NI 09-16

DORM SAFETY

TRIOBLIQUE

KURT WARNER

Police Chief Helen Haire discusses safety with on-campus housing.

A new jazz trio composed of UNI music professors has emerged on campus and beyond.

UNI alum Kurt Warner returns to campus for the retirement of his jersey.

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA CEDAR FALLS, IA THURSDAY, APRIL 5 VOLUME 114, ISSUE 42

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

CEDAR FALLS, IA

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

‘They’re looking phenomenal’

UNI Enrollment numbers reach highest level since 2020

By Lily Munnik Executive Editor The University of Northern Iowa is seeing its strongest enrollment numbers in several years, with total enrollment hitting 9,366 students this fall — making it UNI’s highest total enrollment since 2020.

The increase comes as UNI also reports its largest incoming freshman class since 2017.

A total of 1,709 freshmen enrolled at UNI this fall, which is a 10.3% increase from 2025.

The university’s new student enrollment also reached its highest level since 2017, with 3,426 new students joining UNI this academic year.

Total undergraduate enrollment increased to 7,390 students, the highest it’s been since 2021.

The growth comes during a year when enrollment at Iowa’s other two public universities has declined among incoming freshmen. The University of Iowa and Iowa State University both reported freshman classes that are down 5% from last fall.

At UNI, total student enrollment is up 1.7% from a year ago. New transfer enrollment also increased by 5.6%.

“I was looking for a bet-

ter opportunity,” said recent transfer student and UNI men’s basketball player Ian Smikle.

“UNI has a winning program and a winning history, and Coach Kyle Green is a great guy.”

For students beginning their college careers this fall, the decision to attend UNI can be attributed to a variety of reasons, including academics, campus size, location and cost.

“I chose UNI because it was close by and I wasn’t ready to leave home yet. Also tuition is basically paid for me,” said Waterloo native Sanai Scott.

The university has also expanded access to its in-state tuition rates. UNI offers Iowa’s in-state tuition rate to freshman and new transfer students from Iowa’s neighboring states, a policy university officials say has contributed to this year’s enrollment growth.

“Our Neighboring State Rate makes UNI an even more attractive destination for families across our region,” said UNI President Mark Nook in an InsideUNI news release.

See ENROLLMENT, page 7

Photo Courtesy/University of Northern Iowa Students gather for first day of class photos, some repping signs that say “My first day as a Panther” and “First day of Class.”

Everything you need to know about the UNI Botanical Center

By Delaney Von Ahsen Staff Writer Sitting amongst the tall greenery, with the quiet sounds of water and an occasional squawk from the birds — this may be the next place you prepare for a difficult test or complete an assignment that has been stressing you out.

The Botanical Center at the University of Northern Iowa is a great place to visit and learn about all things nature, but it is also a great place for students to go and do homework or meet new people.

The UNI Botanical Center has a long-standing legacy, first opening its doors under the names “Biological Greenhouse” and “Biology Greenhouse” sometime in the mid-1980s. The name difference was created to distinguish the parts of the building used for classes from the ones used for

growing plants. The UNI Board of Trustees made the ultimate decision to begin constructing a new greenhouse for the school on July 24, 1906. The Normal Eyte (1892-1911), now the Northern Iowan, published an article praising the new plan for building the greenhouse, mentioning the additions the greenhouse will add to the science curriculum for the school. The impact of the greenhouse began even before it was built.

The Botanical Center is open to anyone in the Cedar Valley community, not just students and faculty. They offer 35- to 45-minute staff-led tours for pre-K-12 students with no cost to the educator.

These tours can be ecosystem-focused or specific to a certain learning objective.

Guests are also always welcome from Monday

to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., to visit the greenhouse and learn about the variety of plant material in the Botanical Center. They also offer tours to localized groups, such as retirement communities, wellness programs and artist associations.

The Center is not just used for students to learn about plant material for biology students; it can also be used for community learning or to enjoy the sights of the plants and animals. The oldest living plant material there today are the male and female Ginkgo trees, which were planted in 1937 and 1938. They still reside in the Botanical Center 88 years later in the courtyard.

See CENTER, page 3

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NEWS SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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FAITH VANDENBERG News Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

Community & crafts

Why students should visit the Cedar Falls Farmers Market

By Ulyana Karplyuk Assistant News Editor The Cedar Falls farmers market is essential to the city’s community. Local vendors offer everything from organic produce to handcrafted jewelry.

For many, it’s a go-to place to do your grocery shopping, grab a tasty foodtruck bite, discover new vendors and even people-watch. In the early weeks of the school year, it’s where UNI Panthers seek a laid-back start to their weekend and engage with the local community off campus.

If you are looking for a reason to visit the market anytime soon, here are a few vendors that might catch your eye: TwoMorrows Flower Co. TwoMorrows Flower Co. is run by Jeff and Molly Morrow, UNI alumni residing in Denver. For eight years now, the couple’s goal has been to provide sustainably grown flowers to the community.

A new face for the market is The Little Blueberry bakery. Run by McKenzie Blue Hendrickson, the business has been steadily growing in popularity. Hendrickson started it a little over a year ago, after moving back to Cedar Falls.

Ulyana Karplyuk/Northern Iowan Some of the floral arrangements from TwoMorrows Flower Co.

mixes of seasonal blooms, sure to satisfy many people’s tastes in floral arrangements.

What makes the Morrows come back to the market each week is the local community. “There are always people out. It’s a social event,” said Jeff Morrow, the co-owner. So, if you’re looking for a way to bring some color to your dorm or apartment, make sure to stop by.

The Little Blueberry

Ulyana Karplyuk/Northern Iowan The TwoMorrows Flower Co. stall at the Cedar Falls Farmers Market.

Initially, the Morrows started as produce farmers, but with time they found more joy and interest in growing a wide variety of flowers. Now, their booth at the farmers market is one of the most eye-catching ones. The bouquets feature

NORTHERN IOWAN L011 Maucker Union Cedar Falls, IA 50614 www.northerniowan.com northern-iowan@uni.edu 319.273.2157

LILY MUNNIK

Ulyana Karplyuk/Northern Iowan McKenzie Blue Hendrickson poses with one of her baked goods.

EDITORIAL STAFF

PRODUCTION STAFF

FAITH VANDENBERG

JENNA WESTENDORF

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CIRCULATION ELIJAH HIETBRINK Circulation Manager

Keshia Rae Creations If you’re on the lookout for local crafts, rather than food, the market can certainly accommodate that. It’s a home to many vendors specializing in all sorts of jewelry.

One of them is Keshia Cooke. She started her business in 2020, and this is her third year at the market. With previous experience in the jewelry industry, Cooke’s passion for handmade crafts began with pottery. “[After that] I started diving down into metal,” said Cooke.

Cooke’s crafts include a range of accessories such as earrings, bracelets and necklaces. You can also find custom embroidered shirts and sweatshirts at her booth.

As we quickly approach the middle of September, students have only a few opportunities left to enjoy the farmers market, which ends in October. If you want to support local businesses and Ulyana Karplyuk/Northern Iowan grow your sense of belonging to the McKenzie Blue Hendricksons menu board after 17 minutes of business is nearly empty. Cedar Falls community, the farmers market is the perfect place for you.

