CEDAR FALLS, IA
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2025
UNI hosts Halloween House for the community
By Mackenzie Poock Staff Writer
On Friday, Oct. 24, the University of Northern Iowa hosted a spook-tacular evnt for the local community, bringing together science and Halloween fun for families and kids of all ages.
The event was hosted on the second floor of the McCollum Science Hall by UNI’s American Chemical Society student chapter, Physics Club, Sigma Gamma Epsilon Earth Science Society, Pre-Med Club and the National Science Teaching Association.
Current students from the Biology, Physics and Earth Sciences departments turned plain labs and classrooms into scary-cool displays of experiments for the kids to see and participate in. All themed around Halloween, visitors were encouraged to dress up in costumes and participate in events such as Mummies Yummies, where you could make ice cream for root beer floats using liquid nitrogen or Devils Den, where onlookers watched as students demonstrated the
excitement of pyrotechnics.
Other fan favorites were demonstrations such as Frankenstein’s lab, Witches Lair, Dangers of the Deep and Lair of Light, which let kids get a hands-on experience in helping with the experiments. Pirates Cove, Tesla’s Revenge and The Boneyard were also included in the long list of spine-chilling activities.
Many of the events were structured in 30-minute increments, allowing families to rotate through multiple demonstrations and experience the wide variety of scientific experiments on display. The experiments, geared more towards elementary-aged children, were intended to spark curiosity and excitement towards the creative and fun side of STEM and Halloween.
Organizers noted that events like these not only bring science to life but also inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and educators.
UNI to offer new ‘Degree in 3’ for elementary teaching
By InsideUNI
A new pathway to teaching elementary education at the University of Northern Iowa allows students to complete their Bachelor of Arts degree in three years, saving them time and money while allowing them to begin their careers one year sooner, on a faster path to their first teaching salary.
Applications are now being accepted for an accelerated “Degree in 3” elementary education BA pathway, an on-campus option which expects 25 to 30 students in its inaugural class in fall 2026.
“UNI’s three-year degree is a bold response to the state’s demand for teachers and aligns very well with Iowa’s legislative objectives,” said UNI Provost José Herrera. “This builds on our legacy in teacher education while providing an alternative for today’s high school students seeking an accelerated path to elementary teaching.”
The new pathway, intended for incoming freshmen, maintains the standard curriculum of 120 credit hours for completion, including an array of in-depth clinical experiences and student teaching. In this faster, more intensive path to teaching, students will complete coursework year-round, including winter and summer semesters, followed by student teach-
ing.
In addition to tuition savings, Degree in 3 students are eligible for up to $5,600 in scholarships to assist with summer tuition and student teaching stipends. Graduates will get a head start to earn firstyear teaching salaries in Iowa beginning at $50,000. Colleen Mulholland, dean of the College of Education, said this new option fits students seeking a faster, less costly path to teaching who are willing to commit to this more intensive offering.
“The combination of less time on campus and added financial opportunities puts students an estimated $70,000 ahead in contrast to a traditional four-year path,” she said. “We understand the commitment being made by these students, and pledge as well to offer dedicated year-around support in terms of academics, advising, career and wellness support.”
In responding to Iowa’s legislative initiative to add at least one three-year degree program at each Regent university, the provost said UNI naturally looked to UNI Teacher Education and the College of Education first.
“Our elementary education program is the largest
major at UNI. We’ve been preparing future educators since UNI began. Adding the Degree in 3 further extends the reach of this outstanding program, which prepares more elementary teachers than any other program in the State of Iowa and nearly all programs in our neighboring states,” Herrera said. “This is a smart investment that will benefit our students and their future employers, our partnering school districts.”
In addition to the traditional on-campus program, which attracts incoming freshmen and transfer students, the College of Education has also long offered an online transfer program for placebound students with associate degrees seeking to complete their bachelor’s degree. More recently, UNI began offering the Purple Pathway for Paraeducators, an online apprenticeship model program that allows working paraeducators to earn their bachelor’s in elementary education and special education.
Nearly half of the almost 2,000 teaching majors at UNI choose elementary education, following these various pathways. They are part of a UNI Teacher Education program that continues to produce more than 500 graduates each year.
Mackenzie Poock
The experiments were geared towards elementary-aged children which were intended to spark curiosity and excitement towards STEM.
Courtesy Photo New pathway to elementary teaching offers year-round coursework to complete Bachelor of Arts Degree in three years.
“For 25 years the Gallagher Bluedorn has brought a broad spectrum of touring artists that range from Broadway’s biggest hits to country and comedians.”
Steve Carignan Executive director
Gallagher Bluedorn celebrates 25th anniversary season
By Lily Munnik News Editor
This fall, the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center marks 25 years of bringing world-class performances and community together.
On Sunday Nov. 2, the university will host a rededication ceremony celebrating the completion of the center’s newest addition, featuring a donor recognition event, capped with a performance by the world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
The expansion includes the popular Marquee Lounge, a stylish new gathering space that has quickly become a fan favorite. “People love it,” said Steve Carignan, executive director of the Gallagher Bluedorn. “It provides us a way to lean into the social experience of an audience sharing a live show.” Additional upgrades include new seating, expanded restrooms and accessibility features.
