2). Modern concerns and romantic entanglements clash on the battlefield and on the ramparts of Nottingham Castle in this swashbuckling comedy about freedom, finding oneself, love deferred, and the fight. Always the fight.
Next up is “POPPED!” (Dec. 6–13). “POPPED!” is an interactive celebration of storytelling and imagination, inviting families and young book lovers to embark on a journey where stories leap off the pages, dreams take flight, and the magic of reading knows no bounds.
For its first show of the spring semester, TheatreUNI will present the musical, “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812” (March 5–29). From the celebrated and award-winning composer Dave Malloy, this electropop opera is based on a scandalous slice of Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace.”
For its final production of the season, TheatreUNI will present “Witch” (April 24–May 3) by Jen Silverman. In this inventive retelling of a Jacobean drama, Jen Silverman’s sharp, subversive fable debates how much our souls are worth when hope is hard to come by.
Tickets are currently on sale. Show details are available at theatre.uni.edu and tickets can be purchased online at unitix.uni.edu or at the box office in StrayerWood Theatre on the UNI campus. Tickets are free for UNI students.
UNI recognized as a transfer-friendly institution for eight years in a row
The University of Northern Iowa has been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s Transfer Honor Roll for its eighth year in a row, recognizing the dynamic pathways UNI has created to support transfer students.
The Transfer Honor Roll is determined by 40 key metrics related to the support and success of transfer students, including college cost and financial aid, campus life, admission practices and bachelor’s degree completion. The Honor Roll includes the top 25% of the highest-rated colleges, as determined by a Transfer Friendliness Rating.
INSIDE UNI from an Iowa community college to earn a UNI bachelor’s degree online. This program has more than doubled its growth since its launch in 2022, with 534 students currently enrolled in fall 2025. Future Ready Awards are available to UNI@IACC students, covering the difference between UNI and community college tuition.
Students interested in
transferring can also benefit from UNI’s Transfer Connection, which provides personalized guidance on course selection, degree progress and other academic goals to help students from community college to UNI with confidence.
Adding to the appeal for many prospective students, UNI recently introduced the Neighboring State Rate,
which offers in-state tuition to new undergraduates from the six states that border Iowa — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota. This initiative expands affordable access to a UNI education and creates even more opportunities for transfer students from across the region.
“I’m proud of the transfer outcomes we’re seeing at
these Honor Roll colleges,” said Dr. Lynn TincherLadner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “These colleges are doing more than just opening doors — they’re walking students through them. Their commitment to creating clear, supportive pathways demonstrates what’s possible when student success is truly the priority.”
“This recognition reflects UNI’s deep commitment to helping students succeed, no matter where they start their journey,” said Terri Crumley, director of Admissions at UNI. “By creating clear transfer pathways, expanding online options, and offering personalized support, we’re removing barriers and making it easier than ever for students to finish their degree at UNI.”
One of the ways UNI ensures a seamless transfer experience is through the UNI at Iowa Community Colleges (UNI@IACC) program. This initiative allows placebound and adult learners with an associate’s degree
N.I. EN ESPAÑOL
Consejos de estudio para el regreso a clases
Los estudiantes deben aprovechar al máximo los recursos y espacios de estudio que ofrece la UNI en el campus. Entre los lugares de estudio más populares se encuentran la Biblioteca Rod, Maucker Union y cafeterías fuera del campus como Sidecar Coffee.
LUIS ALVAREZ
Editor de. N.I. en Español
¡Bienvenidos de nuevo, Panthers! Volver a clases y retomar la rutina puede ser todo un reto, especialmente cuando intentan equilibrar su vida académica con su vida personal. Aquí les compartimos algunos consejos y trucos para estudiar, además de los mejores lugares para concentrarse y sacar adelante sus materias este año escolar.
Uno de los puntos más importantes al estudiar por largos periodos es tomar descansos. Hacer pausas mientras estudian es como tomar agua durante un entrenamiento deportivo. Su cerebro necesita ese tiempo para relajarse después de tanto esfuerzo antes de volver a concentrarse.
Tener un horario semanal les ayuda a asegurarse de que tienen suficiente tiempo para estudiar. Les da una rutina que les hace sentir más productivos y les garantiza tiempo para preparar sus clases. Pueden usar una
agenda física o aplicaciones de calendario. Su cuenta de Google de UNI incluye un calendario que puede usar para planear su semana y encontrar los momentos que mejor se adapten a ustedes. Uno de los mejores lugares para estudiar en el campus es la biblioteca Rod. Tiene muchos espacios cómodos en la planta baja para estudiar solo o en grupo. También pueden rentar salas en el tercer piso si prefieren un espacio pequeño y tranquilo. Para trabajos en equipo, hay salas más grandes disponibles. Además, la biblioteca cuenta con una cafetería llamada Book Bistro, donde pueden comprar una bebida o un snack para acompañar su sesión de estudio.