Visit the Cedar Falls farmers market This is her first year at the city’s at Overman Park through Oct. 31, on market. “[Working at the market is] over- Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to noon. whelming, but [I’m] extremely grateful,” said Hendrickson. Every week, she looks forward to seeing familiar faces, whether it’s regulars or her students from Cedar Falls High, where she teaches a class called “Foods” part-time.

As a culinary school graduate, Hendrickson adds a variety of different flavor profiles to her bakes. “I love trying new things,” she said. It also explains why the most popular item on the menu is the blueberry streusel roll.

The line for homemade rolls of all sorts of flavors is probably one of the longest ones you’ll see at the market. If you want to try a new Cedar Falls sweets spot, make sure to get to the market early, as the booth tends to sell out very quickly.

Recently, all of Hendrickson’s rolls for Ulyana Karplyuk/Northern Iowan Some of the jewelry that can be purchased the day sold out in just 17 minutes.

ZACH MINEART OLIVIA HARRINGTON Assistant News Editor harringo@uni.edu

ULYANA KARPLYUK Assistant News Editor karplyuu@uni.edu

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ADVISERS ANELIA DIMITROVA anelia.dimitrova@uni.edu

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from Keshia Rae Creations.

The Northern Iowan is published weekly on Wednesday during the academic year, except for holidays and examination periods, by the Northern Iowan under the auspices of the Board of Directors of the Northern Iowan. 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 © 2026 by the Northern Iowan and may not be used without permission.

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Send submissions to northerniowan@uni.edu.

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NEWS

LILY MUNNIK Executive Editor

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

CENTER

continued from page 1

“Outside of our main purpose, which is providing fresh plant material for biology classes, anyone in the Cedar Valley community can walk through the greenhouse, get a little sunshine on their shoulders, and kind of have a mental health reset,” said Stephanie Witte, the manager of the Botanical Center.

In the summer of 1909, the aquarium was renovated to include two large concrete pools. One pool was designated for all kinds of fish brought from the north side of the Cedar River. The other was for an alligator that was introduced to the greenhouse, named Allie the Alligator, who would become

a campus icon for decades to follow.

Allie had a home with quite a few water plants, such as water lilies. But, the summer of 1937, the old greenhouse was in rough shape. A writer for the College Eye (1911-1967), now known as The Northern Iowan, described it as a “little, old and unpainted building”.

There were some animals still in that greenhouse at this time, such as turtles, a bullfrog and goldfish. However, most of the other animals, including Allie, had been switched over to the new greenhouse that was built in 1938.

In February of 1938, the new greenhouse was completed. In 1940, a visitor thoroughly recorded the observations of plants and animals they saw while at the greenhouse.

These records i n c l u d ed various Delaney Von Ahsen/Northern Iowan fruits, such One of the ponds in the Botanical Center that has as oranges, goldfish swimming throughout.

grapefruit, pineapple, tomatoes, passion fruit and melons, as well as plants like Venus flytraps, a pitcher plant and a sundew plant.

The various animals in the greenhouse at this time were frogs, tadpoles, snapping turtles, snakes, lizards and occasionally there would be some wild animals, either in need of assistance or recovering, such as raccoons, birds, foxes, a pair of owls in 1945 and a turkey vulture in 1953. Still today, you can find a goldfish, a bearded dragon named Diablo and two birds, Columbo and Chiquita, residing in the Botanical Center.

By the summer of 1960, the Botanical Center was renovated to include more greenhouses, separating the plants, and replacing the soil in the floor beds. The tropical plant families moved to one house, the larger plants were put into another house and the third new house was made for cuttings that were transplanted to campus landscaping beds.

Cacti and other water plants were split between the houses.

By the mid 1970s, the greenhouses were renovated with a better ventilation system. Some more plants had been put in some of these, such as avoca-

Delaney Von Ahsen/Northern Iowan This is Colombo, a resident African Grey parrot who resides in the greenhouse of the UNI Botanical Center.

do, banana, lemon, coffee and cocoa.

A surprising number of animals still resided in the greenhouse, including another alligator, turtles, rabbits, gerbils, prairie dogs, bull snakes and iguanas. Eventually, in 1981, the animals were all moved over to the Biology Research Complex, which was part of the center.

Shortly following this, in 1997, part of the greenhouse became an aquatic learning center. It worked well with the already existing water tanks, while also expanding into a waterfall, wet wall and a new

ten-thousand-gallon tank.

Witte also described the significant structural changes that had been made since 2000.

“The classroom, the two restrooms, the upper lobby, reception, the office, and the lower lobby were added in 2003 and 2004, and helped to make it a little more welcoming,” she said.

This process ended up slowly turning the UNI Botanical Center into what it is today: a beautiful, relaxing place for the Cedar Valley community to experience.

It takes a village: How five music organizations came together to spread joy at Russell Hall

By Jocelyn Loveless Staff Writer

On Friday evening, Sept.

11, bands of all varieties filled Russell Hall and its outdoor terrace with not just music, but community.

The fourth annual Return to Russell event welcomed students back to campus with live music, food, games, karaoke and an opportunity for connections to be made.

The UNI School of Music’s Greek life organizations were responsible for the evening of fun.

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Sigma Alpha Iota, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma, along with the University of Northern Iowa School of Music Student Support Team, came together to put on this event.

It was no simple task.

Jackson Elliott, a fifth-year student who was initiated in Sinfonia in 2025, was one of the organizers of the event.

“We do a big group meeting with every member of each organization to make sure that we’re all on the same page about how the event is going to run,”

Jocelyn Loveless/Northern Iowan Audience enjoys the food and music while the Amorphous Quartet performs.

Elliott said. “We have to reach out to performers, we have to get a lot of rooms reserved, we have to get a lot of this stuff scheduled months in advance.”

But this event isn’t just for music students. Elliott said their efforts are to

“make it happen for everyone that shows up, not just the music majors.”

However, those who are interested in being involved on campus musically were able to use the night as a roadmap. Not only was the event an opportunity

for students to get to know the UNI music community, but it was also a recruitment event for the music department’s Greek life organizations that helped to put it on.

The process to join all four of the organizations is fairly similar. You must

attend open meetings and recruitment events — like the Return to Russell — go through the interview process, and from there, if you’re selected, you will begin the first steps of being a part of the organization.

See MUSIC, page 6

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N.I. EN ESPAÑOL

N.I. EN ESPAÑOL SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

JENNA WESTENDORF Managing Editor

ZACH MINEART Spanish Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

TheatreUNI anuncia la temporada 2026-2027, «Wonderings and Wanderings»

Una temporada llena de magia, comedia, música y acción Escrito por Lily Munnik Zach Mineart, Editor de Español

«La razón más importante para asistir es que las entradas son gratis para todos los estudiantes», dijo Will Hickman, jefe del departamento de teatro aquí en la Universidad del Norte de Iowa. «El teatro es una manera poderosa de juntarnos y relejarnos».

TheatreUNI está invitando a los auditorios a entrar en una nueva temporada de espectáculos que combina la literatura clásica, la comedia contemporánea, el drama competitivo y el teatro musical.

La temporada 20262027 de TheatreUNI, Wo n d e r i n g s and Wa n d e r i n g s , tendrá cuatro producciones empezando en octubre y continuando hasta abril.

La programación incluye una interpretación fresca de Sueño de una noche de verano, por William Shakespeare, la comedia contemporánea The Language Archive, Atena por Gracie Gardner y el musical Dentro del bosque por Sondheim y James Lapine.