For Carignan, the 25th anniversary is as much about people as performances. “For 25 years the Gallagher Bluedorn has brought a broad spectrum of touring artists that range from Broadway’s biggest hits to country and comedians,” he said. “This year we celebrate with even more once-ina-lifetime experiences.”
He recalls moments that capture the magic of live performance — from hosting stars like Gregory Hines, Bonnie Raitt, Yo-Yo Ma and George Carlin, to seeing local children light up during the center’s school programming, Kaleidoscope. “You can actually see them get hooked by the story — they radiate unmoderated joy,” he said.
Beyond the stage, the Gallagher Bluedorn has deepened its community impact through initiatives like “Buck a Kid”, neighborhood block parties and partnerships with local arts groups. “The shows we’ve produced with community theatres, the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony and UNI’s School of Music and Theatre show that local talent, with proper support, is every bit as good as national touring artists,” Carignan said.
The Gallagher Bluedorn’s opening was a result of more than half a
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century of persistence and belief that arts belonged at the heart of campus life. Finally, the project began work in 1997 and was ready for visitors three years later, with its official grand opening in April 2000.
The idea dates back to 1944, when the Iowa General Assembly first imagined a performing arts center for the State Teachers College. For decades the project stalled due to shifting priorities and limited funding. Through the 1960s and 1970s, committees and class gifts kept the dream alive, even as progress remained slow.
Momentum returned in the 1980s through the efforts of Howard Jones and Ron Ross, who pushed for a facility that could serve both the university and the broader community. A 1986 study recommended locating the center on the UNI campus, and by 1988, a formal planning committee was in place.
The project gained real traction in the early 1990s, fueled by community fundraising and volunteer spirit. “Although some said they wouldn’t attend the arts center that often, they wanted it to exist for their grandchildren,” said vice president for principal gifts and former alumni director, Noreen Hermansen, who helped lead the faculty and staff campaign that raised over $1 million.
By 1996, all $19 million needed for construction was secured. When the Gallagher Bluedorn finally opened in April 2000, it was both an architectural and acoustical achievement — designed as several sound-isolated structures to allow multiple performances at once.
Today, as the Gallagher Bluedorn celebrates 25 years, it stands not just as a building but as a living testament to decades of vision, generosity and shared belief in the power of the arts.
For upcoming anniversary season events and ticket information, visit www.gbpac.com.
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LILY MUNNIK News Editor
Lily Munnik Located in the lobby of the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center is a large light-up 25, to represent 25 years of the GBPAC.
Cedar Falls native Dee Dee Benton, UNI student liason to the city, wants to strengthen the connection between the campus and community
By Brody Lovell/Cedar Falls News Hub Guest Writer
Dee Dee Benton loves everything about Cedar Falls. As the new student liaison between the city and the UNI community, she plans to work to ensure that her fellow students learn to love her native town just like she does.
The council voted on Oct. 6 to approve Benton as the UNI student liaison. The UNI junior addressed the council briefly about why she intends to strengthen the connection between the campus and the community.
“I think it’s really important for students to be connected with the city and its culture, as I have loved it all my life,” she said. “I think it’s very important for the city to be also connected with the university, as I believe it brings new life to our city.”
The position of the student liaison was made permanent on April 17, 2017, when then-Mayor Jim Brown signed a resolution to that effect after a trial period which was deemed successful, according to records. The candidate, for the yearlong term is picked first by the Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG) and recommended to the mayor, then approved by the Cedar Falls City Council. The resolution spells out the duties of the liaison and notes that the person “may be seated on the dais” during council meetings, but during Committee of the Whole meetings the student liaison “shall be seated in the audience.”
Working on establishing the position at the time were then-Ward 4 Councilman Tom Blanford, a 2013 UNI grad in political science and law, and Drew Stensland, a 2019 UNI grad who then served as NISG senator and chair of the student government’s External Relations Committee.
The candidate has to be a member of the student government in order to qualify for the position. Cade Olmstead, sociology and philosophy major, held the position from 2017 to 2018.
After the position was temporarily disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noah Hackbart stepped in to rebuild and reinvigorate the role, restoring its
presence and purpose. He served from 2022 to 2024.
“I told our leadership, ‘I’ll be interim. You can replace me at any time. We just need somebody at City Hall,” Hackbart recalled. “The pandemic really sidetracked our efforts to have a student there consistently.”
During his 18-month stint, Hackbart worked under two different mayors and two councils, making connections and collaborating closely with city officials while they made the transition to post-pandemic operations. Hackbart took part in the discussions of the College Hill Vision plan, gave voice to student perspectives in public safety conversations and sat on committee meetings, including closed meetings.
Isaac Mata. She said she joined the student government in order to be eligible for the post.
goals,” she said. “State law allows me to do that without being as emotionally taxing.”
Reflecting on the history of the position, Stensland, the former UNI senator who later became UNI Student Body president, said it is fulfilling to know that student voices are still being heard in the council chambers.
“It makes me so happy that the position is still around,” Stensland said. “We had no idea when we set out creating it that it would still be going strong today.”
A 2023 graduate of Cedar Falls High School, Benton is looking forward to serving as a connector between the campus and the community she grew up in.
“I was born here, lived in North Cedar all my life,” she said. “My dad taught me it’s important to be involved in your community in any way, shape or form. I’ve always grown up a Panther.”