Otro buen lugar para estudiar es Maucker Union. Tiene una zona de comida rápida para almorzar y una tienda de conveniencia si solo quieren un snack. Hay varios espacios para estudiar, y si se van detrás de la cafetería Chat’s Coffee, encontrarán una zona más
tranquila para estudiar con una vibra relajada. Si prefieren salir del campus, Sidecar Coffee está cerca y tiene un ambiente muy
idad están reteniendo más información. Una forma útil de estudiar en grupo es hacer tarjetas de repaso y ponerse a prueba entre ustedes.
Recuerden que su objectivo principal en UNI es obtener una excelente education que los prepare para el exito en la vida despues de graduarse
– MARK NOOK Presidente Universitario
agradable para tomarse un café y estudiar con calma. Estudiar con otras personas puede ayudarlos a sentirse menos solos. Incluso pueden engañar a su cerebro haciéndole pensar que solo están pasando el rato con sus amigos, cuando en real -
Le pedí al Presidente Nook que compartiera unas palabras de ánimo para los nuevos estudiantes que llegan a la universidad este otoño: “Recuerden que su objetivo principal en UNI es obtener una excelente educación que los prepare para
el éxito en la vida después de graduarse. Eso implica estudiar, pero también construir redes sociales y relaciones personales que sigan más allá de la universidad. Así que involúcrense. Conozcan a sus profesores y ayúdenlos a conocerlos a ustedes. El personal docente y administrativo de UNI está entusiasmado por conocerlos y apoyarlos para que tengan éxito aquí y después de graduarse. Visítenlos en sus horas de oficina, siéntense al frente en clase, hagan preguntas. Las organizaciones estudiantiles y comunitarias ofrecen una gran oportunidad para formar amistades, así que únanse a una organización estudiantil en el campus o busquen una iglesia o organización local que necesite ayuda y ofrézcanse como voluntarios. UNI les brindará oportunidades que no encontrarán fuera de una universidad, y estas les darán grandes beneficios en su vida profesional y personal después de graduarse, aprovechenlas.”
Foto de Cortesia
BY ESTELLE JOHNSON Executive Editor
In the mood for a hamburger or cheeseburger?
Head to Big Head Burger in Waterloo. The restaurant was a top 10 finalist in Iowa’s Best Burger contest in 2024 – and it’s easy to see why. Big Head Burger has a 4.7 star rating on Google, but you’ll have to try it for yourself to understand.
Honorable mention: Whiskey Road in Cedar Falls serves up specialty burgers and a build-your-own option. If you’re looking for a fancier burger experience, Whiskey Road is right up your alley. For Panthers 21 and over, Whiskey Road has a plethora of signature drinks to choose from.
For a classic deli sandwich, head to Sub City on College Hill. We all know the sandwich trifecta – Subway, Jersey Mike’s and Jimmy John’s – but Sub City brings something special to the game. Originally started in New Jersey, Sub City found a home in the Cedar Valley after founder Bob Dickson opened the first local location in 1985 on 23rd Street. Now, there are locations in Marshalltown, Waverly, Waterloo and Cedar Falls. It’s hard to explain just how good it is. The meat and cheese are sliced fresh in front of you, and you can taste the difference. If you ever see Sports Editor Cohen Kamaus on campus, ask him about his love for Sub City.
Editor’s choice: The tastiest restaurants in the Cedar Valley
My personal favorite is Urban Pie in Cedar Falls. Their crab rangoon pizza is one of the best things I’ve ever eaten. The pizza is flavored just like an authentic crab rangoon, with a sweet chili drizzle that ties all of the ingredients together. The best part? You leave feeling full and happy, not greasy and gross.
Honorable mention: Chad’s Pizza on College Hill is a great option for classic pizza, loaded with cheese and toppings. From specialty pies to plain cheese pizzas, there’s something on the menu for everyone at Chad’s Pizza.
Looking for something lighter? Greenhouse Kitchen on College Hill offers salads, burritos and rice bowls, along with chips, queso and guacamole. If you are a ranch lover, this is your place. My go-to order: a salad base of mixed greens with cucumber, carrot, cheese, sprouts and steak – all topped with their homemade ranch. I’m a huge fan of their steak, as it’s seasoned to perfection and pairs well with cold ranch. Greenhouse is my favorite place to eat when I want something fresh and high-quality.