La temporada empieza con Sueño de una noche de verano, que se emite del 2 al 10 de octubre. En vez de poner la comedia de Shakespeare en el escenario tradicional, TheatreUNI transportará la historia a Nueva York en la década de 1920. La producción combinará el glamour de la época del art déco con un bosque urbano imaginativo e incorporará jazz y danza en una historia común de romance, identidades falsas e interferencia mágica.

Courtesy Photo/Theatre UNI El tematico 2026-2027 de TheatreUNI, Wonderings and Wanderings, combina la literatura clásica, la comedia contemporánea, el drama competitivo y el teatro musical.

El próximo es The Language Archive, programado del 30 de octubre al 7 de noviembre.

La obra se centra en George, un lingüista cuya misión profesional es preservar lenguas en peligro de extinción. A pesar de su habilidad para estudiar y documentar las maneras en que los humanos se comunican, George tiene dificultad para expresarse a sí mismo en sus propias relaciones. Él lucha con su esposa, María, y su ayudante, Emma, forman la parte central de la trama que se usa elementos cómicos y mucho drama para explorar la conexión y pérdida.

En febrero, TheatreUNI

se asocia con Riverside Theatre en la Ciudad de Iowa para montar Atena que se emite del 19 al 28 de febrero. La comedia de 75 minutos de Gardner seguirá a dos adolescentes competidoras de esgrima, Atena y Mary Wallace, mientras se preparan para los Juegos Olímpicos Junior. Su rivalidad provee un telón de fondo para una historia sobre la imagen de sí mismo y la presión que rodea el éxito.

La temporada cerrará con una colaboración importante de la producción de Dentro del bosque del 16 al 17 de abril. TheatreUNI se asocia con la Escuela de Música de la UNI y el Gallagher Bluedorn

Performing Arts Center para montar el musical ganador del premio Tony de Sondheim y Lapine.

El musical une personajes bien conocidos de varios cuentos de hadas, incluyendo Cenicienta y Jack y Caperucita Roja. En el centro de la historia hay un panadero y su esposa, quienes van al bosque en un esfuerzo por romper una maldición de una bruja. Su viaje demuestra rápidamente que recibir lo que pidió puede tener sus propias consecuencias.

A lo largo de cuatro producciones, la temporada de TheatreUNI ofrece a los auditorios un rango de estilos mientras enfatiza la experiencia compartida de

las producciones en vivo. « Te n e m o s una temporada fantástica este año llena de magia, música, comedia y acción», dijo Hickman.

Las entradas están disponibles en línea en unitix.uni.edu y en la taquilla del Strayer Wood Theatre.

La entrada para estudiantes es gratis, lo que hace la temporada accesible a los estudiantes de la UNI que buscan una oportunidad de experimentar el teatro en vivo en el campus.

LILY MUNNIK

PAGE 5

NEWS

Executive Editor

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

Safety guide for Panthers living on-campus

By Olivia Harrington Assistant News Editor Walking across campus at night, letting someone into a residence hall or deciding whether to report something that feels suspicious are situations UNI students may face every day. While many students say they feel safe on campus, UNI Police and residence hall staff want students to understand that being safe does not mean ignoring things that seem out of place.

Helen Haire, UNI’s director of public safety and chief of UNI Police, said one of the biggest concerns in the residence halls is unauthorized people getting into buildings.

“People who are not residents in that building are supposed to be escorted at all times,” Haire said. “If it looks goofy or if it doesn’t look right, call somebody.”

Haire said students sometimes allow people to enter behind them, a practice commonly called “piggybacking.”

Someone may claim they forgot their ID or ask a resident to hold the door, but students should not assume the person belongs in the building. Several students said they have noticed the same issue.

more impaired people walking near campus.

“I feel safer when I’m with another person,” Killion said.

For Paige Braden, being around other people also provides a greater sense of security.

Braden said she generally feels safe but remembers an incident last year when boys ran around an all-girls floor in the Quads knocking on doors. The doors were locked, but the situation still made students uncomfortable. Braden said she thinks residence halls should discuss safety more seriously during mandatory house meetings.

While students may have concerns about certain situations, many said they still feel safe overall. Daniel Listo said the bright lights and open layout of campus make him comfortable walking around at night. He also said walking with friends helps.

UNI Police can also provide safety escorts for students who do not feel comfortable walking alone. Haire said students can request an escort from a student patrol member or police officer, such as from Maucker Union to a residence hall. Students may

Courtesy Photo/UNI Housing & Dining Dancer Hall is located on the north side of campus and is part of the “Towers” built in 1969.

Chloe Randall, a Dancer Hall resident, said she has seen people let unknown individuals into residence halls. Zoey Killion, also a Dancer Hall resident, said she has witnessed nonresidents wait for students to unlock a door before entering the building.

Nathan Kelly, a former Bender Hall resident, said the scan-in doors made him feel safer, but students could still follow others inside.

For students like Felicity Young, building security is one reason she feels safe in her residence hall. However, she said her biggest concern is walking across campus at night, especially when her classes end around 8:20 p.m.

Other students have similar concerns about being alone at night.

Killion said she feels comfortable walking around campus during the day but becomes more cautious in the evening and later in the week when there may be

have to wait depending on officer availability, but the service is available.

Haire said students should also not hesitate to call UNI Police when they see something suspicious, even if they are unsure whether it is serious enough to report.

“Just call, it never hurts to ask,” Haire said. That same idea applies to smaller incidents, including theft.

Haire said medical or welfare checks, drug odors, harassment and theft are some of the more frequent calls UNI Police receives in residence halls.

Students sometimes do not report smaller thefts because they assume the incident is not important enough. However, Haire said individual reports can help police identify larger patterns.

“It might be no big deal to you, but it could be part of a bigger picture,” Haire said.

Courtesy Photo/Helen Haire Helen Haire has been the UNI chief of police and director of the Department of Public Safety for 14 years.

She encourages students to lock their residence hall doors, secure their items and lock their vehicles. Haire said students sometimes assume Cedar Falls and UNI are safe enough that these precautions are unnecessary.

“Don’t be complacent,” Haire said. “But don’t be overly paranoid either.”

For students who are unsure what to do, residence hall staff can be another resource.

Lillian Hovar, a senior RA in Panther Village, said RAs receive extensive training before working with students. Their training includes how to handle such situations as mental health emergencies, suicidal ideation, alcohol poisoning, abusive situations and medical emergencies. RAs participate in “Carefrontations,” where they act out emergency situations while being supervised by residence life staff. The simulations allow RAs to practice responding to emergencies and receive feedback. Hovar said RAs also train with the Cedar Falls Fire Department on fire extinguishers and fire safety procedures. They work with UNI Police to understand the department and learn when an officer should be contacted.

The goal is not for RAs to handle every situation themselves. Hovar said training helps RAs recognize when an emergency is beyond their ability to manage.

“Whenever we are in a situation and we are unsure of what to do, even in a non-emergency, we call the RLC,” Hovar said.

Residence Life Coordinators are available 24 hours a day to assist RAs. Hovar said UNI Police dispatchers can also help students and RAs determine whether a police response is necessary. Students do not have to rely only on RAs and police to prevent safety problems.

Following residence hall rules is another part of keeping the community safe.

Items prohibited in residence halls include burning incense, hot plates, candles with wicks, oversized refrigerators, certain extension cords and pets. Electric scooters and bikes are also prohibited inside campus buildings. Although some of these rules may seem small, they are designed to prevent larger safety problems, particularly fires and other emergencies.

