Dear Hawkeyes,

On one of our morning walks with our dog, Ollie, this spring, my husband and I came upon a small note lying on the ground near the bicycle rack by Burge Hall. It was an apology for a broken reflector, and it included four $1 bills for the bike owner to buy a cup of coffee as a token for the mishap. It captures something that defines us: Quietly caring for one another, living “Iowa nice,” and putting compassion into small, meaningful actions.

As we kick off the 2025–26 academic year, that spirit of simple and thoughtful deeds has a measurable impact on others and should guide our actions. 

This fall, we will start with record-high retention and graduation rates, one of our largest first-year-student classes ever, and increasing National Institutes of Health-funded research. And all of this is being accomplished while maintaining our position as one of the most efficient schools in the Big Ten. These are not just random data points; they are proof we lead with accessible excellence and smart stewardship.

During the upcoming academic year, our focus will be guided by intentional growth:

• Student success and accessibility: Delivering outcomes that rival more selective institutions.
• Research that delivers outcomes: From early-detection cancer breakthroughs to life-saving treatments for our youngest patients.

Collaboration across campus: Working together to find smart, innovative solutions that strengthen our university and the state we serve. 

Our strength isn’t measured in data alone. It’s reflected in every student who once thought they’d have to choose between affordability and ambition. It is found in our health clinics as they deliver expert care and fight the scourge of cancer across our state.

Connection is part of what makes Iowa special. This fall, I encourage you to join us for the Welcome Concert on the Hancher Green to celebrate the new semester. You can also show your Hawkeye pride at the Homecoming Parade on Sept. 26. And if you want to help ensure that no Hawkeye goes hungry, you can donate to the campus food pantry at the Iowa Memorial Union.

These moments, big and small, remind us that we thrive together.

So this week, we take one small step: Welcoming students, reuniting with friends, and reaffirming our shared purpose. Through one strategic decision—investing in people, innovation, and values —we can achieve one big result: Continuing to deliver accessible excellence that truly matters for Iowa and beyond.

I would love to hear your own “small steps” stories, acts of kindness, moments of connection, or ways you’ve strengthened our Hawkeye community. Please share them with me at president@uiowa.edu.

Here’s to a fall filled with connection, success, and the Iowa spirit in action. Let’s show what “Iowa nice” looks like this semester. 

With best wishes,

Barbara J. Wilson

President