In high school, Benton took multiple dual credit courses her senior year. That decision allowed her to major in three fields of study at UNI – political science, political communication and psychology – while also pursuing minors in international affairs and social justice.
Earlier this year, Benton was suggested to the council by former liaison
“My goal is to create a big brainstorming session with NISG and City Council members,” she said. “Let’s talk about how we can show up for each other. How can students engage more with Cedar Falls? And how can residents engage more with UNI?”
Benton says it’s important for UNI students to attend community events off campus as a way to immerse themselves in the city’s culture. Engaging students in the revitalization of College Hill is one of her priorities as is bringing attention to small businesses in the area.
“I’m shocked how many students don’t even know what Four Queens is,” she said. “We should be more engaged with the smaller local businesses. There’s so much joy students can get out of them.
“It’s about connection,” she said. “Because the university brings so much life to Cedar Falls – and Cedar Falls gives so much back. We need to keep that energy going past the block party [a city festival that takes place in August].”
After graduation, Benton plans to set her sights on law school, with the focus of studying state law.
“I want to help people achieve their
Professor’s legacy honored with Marathon Class Fun Run
By InsideUNI
The University of Northern Iowa will honor the life and legacy of beloved psychology professor David A. Whitsett with the Marathon Class Fun Run on Saturday, Nov. 1, beginning at 11 a.m. in the Bartlett Hall Courtyard on the UNI campus.
The 2.6-mile campus run is a lighthearted tribute to UNI’s legendary “Marathon Class,” co-created in the 1980s by Whitsett and Forrest Dolgener, professor of physical education. The original class gained national attention for helping first-time runners complete a full marathon through a unique blend of physical training and psychological preparation.
“The Marathon Class exemplified UNI’s hands-on, or feet-on, interdisciplinary approach to learning,” said head of the Department
of Psychology Adam Butler. “Dr. Whitsett and Dr. Dolgener inspired students to connect mind and body, lessons that still resonate today. We have heard from many alums that the course profoundly changed their lives.”
The UNI Marathon Class became a model of innovation, inspiring the nationally recognized book, “The Non-Runner’s Marathon Trainer” (1998), which introduced thousands of readers to the same approach that guided UNI students to the finish line. Over its 16-year history, nearly 200 students completed marathons through the class.
The Nov. 1 fun run invites alumni, students, faculty and community members to relive the spirit of that course at a little easier pace, “onetenth the miles, all the legend.”
Participation is free, and all runners and walkers will receive a commemorative sticker. Registration is available at csbs.uni.edu/fun-run.
Following the fun run, a Celebration of Life for Dr. Whitsett will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. in the Marquee Lounge at Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. Friends, colleagues and alumni are invited to stop by and share memories.
In conjunction with the event, the university has established the David A. Whitsett Legacy of Imagination Endowed Scholarship, which supports junior or senior psychology majors demonstrating financial need, with preference for those pursuing UNI’s work psychology certificate, Whitsett’s area of expertise.
If the opportunity presents itself, Benton does not rule out the possibility of politics in her future.
“If lawyer life ever gets too boring,” she joked, “I could see myself getting involved at the city or state level.”
Benson believes her time as the student liaison will help her learn the ropes of local government and understand how decisions are made.
During the council meeting on Oct. 6, Kelly Dunn, a councilwoman-at-large, praised Benton’s willingness to serve.
“It’s not just sitting up here,” she said of the position’s impact. “I appreciate when we have young folks that are willing to speak up and let us know how the students feel about a particular topic so that we can better serve our student population, not only at the university, but hopefully, in turn, they’ll consider staying here forever.”
Speaking to the Cedar Falls News Hub later, Benton added:
“I’ve always loved Cedar Falls,” she said. “It’s home. And I just want more students to feel that way, too.”
Courtesy Photo David A. Whitsett was a respected psychology professor at UNI, known for a class he co-created called “Marathon Class”. The class gained national attention for helping first-time runners complete a full marathon through physical and psychological training.
Courtesy Photo During the Oct. 6, 2025, City Council meeting, Dee Dee Benton tells the council why she wants to serve as the UNI liaison. The Cedar Falls native’s goal is to engage the campus and the community in a meaningful way.
N.I. EN ESPAÑOL
EN ESPAÑOL
Estudiante de UNI presentará arte en la Galería de Arte Kamerick
Hook estará en exhibición del 9 al 18 de diciembre, durante la semana de finales.
Bajo la luz fluorescente del laboratorio, Alex Hook se encuentra sola, rodillo en mano, aplicando tinta sobre un bloque de madera tallado. Son más de las 8 p. m. Entre semana y el resto del Edificio de Arte Kamerick está vacío y silencioso, excepto por el chirrido inquietante de su rodillo y el zumbido bajo de la prensa. Y, como era de esperarse, su arte trata sobre vampiros.
Alex Hook, estudiante de arte en la Universidad del Norte de Iowa, está utilizando el folclor del vampirismo para explorar temas de comportamientos obsesivos y destructivos. Su próxima exposición para la Licenciatura en Bellas Artes, una de solo dos este semestre, se inspira en estas criaturas góticas no solo por su estética, sino también por su poder metafórico.
Como parte del programa de BFA en UNI, los estudiantes próximos a graduarse curan e instalan sus propias exposiciones individuales en la galería del Edificio de Arte Kamerick. La muestra de
Hook cuenta que la inspiración para su tema llegó de manera inesperada.