Some students said they think UNI could do more to communicate safety information.

Young said she knows who to contact if she has a safety concern but thinks UNI could do more to promote its resources.

Hallie Cech said she would contact UNI Police if needed but admitted she does not know the university’s safety resource numbers very well. Randall also said she thinks UNI could do more to promote available resources.

Other students said UNI does a good job keeping them informed about safety. Listo said daily Dean’s emails, orientation and other university events have done a good job providing students with information. He suggested that student organizations and campus leaders continue reminding students about free safety resources throughout the year.

UNI has several resources available beyond residence hall staff and police. The university offers the free Rave Guardian app, which Haire recommends, especially for students who are new to campus. Cameras have also been added around residence hall entrances and exits and in other areas on campus.

For students dealing with harassment, sexual assault or relationship violence, UNI also provides additional support. The Office of Civil Rights Compliance provides sexual assault resources, while the Riverview Center and Waypoint offer 24-hour support. The UNI Counseling Center is available 24 hours a day for students seeking mental health support.

Haire said one of UNI Public Safety’s biggest goals is to keep educating students about these resources and about interacting with police.

“We try to educate people, especially if you’re coming from a small town in Iowa and you’ve never really encountered a police officer in the course of their official duties,” Haire said.

Students interviewed generally said they would feel comfortable contacting UNI Police, although some admitted they might hesitate if they were unsure whether an incident was

serious enough.

Young said she called UNI Police once about a missing item and said officers arrived quickly and were friendly. Braden also said officers responded within minutes to an issue last year and took the situation seriously.

Randall said she would be nervous about whether a situation was serious enough to call about, but she would rather report it than ignore it.

For Haire, that is exactly what students should do. Students are not expected to act as police officers or put themselves in danger. Instead, Haire said students should trust their instincts, avoid letting strangers into residence halls, protect their belongings and ask for help when something does not feel right. The goal is not to make students afraid of campus. It is to make sure they know what to do if or when they need help.

With UNI Police available 24 hours a day, trained RAs and RLCs in the residence halls, safety escorts, emergency support services and resources for harassment, sexual assault and mental health concerns, students have multiple places to turn.

Awareness, communication, and a willingness to speak up can help make residence halls and the larger UNI campus safer for everyone.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS UNI POLICE (24 HR) (319) 273-2712

MERCY ONE CEDAR FALLS MEDICAL CENTER (24 HR) (319) 268-3000

UNI COUNSELING CENTER (24 HR) (319) 273-2676

RIVERVIEW CENTER

SEXUAL ASSAULT SUPPORT (24 HR) (888) 557-0310

WAYPOINT RELATIONSHIP VIOLENCE SUPPORT

(24 HR)

(800) 208-0388

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NEWS SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

LILY MUNNIK Executive Editor

|

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

MUSIC

continued from page 3

But why should someone want to be a part of Greek life within the music department? Not only do members enjoy the social and professional aspects of being a member, but the philanthropic efforts of each organization are well worth the process.

Kappa Kappa Psi most often gives back directly to UNI’s music community by supporting the marching band.

As the academic year starts, Clayton Flattery, their current chapter president, said, “We’re trying to branch out more into the concert band and pep bands as well.”

Sigma Alpha Iota’s more popular form of community service comes in the form of visiting retirement homes and singing for the residents. Overall, their goal is to uplift the voices of women.

“We stand in support of women and music. It’s for women, transgender women, nonbinary individuals and so many other people that are just interested in furthering the voices of women in music,”Aldo Escalera, a third-year student who has been in Alpha Iota for roughly four semesters, said.

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia does multiple programs throughout the year to give directly back to the community.

Jackson Elliott, who is their current fraternal education officer, public relations officer and head member of the recruitment committee, said their bigger efforts include The Mills Music Mission and their grilled cheese cart.

The Mills Music Mission began during the earlier years of Sinfonia.

“The old generations of Sinfonia would go to hospitals and they would go and bring roses to the people at the hospitals and sing songs to them.

That’s a tradition that we’ve carried forward to this day,” Elliott said.

The Sinfonia grilled cheese cart is extremely popular with the student body. This Friday they will host the first grilled cheese night of the year.

They’re often positioned on College Hill and ready to take orders for fresh sandwiches. All of the proceeds from the evening are donated to local underfunded music programs. You can find out more details on their Instagram page: @pma.betanu.

Tau Beta Sigma has a focus on supporting UNI’s bands as well as promoting women in music.

“We have community programs in which we work to introduce music to people who are young and people who are old, ” said Sidnie Clark, a member for almost four years.

The Return to Russell event didn’t just support the Greek life opportunities, though. It helped to platform student musicians by allowing them the space to showcase their talents throughout the evening.

Josh Neas, the president of the Beta Nu chapter of Sinfonia, said, “All of the groups tonight are trying to push music forward in an age where it seems like music is trying to get crushed. So it’s a way to get your band Jocelyn Loveless/Northern Iowan The Singpins, a select cappella group from the UNI Men’s out there.”

Varsity Glee Club also performed at the Return to Russell Santi Kaiz-Vera, a event. first-year transfer stumusic department’s Greek life organident, had his first performance with zations, everyone can look forward to his band, The Groove, at the Return next year’s Return to Russell as there to Russell. He enjoyed the networking are already plans in motion. opportunity an event like that gave This annual event isn’t just for musicians. networking or recruitment, but about “It’s really nice performing for breathing life into campus and those other music people. It gives them who inhabit it with music. Jackson an idea of who they can call when- Elliott put it best: “We’re a bunch of ever they need gigs for the future,” guys that came from music, and we Kaiz-Vera said. want to give back to music.”

Though this was the only event of the year hosted by all four of the

The portmanteau of jazz: TriOblique

By Paisley Huiskamp Staff Writer

The definition of the word portmanteau is when a single word is created out of the combination of two or more words. TriOblique was created as a portmanteau based off of musician Brian Eno’s Oblique Strategies, a card-based method of introducing new, creative ideas into your mind.

The cards, published in the 1970s, are “basically short statements that are supposed to stimulate the creative process,” said Will Yager, double bass player for TriOblique and double bass faculty at the University of Northern Iowa.

The jazz trio has been together creating music for about a year and a half. They formed through playing with one another at a faculty performance in Illinois, a tribute to the music of Julian Lage.

The group started with Luke Sanders, a guitar professor for UNI and Josh Hakanson, a UNI percussion faculty.

It started as a Luke Sanders trio, until they expanded the original group, adding more tunes to their repertoire until it felt like it didn’t belong to him anymore. They decided to change the name of the trio to reflect the group as a whole rather than just Sanders.

TriOblique had two recent performances in which they showed off their incredible ability to play with cohesion

and competence. On Aug. 25, the group performed for students during welcome week in the Kamerick Art Building.

Among the pieces of art, they played many tunes for listeners to enjoy.

The drummer, Hakanson, used interesting techniques during the show. Whether it be pulling out a stringed instrument bow to use on his cymbal, or using the hard ends of his brushes to strike different drum heads, Hakanson brought a unique sound to the trio which not many could replicate one-to-one.

Yager similarly used tech-

niques uncommon for standard jazz, performing with a bow on his double bass to implement chords and the ability to play longer sustained notes. It created a sound and style completely unique to TriOblique, creating a unique listening experience for their audience.