A hidden gem on College Hill is Mirch Masala Grill, located between Chad’s Pizza and Greenhouse Kitchen. The food is rich in flavor, filling and reasonably priced. If you’ve never tried Indian cuisine, Mirch Masala is a great place to start. Order the garlic cheese naan – you will thank me later. Their menu is full of options for every tastebud, and you can tell that the food is fresh. The employees are quick to take orders, and cooks are ready to whip up your food in the kitchen. I highly recommend Mirch Masala Grill to anyone who enjoy Indian cuisine.
Taco lovers should stop by Zury’s Taco Bar on College Hill. Not only is the business proudly family-owned and operated, but the food is out of this world – flavorful, filling and well-priced. You can tell the cooks are in the kitchen making your meal with love. I highly recommend Zury’s Taco Bar to the taco-loving Panthers.
Honorable mention: Rudy’s Tacos in Waterloo is another favorite, offering generous portions at a fair price. Be sure to check out the eccentric decor that adds to the dining experience. It’s a unique spot beloved by locals, and the food is worth a trip to Waterloo.
Moo’s Bakery has the best chocolate chip cookies I’ve ever had – and they’re vegan. The cookies are soft, fresh and topped with flakey seat salt. Head baker Maddie Palmersheim, who started at the Cedar Falls Farmers Market, opened Moo’s on College Hill recently. You may have seen her popular TikToks on your feed. I tell everyone: Moo’s has the most delicious cookies in the Cedar Valley. In addition to cookies and other baked goods, Moo’s offers chai and matcha drinks that are popular among students at UNI.
Part of the experience of living in the Cedar Valley is knowing the best restaurants that serve your favorite cuisine.
UNI Homecoming 2025 announces live entertainment, parade dignitaries
Homecoming festivities formally kick off UNI Sesquicentennial celebration
BY INSIDE UNI
The University of Northern Iowa is gearing up for an especially monumental Homecoming this fall, complete with special guests and exciting entertainment to paint the town purple.
The week of festivities will mark the official kickoff of the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration, which will continue for more than a year, as the university honors its proud past and bold future.
This year’s Homecoming Bash will feature a performance from Marshall Charloff & The Purple xPeRIeNCE, the most celebrated tribute to Prince in the world. Founded in Minneapolis by Charloff and Matt “Doctor” Fink (keyboardist from Prince & The Revolution), the band has performed for more than 1 million fans in its 14-year history. Catch “Purple Rain” and other Prince hits during the Homecoming Bash held on Friday, Oct. 3.
The annual Homecoming parade will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. in downtown Cedar Falls. The grand marshal will be Drew Conrad, the 2025 winner of the Heritage Honours Alumni Service Award, a recognition for UNI alumni with long and continuous service to the university and the community. Conrad is also the new executive director for Business & Community Services, which is the economic development outreach
arm of the Wilson College of Business, and longtime director of BCS’ Institute for Decision Making.
Randy Pilkington and Cary Darrah, the co-chairs of the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration, will serve as
parade dignitaries. Both have deep ties to university.
Pilkington, a UNI alum, has worked at the university for nearly 40 years, most recently serving as the executive director for Business and Community Services prior
to Conrad’s July appointment. Darrah, a Cedar Falls native and community leader, has family and professional connections to UNI through her previous roles with Grow Cedar Valley and Community Main Street.
“Homecoming is a truly special time each year, but our 2025 festivities will mark the start of our biggest celebration to date,” said UNI President Mark Nook. “Preparations for the kickoff of our sesquicentennial celebration have been underway for a while, and it will be exciting to see so many families back in Cedar Falls. Whether you’re a current student, an alum or a member of the community, this is definitely an occasion you don’t want to miss.”
UNI Homecoming will feature many sesquicentennial festivities, including the Ringing of the Sesquicentennial Bell, the grand opening of a dedicated sesquicentennial museum exhibit, architectural walking tours, Distinguished Alumni Awards and football in the Dome starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday. For a complete look at the Homecoming schedule, visit homecoming.uni.edu.
‘Tradition Meets Tomorrow’ is theme for UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration
BY INSIDE UNI dents, their families and alumni to honor the history of the institution. New campus traditions will be created while honoring the traditions that unite all Panthers.
The University of Northern Iowa welcomes all to celebrate its 150th year as an institution, announcing the UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration, kicking off more than a year of activities and signature events. Festivities officially begin when UNI’s 150th class enters the university this fall.