“Siempre supe que quería explorar el comportamiento obsesivo-compulsivo en mi trabajo, pero me costaba encontrar cómo abordarlo”, dijo. “Luego estaba viendo un montón de videoensayos sobre vampiros, y pensé, ‘¡Me encantan los vampiros!’
A partir de ahí, la conexión surgió por sí sola. Encontró paralelismos en las compulsiones irracionales del folclor vampírico como la necesidad de contar granos de sal derramados o la incapacidad de entrar a una casa sin una invitación explícita.
“Mucho de ese folclor no tenía sentido alguno”, dijo. “Pero eso es lo que lo hacía tan interesante”.
Su obra no solo retoma elementos visuales como tonos rojos profundos y
ángulos marcados, sino también la naturaleza animal y cambiante de los vampiros. Una impresión en particular muestra a un canino monstruoso y deformado, un eco del mito de que los vampiros pueden convertirse en lobos y otras bestias.
La pieza es solo una de muchas que han requerido horas de trabajo manual en el estudio de grabado.
El proceso inicia cuando Hook mezcla su propia tinta para litografía, una combinación cuidadosa de setswell, secante de cobalto y tinta cruda para litografía. La fórmula debe ser exacta; si queda demasiado espesa, la
transferencia no será adecuada. Y con recursos limitados en el departamento, cada gota cuenta.
Extiende la tinta en una capa delgada sobre un vidrio usando un rodillo manual hecho de goma vulcanizada.
“Sabes que terminaste cuando suena como tocino friéndose”, dijo.
El vidrio no solo ayuda a crear una capa uniforme de tinta, sino que también facilita la limpieza. En un laboratorio donde la mayoría de las superficies están cubiertas de manchas desiguales de pintura seca, la estación de litografía de acero inoxidable es uno de los pocos lugares donde el desorden no se puede ocultar.
Siempre supe que quería explorar el comportamiento obsesivo compulsivo en mi trabajo, pero me costaba encontrar cómo abordalo.”
– ALEX HOOKS Estudiante de arte UNI
En esta tarde-noche, Hook trabaja sola. El rodillo chilla bajo presión mientras aplica la tinta al grabado en madera.
“Esto me preocupa”, dijo, frunciendo el ceño ante el sonido. “No
sé si esto se va a imprimir bien”.
Aun así, continúa. Coloca una hoja de papel para impresión sobre el bloque entintado, y luego la acomoda entre cartón y una manta de lana para proteger tanto el papel como el bloque. Todo el conjunto pasa por una prensa manual, cuya enorme rueda de acero aplica una presión intensa para transferir la imagen.
El resultado, sin embargo, es decepcionante. Cuando retira las capas, la impresión se ve tenue y dispersa más como una pantalla de televisión llena de estática que la imagen que tenía en mente.
Pero Hook no se desanima. Cada impresión requiere varias pruebas generalmente de cuatro a seis antes de lograr la presión y consistencia de tinta ideales. Esta impresión fallida se suma a una creciente colección de criaturas con forma de perro en su estudio, justo al fondo del pasillo del laboratorio.
“Este sábado pasado estuve cinco o seis horas en el estudio”, dijo. “Estoy tratando de aumentar esas horas”.
Traducido Armando Pantoja Escritor Invitado
Armando Pantoja/Northern Iowan
La exposición de Hook estará abierta del 9 al 18 de diciembre, durante la semana de finales.
By Mallory Schmitz Cat’s Corner Newsletter
Stunning. Outstanding. Flawless. The scariest thing about TK is that her eyeliner and mascara is so sharp it could cut you. She’s a girls’ girl through and through, and she would never do me wrong. She also just celebrated 15 years at UNI!
An offshoot Pink
University Archives
a little familiar, you aren’t mistaken. The Pink
was introduced to UNI gamedays in 1976. If
even played before games as this mascot hyped the crowd up. Frankly, the scariest thing about this costume is that it smells like a copyright infringement lawsuit.
This guy is undeniably serving. Despite his major swagger and style, his head is more detailed than some of the others on this list, and that makes him just a little unnerving. Those teeth look sharp, and those eyes make me a bit uncomfortable. I wouldn’t want to meet him in the dark.
University Archives I am obsessed with the fact that this mascot costume just looks like footy pajamas, and the homemade look is rather charming.
University Archives
University Archives
bulked-up
isn’t scary —
fact, I think I prefer him to the current design. His rounded ears remind me of a stuffed animal, and dare I say, he’s the cutest Panther mascot UNI has had. Just look at his whiskers.
University Archives I can’t lie. I love this guy. From his themed outfits (throwback to Panthers in Paradise night) to his courtside antics, today’s TC is a great addition to the gameday atmosphere. He’s stylish, he’s hip and truly lovable.
University Archives
Panther mascot
this guy looks
Panther theme song
150 years of Halloween at UNI History of Halloween celebrations on campus
In the late 1800s, rooming houses held their own Halloween parties that included pumpkin carving, taffy pulls and games — much like events hosted by halls this week.
The student newspaper, then named the Normal Eye, recorded the environment of Halloween evening in November 1895.
On Halloween evening, the young ladies of Bley Hall most successfully entertained a number of Normal friends. The evening throughout was spent in that happy and helpful association which lightens the burdens of life, cheers the lonely heart, and makes school days indeed more pleasant. All who were present thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and are now wishing that more Halloweens might soon come.”