Through the combination of their talent, skill and their unique individual approach to their playing, they started to hit it off. With any close group, they started to unite together.

“We went on tour, which was a very small tour of, like, various venues in Iowa, and

Paisley Huiskamp/Northern Iowan TriOblique is a jazz trio composed of UNI professors in the School of Music.

then one of Wisconsin…you take something out on the road and put it in front of a different audience. And all of a sudden, the level of awareness that you have to have as musicians heightened, you know.”

Group cohesion is especially needed in a jazz trio, when playing off of each other is important for the specific genre in play. When doing improvisation solos, they need to be able to pick up on each others’ playing quirks, and build off of each other in meaningful ways that compliment their style and sound.

At TriOblique’s most

recent performance at the NewAldaya Lifescapes, a nonprofit retirement community in Cedar Falls, they had student musicians come up to sub in for one or two of the faculty members of the trio. The trio emphasized how they perform for their students, and want to be a shining light for them to look up to.

“I really kind of get to go out of my way to continue to model enthusiasm for music…

At the end of day, this is the most fun that there is to be had in life…Music is still, you know, the reason that I get out of bed,” Yager stated.

The group’s focus on being an inspiration for their students and audience is their most special aspect. They use their performances as an example for their students in order for them to have an idea of what an amazing ensemble should both look and sound like.

TriOblique’s ability to see eye-to-eye and communicate with each other while entertaining an audience is something any sort of performer can look up to and aspire to emulate.

To follow them and their performances, go to their website https://trioblique.com or follow them on Instagram @trioblique_jazz.

LILY MUNNIK

PAGE 7

NEWS

Executive Editor

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

ENROLLMENT

continued from page 1

Nook highlighted the enrollment numbers during UNI’s 2026 University Address, where he said the university’s growth stands out compared with other institutions.

“Usually when I give this presentation, I’m not able to talk about our census numbers and where enrollment is, but boy am I glad I get to now because the numbers are up,” said Nook. “They’re looking phenomenal. In fact, our total enrollment is up by 1.76%. And yes, I’ll give three digits.”

Nook said the increase includes growth among both Iowa students and students from neighboring states.

“It’s incredible to see that growth when other universities are declining or holding flat,” said Nook.

“That growth is in terms of Iowa students, where we saw 3% growth in Iowa students, and it’s in those students from neighboring states where we saw more than 100% growth in new students.

For some students de-

ciding between multiple Iowa colleges, visiting UNI’s campus won them over immediately.

“I was deciding between Iowa State and UNI and then I visited campus and liked the feel of it,” said freshman Elaine Lund.

“It was smaller and I didn’t even end up visiting Iowa State because I just loved the way this campus felt.”

The increase in enrollment also comes after efforts from admissions, faculty and staff to attract and retain students.

“Congratulations to everybody who worked on that,” said Nook. “I know admissions takes the lead and is out there fighting to get those students in, but many of our department heads and faculty and staff have had a huge impact on that.”

At a time when high school graduation rates are projected to decline by 4% in Iowa and 32% in Illinois from 2023 to 2041, according to The Gazette, UNI’s enrollment growth offers a positive sign for the future

Lily Munnik/Northern Iowan The bar graph shows a slight increase in enrollment for the 2026 academic year with 2022 being the lowest overall in the past six years.

of higher education in the region. The increase suggests that students are continuing to pursue college education despite broader

declines in the number of high school graduates.

“I don’t think I could ever go somewhere else,” said freshman Addie Smith

who plays for the UNI Women’s Golf team. “I love it here, it’s awesome.”

Engaging. Intriguing. Connectivity.

UNI Museum keeps history alive

By Brendon Schnathorst Staff Writer

Every day, UNI students spend hours studying in Rod Library, vaguely aware of the artifact collections on the first floor.

The UNI Museum has been a staple for incoming students to mosey around before continuing their studies, but the department holds deep significance for students looking beyond the surface.

“When I was in college, I wanted to do museum work, and there was no one out there to help tell me how to do this, so I stumbled through it without any assistance, and I always said I can help people in Iowa so they wouldn’t do the same thing.”

This sentiment, shared by Nathan Arndt, the museum director and chief curator at UNI for almost 12 years, is a major motivator for the highly experienced curator. In his time at UNI, he has provided endless opportunities for students, dissecting cultural objects, most from other continents, and proposing thoughtful conversations Arndt said that “the students are our godsend,” adding that “they do a lot of different work,

Brendon Schnathorst/Northern Iowan Museum director and chief curator Nathan Arndt showing various weaponry used during the World Wars.

and this is what makes UNI a bit unique compared to other regions. You get the full experience as a student here. You are going to do every bit from donor relations to cataloging, which is a good experience for them to have.”

The museum employs between 6 and 12 students — many of whom plan to go into the field and come from different backgrounds — to work around the museum. They each find a sense of communion as they evaluate artifacts that reflect what

“they’ve never thought about,” Arndt said. “They’d never even dreamed that they could hold a piece of Peruvian mummy; now they’re asking questions about what they learn in class. What about ‘I grew up in small town in Iowa; what does that tell me

about the people around me?’”

Arndt wants this department to better the lives of the students who come through, especially since everybody is different.

READ MORE ONLINE AT: northerniowan.com

PAGE 8

MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS

Sports Editor

A legend returns home SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

UNI retires Kurt Warner’s No. 13

By Michael Spahn Sports Editor “I never really thought this moment would ever happen,” Hall of Fame quarterback and UNI alumni Kurt Warner said moments before his jersey would be retired at the UNIDome.

Warner, 55, was honored with a ceremony at mid-field before UNI football’s home opener against Drake on Sept.

12. His jersey was unveiled in the northwest endzone, with fans cheering in replica No. 13 jerseys that were handed out to the first 1,000 fans.

One of UNI’s most popular alumni, Warner had a long journey to becoming a Hall of Fame quarterback. Warner played quarterback at Regis High School in Cedar Rapids, where he graduated in 1989.

He sat on the bench for most of his time at UNI, until finally earning the starting position in 1993, passing for 2,747 yards and 17 touchdowns on his way to earning Gateway Conference Offensive Player of the Year.

Warner wasn’t selected in the 1994 NFL Draft but signed with the Packers as an undrafted free agent. He was cut from Green Bay’s squad and took a job as night stock clerk at the Cedar Falls Hy-Vee. Warner was quickly back on the gridiron after signing with the Iowa Barnstormers of the Arena Football League in 1995.

After a successful stint playing arena football, Warner caught the attention of the St. Louis Rams, signing a futures contract with the club in 1997.

Two years later he would finally get his shot as a starting quarterback.

In his first year under center he led the Rams to a Super

Michael Spahn/Northern Iowan

Bowl title and earned MVP honors during the 1999 season.

Warner went on to play for ten more seasons, spending time with the New York Giants and Arizona Cardinals before retiring after the 2009 season. He resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, with his wife Brenda, where they have seven children.

Spending four seasons on the bench during his time at UNI was difficult for Warner.

Despite the success he brought UNI during the 1993 season, Warner thought he didn’t do enough to warrant his jersey being retired.

“Growing up I always associated the Hall of Fame with what you do for that team while you’re there, “ said Warner.

“When I left here this wasn’t anything that crossed my mind because of that part of it.”