The theme of the celebration, “Tradition Meets Tomorrow,” captures the spirit of this 150-year journey, reflecting on how UNI has evolved from its earliest days to a forward-thinking institution preparing students for tomorrow’s challenges.
The UNI Sesquicentennial Celebration will include Homecoming festivities in 2025 and 2026, along with several signature events. Dedicated exhibits in the UNI Museum and satellite campus locations will welcome stu-
Several campus milestones will occur during the celebration including 25 years of the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, 50 years of the UNI-Dome, 100 years of the Campanile, and the culmination of Our Tomorrow: The Campaign for UNI – the largest fundraising endeavor in the institution’s history.
Co-chairing the steering committee for the effort are Cary Darrah, who has a long career of supporting the Cedar Valley through numerous roles and volunteer positions, and Randy Pilkington, who holds two degrees from UNI and has worked at the university for nearly 40 years.
“Our ultimate goal is to elevate the profile of UNI,” said Pilkington. “We hope to increase connections locally and across the state, while growing and enhancing relationships with alumni, communities and friends.”
“The Panther family extends well beyond the UNI campus and Cedar Falls. That’s why it is so important that this celebration stretches to encompass the full breadth of the Purple Circle,” said Darrah.
UNI’s history officially begins when the Iowa General Assembly approved the establishment of the Iowa State Normal School on March 17, 1876. Its first classes were held on Sept. 6, 1876. Since that time, the institution has been known as the Iowa State Teachers College, the State College of Iowa, and finally the University of Northern Iowa.
COURTESY PHOTO
An aerial view of the Homecoming 2024 parade, where many student organizations and local businesses walked.
Stay up to date on plans for the UNI Sesquicentennial
Celebration by visiting 150. uni.edu.
COURTESY PHOTO
Back-to-school studying tips for new and returning Panthers
BY ALLY KNIGHT Staff Writer
Coming back to school and getting back into a routine can be challenging, especially when trying to balance school and personal life. Here are some studying tips and tricks, and good places to do homework around campus.
One of the most important things to do while studying is to take breaks. It is just like taking a water break during a sports practice –your brain needs time to relax.
Having a weekly schedule helps with making sure you have enough time to study. It gives you a routine so you feel more productive and guarantees you time to study for classes. Physical planners or calendar apps are common among many university students.
One of the best study spots on campus is the Rod Library. Rod has many cozy spots on the main floor, for studying by yourself or with others. Students can rent out rooms on the third floor of the library if they like having a small, quiet space to yourself. Additionally, students are able to rent bigger rooms for group projects. The li-
students study
brary also has a coffee shop called Book Bistro, where students can get a drink or a snack for a study session.
Another study spot on campus is Maucker Union. Maucker has a food court inside, so Panthers can grab lunch. There is a small convenience store named Essentials if hungry Panthers are looking for something quick.
The Union has many places to study, like behind Chat's coffee. If going off-campus, Sidecar Coffee on College Hill has a very
pleasing aesthetic for a cup of coffee and some relaxing study time.
Studying with other people can help one feel less alone while working on assignments. It can trick minds into thinking you're just hanging out with your friends – when in reality, it's helping you retain more information.
I asked President Nook to give some encouraging words for the new students coming to the university this fall. Nook said, “Remember that your primary goal at
UNI is to get a great education so you are set for success in life after you graduate – that means studying, but it also means building social networks and personal relations that will last well beyond graduation.”
Nook added, “So, get involved – and get to know your faculty members, and help them get to know you.
The faculty and staff at UNI are eager to get to know you and help you succeed here and after you graduate. Go and see them during office hours, sit in the front of the
classroom, ask questions.”
“Student organizations and community organizations offer a tremendous opportunity to build lifelong friendships, so join a student organization on campus, or find a local church or organization that could use some help and volunteer,” Nook said. “UNI will present you with opportunities that you can't find outside of a university, and these will pay big dividends in your professional and personal life after graduation - take advantage of them.”
COURTESY PHOTO/INSIDEUNI
Four
together in a dorm room located on UNI campus. Visitors can find many UNI students studying with friends in Rod Library and Maucker Union.