By 1910, many organizations held their own Halloween parties. Some of these parties also featured the initiation of new members. The new members often had small pranks played on them during these parties.
Fortune telling was a tradition from the parties that developed in the 1910s, and continued for several decades thereafter. Many times the entertainment at these parties included a witch — who revealed the future of those who dared to ask.
Individual organizations and residence halls have continued to host their own parties throughout the years.
In 1933, Bartlett Hall held a Halloween Dinner attended by 143 women. In 1935, Bartlett Hall held a party that included recreational dancing and other activities.
Halloween activities in 1944 included a Halloween Party held by the residents of Seerley Hall. There was a haunted room, and a carnival atmosphere that again included fortune telling, singing and assorted refreshments.
The UNI campus has reputedly been haunted over the years by at least two ghosts: Zelda and Augie.
The exact date when Zelda first appeared is hard to deter-
mine, but she is described as early as 1963 in the student newspaper, then known as the College Eye, as “the spirit of the theatre that is neither seen nor heard.”
Zelda was reported to live in the basement of the Auditorium Building, now known as Lang Hall, which was then the home of college dramatic performances. Zelda moved with the Theatre Department when the new Strayer-Wood Theatre opened in 1978.
Reports of Augie started appearing in the student newspapers at least as early as 1977. At that time, he was reported to have changed the lettering on a bulletin board outside one room to say “Augie will return to haunt
More of Augie’s antics were reported in 1992 when a resident assistant claimed to have seen a man in a striped outfit walking down the hall, while the hall was closed. The man then suddenly vanished into the women’s restroom. When the resident assistant went into the restroom, there was no one there.
Halloween, with its disparate folk and religious roots, has inspired a variety of activities among UNI stu -
dents over the school’s 150year history.
A few students chose disruptive, anti-social activities. A larger number, especially in recent years, participated in philanthropic activities that brought happiness into children’s lives.
But most students of most eras, if they celebrated Halloween at all, seemed to see it as an opportunity to enjoy friends, good food and good drink — and maybe to feel the thrill of being scared.
University Archives Somebody in a costume scaring children, 1995, in the University of Northern Iowa Photograph Collections. This particular child seems more interested in the candy!
University Archives Students decorating for Halloween, undated, in the University of Northern Iowa Photograph Collection.
University Archives A child decorating a pumpkin in 1995, at a Halloween event hosted by UNI.
Bordeaux House.”
Courtesy of Gail Briddle
UNI Archives
Spooktacular Trunk or Treat shows up with costumes and candy
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin Student organization members dressed in a variety of Halloween costumes to give back to the community.
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin
Delta Sigma Theta sorority president Kaylynn Ruffin poses in front of a decorated trunk to hand out treats to students in the Cedar Valley.
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin Green Dot students enjoy a night of fun at the Trunk or Treat with bowls of classic candy favorites.
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin Delta Sigma Theta sorority advisor Kathy Peters dresses as a black cat for the UNI Trunk or Treat.
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin TC & TK pass by the Trunk or Treat dressed in costumes from the Star Wars franchise to help students gather candy!
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin
Professor Kristina Kofoot and her son enjoy a night of spooky fun, dressed as friendly vampires for the UNI festive October event “Trunk or Treat.”
COURTESY/Kaylynn Ruffin Asian Student Union members pose for a photo with their spooky trunk to pass out candy to kids in the community to celebrate the Halloween spirit.
‘Marian or The True Tale of Robin Hood’ Arrow-mantic adventure launching its way to UNI!
By Josue Villatoro Staff Writer
TheatreUNI has proudly launched their first show of the season — “Marian or The True Tale of Robin Hood,” a swashbuckling comedy written by Adam Szymkowicz. It is a hilarious new take on the classic folk tale of the heroic outlaw.
The story is centered around Maid Marian, who leads a motley group of Merry Men (few of whom are actually men) against the greedy Prince John, under the vigilante persona of “Robin Hood,” set during the period of Medieval England in the kingdom of Nottingham and Sherwood Forest.
Will Hickman, head of the Department of Theatre and director of the play, landed on Szymkowicz’s adaptation because it has been over 122 years since the University of Northern Iowa had produced a
as a big inspiration for this adventurous production.
Hickman said this particular playscript stands out from other adaptations on the iconic merrymen.
“We were looking for a show that would be engaging and exciting for our audience, that would be educationally important,” he said. “It’s a play about freedom, it’s a play about identity, it’s a play that celebrates love in many different forms and at the end of the day, it’s a fun play to work on, it’s a fun play to come see.”
Szymkowicz’s script delves deeply into gender roles, sexuality and identity without focusing on the trauma that many of these kinds of stories tend to highlight.
Instead, it chooses to focus on triumphing over oppression and tragedy, by utilizing comedy to format the plot.
From sweet romantic chemis-
try to hilariously delivered dialogue, the blend between humor and romance is certainly capable of making any audience member smile delightfully.
A sense of escapism is present, but never strays far away from the human connection that the show will have on theatregoers, since the characters are the focal point of this farcical journey.
When it came to structuring stage combat, Jason Tipsword was called upon as stage combat consultant to prepare the actors for the fight scenes to maintain safety and camaraderie during actor’s swift movements.