After conversations with UNI Head Coach Todd Stepsis, Warner changed his mindset on receiving the honor. Stepsis pitched to him that his story represents what the football program is all about.

“It really connects with what the University of Northern Iowa tries to sell their student athletes when they recruit them. We are not bringing you here because you have everything you need to go out into the world and succeed. We want you to leave here, and do something great,” said Warner.

Warner still has immense gratitude for Cedar Falls and the University of Northern Iowa. He met his wife Brenda here, got married, and created memories with his teammates along the way.

“It was some great years for me even though it wasn’t necessarily great on the football field.

The relationships were the most important thing,” said Warner.

Warner awaits to receive his jersey from athletic director Megan Franklin.

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

Kurt Warner poses with his jersey during a pregame ceremony before UNI football took on Drake.

Michael Spahn/Northern Iowan

Warner watches his jersey be unveiled in the northwest end of the UNI-Dome.

MICHAEL SPAHN

PAGE 9

SPORTS

Sports Editor

Panthers cage Bulldogs SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

By Tyler Wood Sports Writer

The University of Northern Iowa football team overwhelmed their in-state rivals, the Drake Bulldogs, on Saturday Sept. 12, with a 56-14 win at the UNI-Dome.

The game kicked off at 1 p.m. right after legendary Panther Kurt Warner had his jersey retired. This game was head coach Todd Stepsis’ first time playing his former team, after he left Drake to join UNI in 2024.

The Panthers came out of the gates swinging, and they didn’t look back. UNI scored 56 points, which is their highest point total in a game since it played Indiana State in 2015, when it scored 59.

The Bulldogs’ first drive was put to a stop after John Powers for UNI picked off Drake quarterback Riley Warzynski. Running back Ben Gordon would land the Panthers on the scoreboard first with a 12-yard rushing touchdown. After a quick Drake three-and-out, the Panthers added to their lead after quarterback Jaxon Dailey connected with Brady McCullough for a 14-yard touchdown.

The Bulldogs scored their first touchdown with about four minutes left in the first quarter.

Warzynski launched a deep ball to receiver Mitchell January for a 43-yard touchdown reception. A

successful extra point from kicker Griffin Kollhoff would make the score 14-7.

UNI responded immediately. A productive drive from Dailey ended after he found McCullough for a 17-yard passing touchdown, the pair’s second touchdown connection on the day. The Bulldogs scored on their first drive of the second quarter, with Warzynski finding receiver Lincoln DeLare for a six-yard receiving touchdown.

UNI turned the ball over on downs their next series, and the Bulldogs would throw an interception on their following series.

UNI cornerback Josiah Young picked off Warzynski and returned it to the Bulldog 27-yard line.

UNI capitalized on the turnover and the good field position, as Dailey found McCullough for yet another receiving touchdown, making it their third connection on the day. The Panthers would head into the second half with a 28-14 lead.

The Panthers continued their scoring success into the third quarter. Their first drive of the second half was capped off by a 7-yard rushing touchdown from running back Christian Collins. The Bulldogs tried to respond, but a costly Warzynski pick-six by UNI’s Calvin Jaworski would make the score 4214 three minutes into the third

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

The UNI football team sings the UNI fight song after defeating Drake 56-14 at the UNI-Dome.

quarter. The Panthers would get the ball again and score another touchdown after a two-yard score from Michael Bormann.

The fourth quarter started with a UNI punt, followed by a Bulldog fumble recovered by UNI’s Tyson Cooreman. This would lead to a 28-yard rushing touchdown from running back Caleb Kamara. Another fumble by the Bulldogs would halt their final drive.

The Panthers’ defense recorded three interceptions and

two forced fumbles. The last time they recorded five turnovers was when they upset the Iowa State Cyclones in the season opener back in 2016.

Dailey had a successful day in the air, completing 16 of 23 for 242 yards. He had three touchdown passes, all to McCullough, and no interceptions.

Running back Kamara led the team in rushing with 49 yards and a touchdown. Wide receivers Jaiden Ellis-Lahey and Cyrus Courtney both had 59 receiving

yards.

Defensively, Jaworski, Josiah Young and John Powers all recorded interceptions. Defensive lineman Franz Reisz recorded two sacks and one forced fumble. The Panthers had five sacks in total on their very productive day defensively.

The Panthers improved their record to 1-1. Their next game will be a challenging one, against FBS in-state opponent, Iowa. That game will take place at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.

UNI volleyball battles through gauntlet in Houston

By Avery Moomey Sports Writer Northern Iowa’s volleyball team went toe-to-toe with three challenging opponents this weekend at the Rice Invitational in Houston.

They faced Big East champion Creighton, host Rice, and top-five powerhouse Louisville. They had many chances to measure themselves against the level of competition they will need to reach for the postseason.

The team left Houston af-

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

ter hard-fought battles with their record now at 4-5 for the season.

The Panthers faced No. 15 Creighton in a rematch from the second round of the 2025 NCAA tournament. Northern Iowa put up a tough rally, making the Big East champs work for every point.

UNI’s defense was doing everything it could, racking up 11 team blocks and getting double-double performances from Reese Booth

and Cassidy Hartman. After dropping the first two sets 25-16 and 25-17, UNI entered the third set showing it wasn’t ready to go down without a fight. The Panthers captured the set 25-15, before ultimately dropping the final set, 25-19, ending the day in a 1-3 result.

Saturday, the Panthers set the tone. UNI’s offense was on fire against Rice, leading to a dominant 3-0 sweep with set scores of 2518, 25-20 and 25-23. UNI

The UNI volleyball team celebrates after securing a point against Rice on Saturday, Sept. 12 in Houston.

had a season-best hitting percentage of .310 with 50 team kills, and four different players reached eight or more kills.

Lily Dykstra came out strong early with seven kills in the first set alone. Rice only had one loss all year entering the match, and the Panthers made sure to walk away with a clean sweep.

UNI head coach Bobbi Petersen was especially proud of her team’s performance against Rice.

“I thought that was our best match of the season from all aspects of the game,” said Petersen in her weekly coaches press conference. “Every single player was hitting their responsibilities with service pressure which allowed our defense to do a lot of great things.”

After a dominant performance against the Owls, UNI ended the weekend on Sunday against No. 5 Louisville, one of the top teams in the country. The Cardinals’ front-row size and skill were hard to hit past, but the Panthers stayed in a tough rally before losing 3-0 with set

scores of 25-11, 25-17 and 25-23.

On their way to sweeping UNI, Louisville did a good job taking away one of the Panthers best offensive threats.

“Louisivile came out with a really good game plan in set one and it really threw us off,” said Petersen. “They were serving Cassidy (Hartman) every ball and making her move around in ways that made it hard to get involved with the offense, and obviously she’s someone that needs to be involved.”

Overall, the weekend showed Northern Iowa can serve it up with the best of them. They can hang in there and beat nationally ranked opponents, and the sweep of Rice stands out as an early-season highlight heading into the Missouri Valley Conference play.

Up next, UNI playsWichita State on Sept. 18 for the first time since their 2016 loss to the Shockers. After 10 years apart, Panther fans have an exciting reunion to look forward to at the McLeod Center.

PAGE 10

MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

Sports Editor

VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

The NFL takes over Australia

Rams fall far short in 49ers’ upset win

By Mason Kalkbrenner Sports Writer Nobody expected the Rams to perform as poorly as they did on Thursday. With all of the buzz around how incredible this Rams team was going to be, it was a disappointing way to start the year with a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

Granted, this game was in Melbourne, Australia, the first NFL game played in the country. Playing in a different country brings some major adjustments.