Panther fans show off purple and gold spirit while tailgating
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
The first football game of the season marks the beginning of many seasons: dance team, marching band and color guard. Each student plays an essential role in their organization, and many look forward to performing their hard work for the crowds.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
Hungry Panthers cooked up burgers on a Blackstone grill prior to the football game on Sat., Aug. 30. The UNI Panthers earned their first victory of the season.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS Panther Mayhem, the student section organization at UNI, promotes athletic event attendance for every sport. Students can easily spot Panther Mayhem members by their purple and gold game day overalls, which are sold in the UNI Bookstore. During the game, students can be heard chanting and cheering for their favorite team, the UNI Panthers. With Panther pride, UNI conquered the Butler Bulldogs from Indiana, 38-14.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
An ultimate football fan: football earrings, mardi-gras beads and a Panther koozie. The first football game of the season is when Panther fans go all out on dressing up in their team colors — accessories, clothes and face paint fill the UNI-Dome.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS Panthers come in all shapes and sizes — including canines! This French Bulldog was dressed up in UNI gear, and ready to tailgate with their owners before the game.
SPORTS
2025 NFL Season Predictions
COHEN KAMAUS Sports Editor
After six long months, the NFL is finally back. Fans across the country are ready to settle in and watch their favorite teams and players battle for the sport’s ultimate prize: the Lombardi Trophy. Like so many others, I couldn’t be more excited for this season, not just because my team enters as the defending Super Bowl champions, but because this truly is the best time of the year. With opening night quickly approaching, it’s time to break down the contenders, the pretenders, and everyone in between. From division winners and playoff teams to award races and, of course, a Super Bowl pick, here’s how I see the season unfolding.
AFC EAST - BUFFALO BILLS
Entering the season, the Buffalo Bills have the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl. Led by the 2024 MVP Josh Allen, the Bills will look to continue their dominant run of winning the AFC East, a feat they’ve accomplished the last five seasons. I don’t expect anyone to pose a real threat to them, as Buffalo clearly has the best roster in the division. I think the New England Patriots are still a year or so away from contending for a playoff spot, and I think the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets should start looking at the draft boards for next offseason
AFC NORTHBALTIMORE RAVENS
For the past few years, the AFC North has been the best division in football. Fueled by the rivalries between all four teams, games are always interesting when these teams clash. The Baltimore Ravens are the favorites to bring home the division crown, but the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers are not far behind. The Ravens are the most complete team, and I think the Bengals’ lack of defense and the Steelers’ lack of offense will be their downfalls. Give me Lamar Jackson and the Ravens narrowly taking the top spot.
AFC SOUTHHOUSTON TEXANS
The AFC South will be one of the biggest storylines this NFL season for quarterbacks. For starters, it’s home of the No. 1 overall pick from April’s draft in Titans quarterback Cam Ward. Daniel Jones won the job for the Colts, and CJ Stroud of the Texans and Trevor Lawrence of the Jaguars look to bounce back after down seasons a year ago. I think any team in this divi-
sion could get hot and earn a playoff spot, but the Texans have proven they are the best team of the bunch.
AFC WEST - KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
The Chiefs came up a game short of a three-peat this past winter. Then they got dismantled by the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX. Now they’ll try to make it back to the postseason for the 11th straight season. Standing in their way is one of the toughest divisions in football, featuring two playoff teams from a season ago in the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos. Many have doubted and picked against the Chiefs to win their 10th straight AFC West crown, and I will not be one of those people. I trust Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, and a newly engaged Travis Kelce to get it done yet again.
NFC EASTPHILADELPHIA EAGLES
After a shaky start to the 2024 season, the Eagles set the league on fire after their early bye, topping it off by raising their second Lombardi Trophy in the last seven years. Now they look to turn the page and do it all over again. Their defense lost some key depth pieces, but much of the team nucleus returns, giving them a good chance of winning backto-back NFC East titles, a feat that hasn’t been done since the Eagles did it in 2001-2004. The Cowboys trading away their best player also helps, and the Commanders aging roster points to some regression after a very successful season last year. The Eagles are the safest and best pick here.
NFC
NORTH - GREEN BAY PACKERS
This is the best division in football. The Detroit Lions are the reigning NFC North champions, but after losing both coordinators, are in a state of uncertainty for the 2025 season. The Packers made the trade of the year by acquiring star pass rusher Micah Parsons from the Cowboys, and drafting Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden will help quarterback Jordan Love progress. The Vikings filled the trenches to help protect their young signal caller, JJ McCarthy, to go along with their elite defense. The Bears brought in Ben Johnson and his offensive creativity to try and elevate the play of former No. 1 pick Caleb Williams. I think I’d be better off by drawing a random name out of a hat to decide a winner for this division, but I’ll go with the
Packers because of their offseason acquisitions. And plus, I love cheese!