Tipsword utilized aspects of Filipino martial arts for Hickman’s fight choreography, with his background experience in Olympic-style fencing and European swordplay.
The show embodies the feeling that the season of autumn brings given that costume
to represent the change and growth, both in the concept of fall and through the development that the characters go through, in a more grounded tone. Pratt’s approach to the design came from the idea of using natural colors for the costumes to give this production an earthlier look to the stage over the traditionally flashier colors normally associated within Robin Hood media.
Senior Jonah Hindt, in his final stage role for TheatreUNI as Little John, expresses that the best thing to come from the actor’s experience is being able to interact with the majority of the cast in a wholesome, comedic way. Hindt states how he also enjoyed working with the director and assistant director Briley Larson on finding the difference between depth and simpleness in his performance and learning how subtle, surface emotions can
carry just as much weight as deeper ones.
Portraying Alanna is sophomore Audrey Ruff, who said that the audience will step into an unfamiliar world and notice characters such as Alanna taking a huge risk for something they believe in. “Whether it’s standing up for yourself, expressing your identity, or learning to take up space, Alanna’s journey captures that feeling of becoming who you truly are,” Ruff said.
TheatreUNI presents a tale that is unapologetically heartfelt and bold, incorporating stories that do not have to stay stuck in the past, honoring classic tales while reshaping them to include anyone, if not everyone. “Marian or The True Tale of Robin Hood” will continue its run through Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. and will have its final performance on Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. at the StrayerWood Theatre.
Courtesy/Jonathan Allender Zivic Jonah Hindt (left) as Little John, Hannah O’Connell as Will Scarlet, Audrey Ruff as Alanna Dale, and Charleston Kay as Marian/Robin Hood (right). Get tickets for the new show online at unitix.evenue.net
Robin Hood show, serving
designer Hannah Pratt wanted
Two young stars are ready to take over the NBA
By Carter Lust Sports Writer
Last year, I wrote a story titled “2024 NBA Preview: Passing the NBA Torch.” The article served as a look at what to watch for in the upcoming season while recognizing that some of the game’s greats may be nearing the end of their playing days. After discussing the year’s major storylines and diving into a bit of nostalgia, I highlighted two of the league’s next generation of players poised to “take the torch” from NBA legends: Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama.
And they appear ready to do so.
Edwards and Wembanyama produced two of the greatest individual performances ever in a season debut. Out West in Portland, Oregon. Edwards led his Minnesota Timberwolves down a trailblazed path to Rip City for an interconference and interdivisional matchup. After getting off to a slow start, the Timberwolves trailed 61-57 at halftime.
However, Edwards contin ued to stay in his groove. A breakaway dunk off an outlet pass from teammate Jaden McDaniels brought Edwards to an efficient 25 points with just over 10 minutes remaining in the third quarter. Yet Minnesota failed to cut into Portland’s lead, trailing 95-88 entering the final 15 minutes of action.
But that’s when the Timberwolves took a stand. Relying on their previously sixth-ranked defense, Minnesota began turning consecutive defensive stops
into points on the other end. With the score at 107-103, Edwards drove left toward the basket against two defenders. Stopping near the short corner, he shook one defender with a step-back before nailing a long midrange jumper over the outstretched arm of the other.
Just a two-point game now. With 1:15 left, Edwards found himself at the top of the key with the shot clock winding down. Again with the ball in his left hand, he took one dribble inside the arc before hopping back behind it on his right foot, dropping the Portland defender to the ground in the process.
Cash.
Edwards’ 3-pointer gave the Timberwolves a 114-112 lead, but he wasn’t done. With nine seconds left and Minnesota still up two at 116114, Edwards had the ball on the left wing. After a double between-the-legs size-up, he again drove left before hitting another patented midrange step-back.
Ballgame.
Edwards finished with 41 points — the most ever by a Timberwolf in a season debut — along with seven rebounds on 50% shooting from the field and from 3-point range. Edwards told reporters at the Timberwolves’ Oct. 1 media day that an “MVP and championship” are his goals for the year, and he appears to be on the right track.
After missing an extended part of last season because of blood clots, Wembanyama used his prolonged offseason to rehab and return stronger
both physically and mentally. His training caught mainstream attention after photos and videos surfaced of Wembanyama working out in the mountains of China. Being regarded as possibly the greatest basketball prospect of all time is not an easy title to live up to, but “Wemby” just might.
And much more.
Entering his third year in the NBA, Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs faced their in-state rival, the Dallas Mavericks, in a primetime matchup. Although the Mavericks were without star point guard Kyrie Irving, Wembanyama still faced AllDefensive big man Anthony Davis and rim protector Dereck Lively II.
The two squads were neck and neck throughout the first quarter, with neither team gaining much of a foothold. Wemby’s two opening dunks helped keep the Spurs within one point at 29-28 entering the short break. Then, the show began.
With 8:30 left in the second quarter, Wembanyama threw down a monstrous reverse slam off a near–midcourt alley-oop from teammate Stephon Castle. Near halftime, Wemby drove down the right baseline past his defender for an up-and-under reverse dunk, picking up the foul in the process. The play helped the Spurs take a 60-51 lead at the half, and they kept building on their momentum.