Many fans and analysts are blaming the loss on this, particularly the timezone difference.

Australia is 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles. Once you account for the travel time, it becomes clear that these factors played a

role in their defeat on Thursday, but not entirely.

The Rams assembled a few major pieces on their defense in the offseason, which gave them the title of a “superteam.”

Acquiring both Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie in trades, along with Aaron Donald coming out of retirement, made for a high-powered defense on paper.

But coming into the game, the Rams as a whole were not 100% healthy.

Myles Garrett played limited snaps, and made next to no difference in the game. Being such a wrecking machine on defense, this is an absolute anomaly of a performance. However, Garrett was dealing with some knee concerns going into the game.

So much so that on Sunday,

the inevitable news came: Myles Garrett is to undergo knee surgery, placing him on the injured reserve. This is definitely going to put a lot of pressure on Aaron Donald, as it will be significantly harder to get after the quarterback without Flash’s presence on the line.

Fans will have to wait even longer to see the Myles Garrett-Aaron Donald pair, with Donald not playing in week 1.

The amount of travel, the timezone differences, and the short turnaround were enough to deter the future Hall of Famer to sit out for their game against San Francisco. Therefore, in their first game of the season, the team was almost entirely missing both Donald and Garrett.

The 49ers are no pushover.

Photo/Reuters/Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) rushes the ball in the second half against the Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

By adding a few key pieces on offense, such as receiver Mike Evans, San Francisco is definitely going to be in the running in the NFC this year. After Thursday’s upset against the Rams, the 49ers have a lot of wind under their sails. With rookie receiver De’Zhaun Stribling going down with injury, it only further proved to be what the 49ers need to keep in line this year: the injuries.

While for Rams fans, this was a disappointing game, it was monumental for the NFL. This was the first game in Australia, and it was a huge success with the fans. The passion, energy, and excitement echoing through the Melbourne Cricket Ground was truly historic for the NFL. With an increase in the amount of international games and the number of new countries ever growing, it was a perfect first game for the NFL in Australia.

Most fans were cheering for the 49ers, with a sea of red covering the stands. It was an incredible sight to see the underdog team be cheered for so passionately, especially in week one.

This was an ugly game for the Rams, no doubt about it.

However, it’s only week one. The Rams have plenty of time to turn around and take back complete control in the NFC. Even with the loss of Garrett for part of the year, this Rams team is already built so masterfully. Keep in mind, this team went to the NFC championship last year without Donald, McDuffie, or Garrett.

Give Sean McVay enough time to regroup, strategize, and get back to the California time zone and this game will look like a

fluke weeks from now.

There’s no need to panic about the Rams. The sky is not falling, and this team will turn out to be just fine. The time zone and travel adjustments really had a major effect in the team’s performance. On top of that, the 49ers were in Australia significantly before the Rams arrived, allowing for them to prepare and adjust by the time they stepped on the field. If Aaron Donald can channel his past self and be the anchor this defense needs, by the time Myles Garrett returns, this team will be right back into the Super Bowl conversation.

The Rams play a prime-time game on Sept. 21 against the Giants, giving them plenty of time to get accustomed to the game.

Then, they play the Broncos, Eagles and Bills back-to-back. Garrett’s absence will be extremely noticeable in these games, so the Rams really have to fit their footing without him in order to keep their season steady. But with the Giants having a stellar performance against the Cowboys on Sunday night, the next four games could actually prove to be challenging for Los Angeles.

It’s hard to imagine a world where the “superteam” Los Angeles Rams start the season 0-5.

And it would be way too reactive to predict that outcome, coming off of a fresh loss. Staying healthy, smarter offensive decisions, and accountability will allow the Rams to shake off an embarrassing week 1 and move forward in the season. And under head coach Sean McVay’s guidance, this team will be right back on course in absolutely no time.

Three takeaways from the Super Bowl LX rematch

By Elaine Lund Sports Writer The Super Bowl rematch between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks on Sept.

9. ended with the same Super Bowl outcome, as the Seahawks beat the Patriots 13-10.

The Patriots led 10-0 until the end of the third quarter. The Seahawks started their comeback win by shutting the Patriots down in the fourth quarter. Let’s take a look at three things we learned from the NFL’s first game of the 2026 season.

1. Injuries impact both teams This game was injury central.

Barely into the first quarter, Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold was brutally sacked by Patriots defensive end Dre’Mont Jones and reluctantly left the game with a hip injury after trying to shoo

away the training staff. Not even two minutes into the third quarter, Drake Maye slung a pass to the Patriots’ biggest offseason acquisition, A.J. Brown, whom they acquired in exchange for sending their 2028 first-round draft pick and 2029 fifth-round draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles. The pass to Brown fell incomplete, and he left the game injured with a trampled right ankle.

2. Drew Lock steps up, Drake Maye struggles Drake Maye finished second in MVP voting last season, just behind first-place finisher, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.

With that being said, Maye did not open the season with MVP-caliber play. With Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold out, this game should’ve been an easy win for the Patriots, but backup quarterback Drew Lock wasn’t going to

let that happen.

The Patriots led until the fourth quarter, when the Seahawks tied it with a short pass to star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who scored a 45-yard touchdown, followed by a successful field goal by Jason Myers.

With the game tied, what should’ve been a first down and more for Romeo Doubs ended with nothing. With no one around him, Doubs dropped the ball – a moment that easily plays into what cost the Patriots the game.

Maye could barely get past the Seahawks’ defense. He was sacked three times and threw three interceptions, one of which would’ve been a game-winning touchdown but turned into a game-ending interception.

3. Seahawks defense swarms the Patriots

Courtesy/Reuters/Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown (1) runs a route against Seattle Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe (29) during the second quarter at Lumen Field.

The Seahawks’ defense was elite. They only allowed one touchdown by rookie and Iowa native Eli Raridon in the second quarter, and a 50-yard field goal

by Anderes Borregales at the beginning of the third quarter. The fourth quarter was a complete

shutout for the Patriots.

Three interceptions were snatched by three Seahawk defenders: safety Julian Love, cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett and cornerback Josh Jobe, who made the game-ending interception in the Seahawk end zone. ,

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MICHAEL SPAHN

SPORTS

Sports Editor

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

The perfect ending to a new beginning Get to know star freshman runner AJ Willey

By Carter Lust Assistant Sports Editor “My fitness [is] there; just go out and make a move.”

That was what AJ Willey told himself going into the 2026 Class 4A 3,200-meter State Championship, his final competition against Iowa’s best runners as a Bettendorf Bulldog.

And what a move he made.

Against the fastest field in state history, Willey decisively surged down the homestretch to the front of the race with three laps to go, fighting through the final 100 meters to emerge victorious in a new all-time and state meet record mark of 8:49.65.

Willey led a group of five other runners who also dipped under the previous state meet best.

“My last race in high school couldn’t have gone any better,” said Willey. “It felt like a perfect ending.”

Now, Willey brings that same quick turnover and determination to the University of Northern Iowa as one of the most touted recruits in Panther history.