NFC SOUTH - TAMPA
BAY BUCCANEERS
Featuring one of the best offenses in the league, the Buccaneers come off a first place finish from a season ago. Baker Mayfield has had back-to-back career seasons for the Bucs, passing for 41 touchdowns last season. The Panthers and Falcons both look to improve with their young quarterbacks, while the Saints look to sift through quarterbacks to find theirs of the future. I can see a world where either the Falcons or Panthers overtake the Bucs for the division, but I think they’re just a better team.
NFC WEST - SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
The wild, wild NFC West is always so hard to predict.
Every team can make a case for why they’ll be this year’s winner. The Rams return after nearly knocking off the Eagles in the Divisional round of the playoffs last year. The 49ers look to bounce back after a season decimated with injuries left them in dead last. The Seahawks signed free agent Sam Darnold in the offseason to replace Geno Smith, and the Cardinals look to keep building under young coach Jonathan Gannon. Just because of their easy schedule, I am going to take the 49ers to win the division, but I think the Rams are a more complete and better football team.
MOST VALUABLE
PLAYER - JOE BURROW
A season ago, Joe Burrow put up MVP-like numbers. 43 touchdowns and 4,918 yards, all while completing 70 percent of his passes. So why did he not win the MVP? His team missed the playoffs, mainly because of his team’s pitiful defense. While it is not a requirement for your team to make the postseason to win the award, it certainly helps. I think Burrow puts up similar numbers to his of last season, but this year the Bengals make the playoffs, boosting his stock and giving him his first MVP in his young career.
SUPER BOWL PICKBALTIMORE RAVENS
As much as I’d love to pick my team to win the Super Bowl again, I know how hard it is to repeat, and I know the odds are stacked against them to do so. With that being said, I think they return to the big game, but come up a little short. I think this is finally the year the Ravens break through. After all the years coming up short, I think Lamar Jackson finally plays his best football when he needs to, and the Ravens lift up their third Lombardi Trophy.
COHEN KAMAUS Sports Editor
COURTESY/IMAGN IMAGES
Saquon Barkley, who led the NFL in rushing yards last season, was voted as the No. 1 player in the league.
UNI XC opens season at Iowa State
CARTER LUST Sports Writer
As the air becomes crisper and the leaves begin to change, cross-country athletes nationwide prepare to showcase their summer training for the annual “grass” season. With the seemingly countless early morning miles, afternoon doubles, and late gym sessions behind them, the first meet of a cross-country season is an opportunity for runners to show off the base they have built during the off-season. Before the tune-up and major speed work commence, you always have a starting point –an exciting time in the season.
After a historic 2024 campaign, the University of Northern Iowa men’s and women’s cross-country teams looked to build off last year’s momentum heading into the 2025 season. Despite heavy losses up front due to graduation, both squads welcomed back a large amount of returning talent this fall. On Friday, Aug. 29, the Panther men and women made the short trip south to Ames, Iowa, to compete in the Cyclone Preview for their first competition of the season. Since it was the first meet of the year, the men stepped down from their usual 8-kilometer long race to kick off rust over the 6k distance. Similarly, the women ran a 5k instead of their normal 6k. The meet featured solid competition from Iowa State and Drake University, as well as from local community colleges. With three months of racing ahead, the Panthers set a strong tone for the year on a
cool, almost-fall morning. The UNI men leapt from their starting boxes at 8:30 a.m., where sunny skies and near 70-degree temperatures accompanied the morning humidity. The Panthers finished fourth out of just the four complete teams at the small event, but left plenty of things to look forward to on the course. To start, Colin Lille ran a lifetime best over in the 6k, covering the course in 18:33.0 and leading UNI with a 14th-place individual finish. Although the Panthers’ returning runners, Carsen Owens
and Chase Lauman, did not race, Lille and sophomore teammate Micah Rees showed that Northern Iowa could have a couple of strong packs to run in this season. Rees also ran a personal best of 18:38.9 on his way to finishing 16th overall. Newcomer Ethan Olds was the third Panther to cross the finish line, etching 18:58.8 for 20th place –a solid debut for the freshman. Drew Dombrosky was not far behind Olds, clocking 19:03.8 and finishing 23rd. To round out the scoring runners for UNI, Jackson Bergman
claimed 30th place in 19:24.7. Trailing Bergman was a trio of Panthers led by Jonas VanDis, who ran 19:27.7 for 31st place. Josh Gormley was closing in on VanDis with a time of 19:31.2 for 32nd overall. Freshman Brayden Picken completed the Panther quartet with his 33rd-place finish in 19:36.1. To wrap things up for the UNI men, seniors Kon Dut and Jayden Dickson secured 44th and 46th place in 20:35.9 and 20:49.0, respectively. The Northern Iowa women took the ISU Cross-Country Course at 9a.m., where the sun
began to beat a little harder than just a half-hour earlier. However, the slightly warmer temperatures didn’t affect the Panthers, who stormed to a second-place finish as a team. Senior Millie Hill led the way for UNI as the 9th overall finisher in a personal best of 17:35.0 over the 5k distance. The sophomore duo of Leah Klapatauskas and Meghan Wheatley were just tenths of a second apart, each running 17:45.8. The time was a new all-time best for Klapatauskas, and a stellar career opener for Wheatley. Klapatauskas placed 10th while Wheatley was the third Panther scorer in 11th.
