The UNI Jump Start Orientation Program is in its 14th year of providing new students from ethnically, culturally, and socioeconomically diverse backgrounds with a "jump start" on their first year at the university. Jump Start is an extended orientation program that provides students with an opportunity to make a smooth transition to the University.
 

The University of Northern Iowa has been named recipient of the "2012 MAP-Works Excellence Award - Marketing" by Educational Benchmarking, Incorporated, a higher education consulting firm.  UNI won in the "large campus" category. The award recognizes UNI's innovative marketing plan and execution, related to engaging first-year students in participating in the MAP-Works survey program during fall 2011 and spring 2012.

The 2012 Student Leadership Awards presentation was held on April 17 at Maucker Union.   Award winners were honored for their achievements throughout the year and throughout their collegiate careers.
 

Christopher Denison, Associate Director of Facilities & Operations, Wellness & Recreation Services, received the Horace Moody Award at the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) national meeting in Tampa, Florida.  The Horace Moody Award is given to one NIRSA professional from each of the six NIRSA regions to recognize their contributions to student development. 

Nine UNI students accompanied UNI Orientation staff members Monica Johnson and Kristin Woods to the Region V National Orientation Directors Association conference in Omaha, Nebraska.  The students who participated included Mathew Knight, Tristan Maxey, Amber Blackmon, Ian Goldsmith, Chris Bowden, Kyra Hawley, Alicia Jessip, Sarah Duster and Tyler Avis.