Willey was a four-year letter winner and MVP of Bettendorf’s cross country team, where he earned AllState honors his final two years. Willey placed 11th at

the state meet as a junior and finished sixth as a senior. In addition to his 3,200-meter title on the track, he also helped the Bulldogs to a distance medley relay state championship and a team runner-up finish in 2026.

Deciding which university or college to attend can be a daunting task for any incoming first-year student.

Luckily, after a great visit with UNI, Willey felt like Cedar Falls was the “place to (call) home for the next four years,” and he put together solid workouts with the rest of the Panthers’ cross country team over the summer.

“Having a group to train with makes it more fun,” said Willey. “Everybody is super encouraging – it’s a fun environment to be in.”

Both the Panthers’ cross country and track and field teams are on an upward trajectory, and the UNI men have big goals at the Missouri Valley Conference Championships this fall.

“Top three is definitely in the picture,” said Willey.

“We can put something together.”

Willey looks to help the team by scoring in most races, hoping to “peak at conference” and have his best performance during championship season. If Willey’s debut outing is any indication of what’s to

come, then he should be a key contributor to Northern Iowa’s MVC title hopes in November.

Willey and the Panthers opened their season on Sept. 4 at the Hawkeye Invite in Iowa City, racing the uncommon 4K distance.

Willey placed fifth overall and was UNI’s second finisher, crossing the line in 18:55.8. Looking ahead, he is focused on “continuing to put good meets together, getting better every day and improving the program.”

However, Willey knows that improvement does not happen overnight. Instead, it is the sometimes monotonous work that leads to long-term success. Over the years, he has learned that “not every day has to be impressive; put in the easy miles and keep threshold (hard but controlled efforts) where it’s supposed to be.”

Willey knows consistency compounds, and that his and the rest of the Panthers’ positive actions can help them reach where they want to be.

Off the course, Willey is an accounting major, citing UNI’s accounting program and CPA exam pass rates as another reason he committed to the Panthers. The Eastern Iowa native also enjoys watching sports and playing video games, using

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

AJ Willey enters his freshman season for the UNI cross country team. Willey finished fifth in the Hawkeye Invitational on Sept. 4 with a time of 18:55.8.

them as an outlet from running and to connect with family and friends.

Willey and the Panthers return to action on Friday, Sept. 25, at the Gans Creek Classic hosted by the

University of Missouri. The meet features numerous Power Five universities and nationally ranked programs, and is Northern Iowa’s largest meet until the NCAA Midwest Regional.

UNI soccer comes up short against St. Thomas

By Sam O’Hair Sports Writer

up of the season on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the UNI Soccer Field.

The University of Northern The action began positiveIowa women’s soccer team ly for UNI in the first half welcomed the St. Thomas as the team had three corner Tommies for the Panthers’ kicks, and sophomore attackfinal non-conference match- er Abi Roberts quickly found

Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics

two low-driven shots on target in the first 16 minutes.

A UNI foul in the penalty area in the 20th minute led to a St. Thomas penalty kick, which junior Izzy McEwan netted to put the Tommies up 1-0.

Shaelee Franck attempts a shot against St.Thomas at the UNI Soccer Field. Franck played 59 minutes in the contest.

The Panthers continued to create positive moments after conceding, marking the rest of the first half with four additional corners before St. Thomas fouled sophomore forward Keira Bogott to give UNI a penalty kick in the 42nd minute.

Junior midfielder Ella Ubben buried the penalty to level the contest 1-1 before the whistle blew for halftime.

The goal marked Ubben’s first of the season.

UNI made seven substitutions before the second half but struggled to find threatening chances. St. Thomas outpaced the team in shots 11-4 in the second half, with UNI only having one shot on target from substitute Kailey O’Brien.

The Tommies’ momentum would eventually cost UNI when St. Thomas forward Alexis Larson slotted a goal in the 70th minute off an assist by Emily McCarthy to

take back the lead, 2-1.

Panther goalkeeper Hailey Luedtke would make two more saves after the Tommies’ goal to prevent any further damage before full-time.

The close home defeat brings UNI’s record to 0-7-1.

The Panthers couldn’t capitalize on seven corner kick opportunities throughout the match, which proved to be the difference.

“Obviously we need to finish on one of those chances,” said UNI soccer head coach Alex Place Thomas in her weekly coaches press conference. “We talked about executing our corner kicks a little bit better. You know, can we score one out of five or one out of seven corner kicks to make it a 2-1 score at half.”

The team will look to improve heading into conference competition. The Panthers head to Terre Haute, Indiana, to face Indiana State on Sunday, Sept. 20.

PAGE 12

ETC. SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 |

CROSSWORD BY NEW YORK TIMES

Across

1) Laffy ___, candy with a rhyming name 6) Poker buy-in 10) “The windows to the soul,” metaphorically 14) Frighten 15) Villain’s hideout 16) American Girl toy 17) Cringey ad campaign going viral, for example 19) Madonna’s “La ___ Bonita” 20) Goes out with 21) Piglet and Pooh’s marsupial friend 22) “Well, in that case ...”

24) Clic Stic and Wite-Out brand 26) Character at the heart of the “Who shot ...?” cliffhanger of 1980s TV 27) Colombian cornmeal cake 29) San José, ___ Rica 30) Oculus Rift or Meta Quest 3 32) Opposite of chaos 36) Texter’s “I think...”

37) Started a game of blackjack, say 38) 18-wheeler 39) Agrees nonverbally 41) Red root vegetables 44) Kind of rally at high school 45) Put up, as a building 47) Many characters on “The Pitt” 49) “Quick!”

51) Group holding a nominating convention 52) Scannable squares often used in place of paper menus 55) ___-Wan Kenobi 56) Rang, as a bell 57) Pooch’s bark 59) Paddington Bear’s country of origin 63) What a light bulb represents, in comics 64) Puppet dragon of 1960s kids’ TV 67) Bottom-heavy fruit 68) Britney Spears’s “___! ... I Did It Again” 69) Perform better than

70) Daughters’ brothers 71) Exam 72) French fries-tobe

Down

1) Cough syrup amts.

2) Farmland measure 3) Haircut that transitions from shorter sides to longer top 4) Ultimate ___ (team sport) 5) Word of consent 6) Too 7) Grp. with a phonetic alphabet 8) Cause for overtime 9) Screw-ups 10) Conflicts over Wikipedia content 11) Mario’s dinosaur sidekick 12) Actress Pompeo of “Grey’s Anatomy” 13) Vernacular found in Urban Dictionary 18) Place for coin-op game machines 23) Kind of high-fat diet 25) Tablet with Pro, Air and mini versions 26) Scribbled (down) 27) Knight’s wear 28) The “R” in R.I. 29) The “log” in “ants on a log” 30) Trellis-climbing plant 31) “Light” Jedi weapons 33) Railroad station 34) Manicurist’s filing board 35) Laces (into) 40) Well-educated sorts 42) Fill back to capacity, as a glass 43) Healing cover 46) “Lose the ___, dude!”

48) Causes to make a mistake 50) Bit of fiery cinnamon candy 52) Cotton swabs not recommended for ear canal use 53) Cowboy contest 54) Fresh from the dishwasher 57) Grindr and Tinder, for two 58) Sign of decay 60) “___, Brute?”

61) “Ant-Man” star Paul 62) Sights that make you go “What the…?!”

65) ___ v. Wade (1973 Supreme Court decision) 66) Rejections

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

JENNA WESTENDORF Managing Editor

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VOLUME 123, ISSUE 4

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