Another duo of Northern Iowa women finished backto-back, as Kaylee Woolery and Sarah Federson took 15th and 16th place, respectively. Woolery earned her spot with a time of 18:17.3, and Federson followed it up with an 18:25.3. Freshman Evie Henneberry had a solid collegiate debut en route to running 18:28.3 for 18th place. Brooke O’Brien was the seventh Panther across the line, finishing 21st in 18:30.2. Finally, a trio of UNI women concluded the top 25 overall finishers. Josee Simonson claimed 23rd in 18:40.9, Clare Wright 24th in 18:45.4, and Kayla Young in 19:10.6.
The Northern Iowa men’s and women’s teams will return to action on Sept. 12 at the Rebird Invitational. The meeting will provide the first opportunity for the Panthers to face off against other Missouri Valley Conference opponents in Peoria, Illinois.
UNI volleyball splits weekend games
The Panthers started out their weekend of competition against the Arizona State Sun Devils. UNI opened the match with a fast tempo, etching a 3-0 lead before the Sun Devils made their way back. Northern Iowa fell behind by as many as seven points, but was able to make their way back thanks to six first-set kills from Lily Dykstra and four from Maryn Bixby. The Panthers would make it within one at 20-19 and again at 24-23, but fall short in the first set with a final score of 25-23.
The second set saw a close battle between the two teams to start before Arizona State went on an 8-0 scoring run before UNI got within one at 8-7. Dykstra, Cassidy Hartman, Calia Clubb, and Bixby helped to pace the
offense for the team, but errors worked against the Panthers as they dropped the second set 25-16 against the Sun Devils. Arizona State started the
third set on a 5-1 run before Northern Iowa was able to make its way back and tie it at 10-10 and 12-12. The Sun Devils would go on to close
out the set strong and slow the momentum of the Panthers, finishing the third set with a score of 25-16, thereby sweeping the Panthers.
Saturday’s matchup against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits would see things work in favor of the Panthers.
The first set saw UNI struggling with service errors that led to SDSU taking an 11-7 lead and two separate 4-0 runs to gain a 5-point lead at 19-14.
The Panthers were able to pull it within one at 24-23, but despite six kills from Hartman and three from Clubb and Dykstra, the team came up short in a 25-23 first-set loss.
Offense started clicking for Northern Iowa in the second set as Hartman and Dykstra continued to pace the Panthers with a 4-0 early lead. The Jackrabbits faced any errors in the set, which allowed UNI to pull ahead and keep the
lead. Jadyn Petersen secured an ace on a 7-0 scoring run for the team that launched the Panthers to a 25-16 second-set win.
The third set saw momentum moving in favor of UNI as they secured 14 team kills. Petersen saw two more aces fall in her favor as the Panthers used a 10-1 scoring run to grab the lead at 16-9. South Dakota struggled with attack errors that allowed Northern Iowa to capitalize on and take the set, going up 2-1.
Heading into the fourth set of the night, UNI’s offense helped boost them on a 9-4 scoring run. Dykstra had five kills in the set as Hartman, Lindsay Oldendorf, Bixby, and Isabelle Elliot each added two kills to help boost the Panthers to a set four win with a score of 25-18 and an overall 3-1 win against the Jackrabbits to close out the weekend.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
The Panthers return to action on Sept. 12 at the Redbird Invite.
NICOLE WATERS Sports Writer
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
The Panthers return to action on Sept. 4 for the SMU DoubleTree Invitational.
Scheck-mate: Panther QB shines in season
MICHAEL SPAHN Sports Editor Assistant
The Northern Iowa football team opened regular-season play with a dominating 38-14 victory over the Butler Bulldogs. It was the debut for new head coach Todd Stepsis, notching his first win as a Panther in the record books.
“I’m so proud to be a part of this thing,” Stepsis said postgame. “There was a time in every coach’s career when not a whole lot of people believed in them. I’m just eternally grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this program and this community.”