Out of the break, Wemby volleyball-spiked Lively’s layup attempt into Castle’s hands, who immediately gave
it back to Wembanyama to let the 7-foot-4 center bring the ball up the court. At the top of the key, Wembanyama used a right-handed in-and-out crossover to get the defender on his hip. A couple of steps inside the 3-point line with the ball in his left hand, Wemby hit a between-the-legs, behind-theback dribble combo to set up his step-back 3-pointer. Rising above his defender, his jumper — nearly unblockable — swished cleanly through the
net, plus the foul.
Time to stir the pot.
Wembanyama ended the night with 40 points, 15 rebounds and three blocks in a Spurs 125-92 blowout victory. If Wemby continues on this trajectory, he may give Edwards — and the rest of the league — a run for their money in the MVP race. Whether it’s Edwards, Wembanyama or another emerging superstar, it will be exciting to see who takes the NBA torch.
Main Card for UFC 321 ends in disappointment
By Mason Kalkbrenner Sports Writer
This past weekend, UFC 321 took place in Abu Dhabi. Tom Aspinall looked to defend his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane, while the vacant strawweight title was up for grabs as Mackenzie Dern faced Virna Jandiroba. While the main event didn’t end the way anyone hoped, the card still delivered several entertaining fights that helped bring some clarity to a few uncertain divisions.
The card opened with a light heavyweight bout between Aleksandar Rakic and Azamat Murzakanov. For Rakic, the fight was a critical one — he hadn’t won since 2022 and had dropped his previous three bouts, including a loss to former champion Magomed Ankalaev last October. He needed a win to get back on track.
But that victory never came. In the first round, Murzakanov landed a devastating right hand that sent Rakic to the canvas. It was the biggest win of Murzakanov’s career, extending his undefeated record to 16-0.
Moving up to the heavyweights, veteran Alexander Volkov took on Jailton Almeida, a crafty wrestler known for controlling opponents on the ground. Many fans expected a slow-paced fight, but the bout turned out to be far more entertaining than anticipated. Volkov countered Almeida’s wrestling with precise striking and earned a close decision victory over the rising star.
To read the rest of the recap, including the main card disappointment, visit our website at northerniowan.com
Graphic Courtesy/Cohen Kamaus
Victor Wembanyama and Anthony Edwards delivered electric performances to open the 2025-26 season, with both players already in the mix for MVP honors.
Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics
Panthers best Redbirds, Sycamores to stay perfect in MVC play
By Nicole Waters Sports Writer
The Northern Iowa volleyball team started its conference road stretch this past weekend against the Illinois State Redbirds, in a match that saw back-and-forth action in the first set.
UNI used a 5-0 run and service aces from Sydney Golden and Taryn Rice to pull away. Maryn Bixby tallied six kills in the first set, while Cassidy Hartman followed with four and Isabelle Elliott added three as the Panthers went on to win the
set 25-19.
Northern Iowa continued its dominance in the second set, scoring the first four points, including an ace by Reese Booth. Bixby led the Panthers with four blocks in the set, while Elliott followed with three. Elliott and Hartman each added four kills as UNI cruised to a 25-13 win to go up 2-0 in the match.
Illinois State came out strong in the third set, leading for most of it before the Panthers made a late run. The set featured 11 ties and seven
lead changes, with Jadyn Petersen adding a late ace to aid the Northern Iowa comeback. The Redbirds reached set point before UNI forced extra points and closed the match with three straight points to complete the sweep, 26-24. Lily Dykstra led the team with five kills in the set, while Bixby and Hartman each had four.
The Indiana State Sycamores stood no chance in the first set, as the Panthers scored nine of the first 11 points thanks to a 6-0 run. A late ace from Rice helped
seal the deal, while Hartman, Elliott and Dykstra each had four kills to help Northern Iowa to a 25-11 win.
UNI faced an early challenge from Indiana State in the second set but managed to pull away. The Panthers extended a two-point lead behind six kills from Hartman and four from Dykstra, with Bixby adding three blocks to help Northern Iowa to a 25-15 win and a 2-0 match lead.
The Sycamores came out strong again in the third set before the Panthers regained
control. Hartman powered the UNI offense with four kills, while Lindsay Oldendorf added three kills and three blocks. Hartman, Bixby and Golden each recorded an ace, and Kamryn Vogt earned her first collegiate kill as Northern Iowa secured a 25-16 win to complete the sweep.
To cap off the weekend, sophomore Reese Booth and senior Sydney Golden joined the 1,000 career assists club in the match against Indiana State.
Panther football drops fifth straight game
By Tyler Wood Sports Writer
The University of Northern Iowa Panthers lost their fifth straight game Saturday, falling 31-17 to the Southern Illinois Salukis.
The Panthers (2-6) trailed 24-3 at halftime before both teams added late scores. The Salukis (5-3) closed out their victory with seven more points in the third quarter, while UNI scored 14 in the fourth.
Quarterback Matthew Schecklman led the Panthers in rushing before being replaced in the second quarter by Jaxon Dailey, who played the rest of the game. Schecklman completed 5 of 10 passes for 34 yards with one interception and a 19.0
passer rating. Dailey completed 8 of 15 passes for 93 yards and two touchdowns, finishing with a 117.3 passer rating.
For Southern Illinois, quarterback D.J. Williams completed 19 of 23 passes (82%) for 190 yards, two touchdowns and a 138.8 passer rating.