The Panthers had an electric day offensively, scoring five touchdowns, four of which came through the air. Early in the first quarter, quarterback Matthew Schecklman found tight end Derek Anderson in the back of the end zone to give the Panthers a 7-0 lead. The Bulldogs responded with a touchdown of their own, but the Panthers quickly regained the lead on their next offensive possession with a field goal by Max Bartachek to make it 10-7.
The Panthers had success with the running game against the Bulldogs, rushing for a team total of 222 yards. After going down 14-10 in the middle of the second quarter,
Schecklman and running back Bill Jackson both had 21-yard rushes to put the Panthers in the red zone. Running back Harrison Bey-Buie finished the drive with a one-yard rushing touchdown to give the Panthers a 17-14 lead.
Jackson, a Tulsa transfer, rushed for 84 yards, establishing himself as a focal point of the offense in his first game as a Panther.
“I was calm going into it and was excited to see all the fans out there,” said Jackson post-game. “I had a great experience.”
Out of the break, the Panther offense continued its momentum through the passing game. Schecklman found senior receiver Tysen Kershaw for a wide-open touchdown, extending their lead to 24-14. The Panther defense stepped up tremendously in the second half. With the Bulldogs approaching the red zone, Joe Hall III intercepted a pass from Butler quarterback Regan Andrew. Senior captain Tucker Langenberg, who led the team with 12 tackles, was proud of how the defense responded from the first half.
“There’s always going to be frustration, but I think the team that comes out on top is the team that can stay calm,” said Langenberg. “I think we did a good job in the second
half, and it obviously turned out how we wanted it to.”
After the turnover, Schecklman avoided pressure from the Bulldogs and found JC Roque Jr. for a 26-yard touchdown, extending the Panther lead to 31-14. The Panthers kept their foot on the gas on the next possession.
Schecklman found Ayden Price over the middle for a 25-yard touchdown, extend-
ing the lead to 38-14, which would evidently be the final score.
Schecklman is the first Panthers quarterback to throw for four touchdown passes since Theo Day in 2023 versus Youngstown State. In his first start of 2025, he proved his worth as the starter in game one of the season.
“He’s shown us since the spring,” Coach Stepsis said
postgame. “He’s got a great arm, and he can make every single throw from every different angle.”
The Panthers start the 2025 campaign 1-0. The team will travel to Laramie on Saturday to take on the Wyoming Cowboys at 3 p.m. CT on The Mountain West Network.
COURTESY/UNI ATHLETICS
Schecklman lit up the scoreboard for the Panthers, throwing for 214 yards and four touchdowns in their 38-14 win.
Across
1) Talk big
5) Yin counterpart
9) Certain advanced degrees (Abbr.)
13) Continental cash
14) Sigmund's daughter
15) Get on, as a horse
16) They're a form of consumer protection
18) Ship's lowest deck
19) They may pop up while you browse
20) Human ending
21) Coffer, in architecture
23) Make tea
25) Bank, at times
28) California white oak
31) One of a temporary 20 in children
33) Obtain, as support
35) Cows' digs
36) Where you may see a suricate
37) It can be ear-piercing
38) Goad
40) Australian Prime Minister Sir George
41) Employment ad letters
42) Tabloid topic, often
43) First female to swim the Channel
45) She's more than a babysitter
48) Cartoon mirages
49) Hardest hit to get
50) Hillock
52) Thin nails
54) One-time Camaro rival
55) A U.S. time zone
58) Ferber novel
60) It has reddish-orange flowers with black spots
63) Apologize and then some
Down
1)First name in horror flicks
2) Felt remorse
3) Word in an Ernest Hemingway title
4) Sentimental drivel
5) New Haven student, informally 6) Garland for the head, formerly 7) Weather report abbr., perhaps
8) Fight for air
9) "West Side Story" Oscar winner
10) They're used to make the grade 11) A year in the Yucatan 12) "The racer's edge"
15) Some Louvre attractions 17) Observer's record
22) Basic hydrocarbon
23) Used the banister, in a way
24) A Plymouth colony founder
26) French star
27) Sort of scholar
28) Take umbrage
29) One place to promote a new CD
30) County fair award, perhaps
32) Fifth zodiac sign
34) Like a span of oxen
39) Scala of "The Guns of Navarone"
40) Do one of the three R's
42) Mammal's coat
44) Certain Red Cross volunteer
46) Water source
47) Type of bag
51) Volunteer state sch.
53) Big first for a baby
55) "La Bohème" role
56) Tireless carrier
57) Actress Daly
58) Swayback's woe
59) Member of a Platte River people
61) Choler
62) Builder's buy
SUDOKU ANSWERS