Running back Bill Jackson led UNI in receiving with five catches for 40 yards. Jackson also carried the ball five times for five yards. J.C. Roque Jr. added three receptions for 35 yards and a touchdown, while tight end Briggs Hughston caught a 23-yard touchdown pass from Dailey in the fourth quarter.
Southern Illinois running
back Edward Robinson led all rushers with nine carries for 86 yards. Chandler Chapman added 81 yards and a touchdown on six carries. The Salukis’ passing attack spread the ball to 10 different receivers, with wide receiver Jay Jones catching three passes for 52 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Aidan Quinn added a 38-yard touchdown reception midway through the second quarter.
The Salukis improved to 5-3 and will face Murray State in their next matchup. The Panthers dropped to 2-6 and will look to bounce back against Illinois State in a rivalry game. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. at Hancock Stadium in Normal, Ill.
The Panthers have now won 52 straight matches over MVC opponents, which is the longest streak in Division 1. Their last loss came in 2022 at Drake.
Photo Courtesy/UNI Athletics The Panthers look to snap their skid this weekend at Illinois State.
Warren leads youthful Panthers into 19th season
By Michael Spahn Assistant Sports Editor
The Northern Iowa women’s basketball team is set to begin its season Wednesday, Oct. 29, in an exhibition game against Truman State.
Tanya Warren enters her 19th season as UNI’s head coach and is the Missouri Valley Conference’s all-time winningest coach.
Warren will lead one of the youngest teams of her tenure at UNI, featuring five freshmen: Abby Tuttle, Mya Nicholson, Anna Greene, Maren Schmotzer and Lauren Walker.
“There’s something about newness that excites me,” Warren said during the team’s media day. “The canvas is clear, and we get the opportunity to grab a pen and start writing and painting this picture how we want to see it unfold.”
The Panthers will rely on two seniors to lead the team: Taryn Wharton, who averaged 7.2 points during the 2024-25 season, and forward Ryley Goebel, who averaged 10.2 points per game. Goebel
also led the team in rebounds, steals and blocks.
Goebel was one of a handful of players nationally to record at least 70 steals and 70 blocks in a season.
“She had a terrific junior year,” Warren said. “She’s done a really good job in the offseason of committing
herself to scoring a little bit more. Her role has changed.”
Warren also added two transfers: senior guard Virginia Edmondson from Montreat College, who averaged 20.4 points last season, and guard Jenna Twedt, who averaged 16.1 at Kirkwood.
Junior guard Bri Robinson
will also take on a bigger role this season. She played in 34 contests and averaged seven minutes per game in 2024-25.
The Panthers will play several marquee matchups, including hosting the No. 21 preseason-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes on Nov. 16. The
team will travel to Creighton a few days later, on Nov. 20, and face Iowa State in Ames on Dec. 14.
UNI will open regular-season play at the McLeod Center on Nov. 3, hosting the North Dakota State Bison at 6 p.m.
Graphic Courtesy/Cohen Kamaus
The Panthers, who lost some key players last year due to graduation, will have to rely on some new faces and veteran leadership this year.
Graphic Courtesy/Cohen Kamaus
CROSSWORD
BY RYAN SALES
SUDOKU
Across
1) Place to get a sandwich
8) Place to get some liquor
13) Where the Study Abroad Center might send you
15) Panther Village Inhabitant
16) Japanese setting for "Madame Butterfly"
17) Oddball
18) Justice Samuel
19) Old Apple laptop
21) Mutt
22) Ancient letter
23) Trick endings?
24) Sushi ingredient
25) French possessive
26) Group of musical notes
27) "Nature of a ___"
(1991 Queen Latifah album)
28) Bête ___ (pet peeve)
29) Made the grade
30) Place for the restless to get dessert
34) Hangmen's tools
35) Mary Poppins, e.g.
36) Prongs
37) Number of Scrabble points for a B, C, M or P
38) Mixed vaccine, briefly
41) Those, in Spanish
42) Magician Henning and others
43) ___ avis
44) No longer working (abbr.)
45) Meno ___: not as fast, in music
46) Company founded in Alabama
47) Long, tragic stories
49) Places for doctors' strikes?
51) Mickey of the Yankees
52) Not taken in
53) Hindu teacher
54) Popular place for UNI students
Down
1) Submarine detection systems
2) Measure of insulating ability
3) Starts 4) Box
5) "This ___ sudden!"
6) Brew of 46A
7) Marinated, grilled chicken entree of Japanese cuisine
8) James Van Der ___ (actor whose surname, aptly, is Dutch for "from the creek")
9) "Wheel of Fortune" buy
10) Jonquils and daffodils
11) Hall of Fame guest of honor
12) Newspaper inserts with coupons
14) Traditional sled dog
15) Pairs
20) Chicago airport code
23) They're guarded in soccer
24) Hazardous
26) Arrives
27) River to the Rhône
28) Snoops (around)
29) Southern corn breads
30) Waiting periods
31) Urban ordinance that might apply to a late-night party
32) Short piano piece
33) Mesh for securing items in transport
37) NFL breaks
38) Monetary unit of The Gambia
39) Move forward
40) Tricycle handlebar accessory
42) Prescribed amount
43) Xerox competitor
45) Year in Ivan the Terrible's reign
46) Dole (out)
48) $$$ dispenser
50) Old verb ending
ANSWERS
