The University of Northern Iowa officially opened its Sesquicentennial Exhibit on Sept. 29, inviting the public to explore 150 years of history at UNI. The grand opening, held at 1 p.m. in the heart of campus at Rod Library, marks a major milestone in UNI’s year-long celebrations of its 150th anniversary.
Hosted by the UNI Museum, the exhibit is a curated journey through time — featuring authentic artifacts, rare photographs and significant people that trace the university’s evolution from its founding in 1876 as the Iowa State Normal School to its current standing as a nationally recognized institution.
“This university was built on the shoulders of many people,” said President Mark Nook during the opening ceremony. “All of them have had a commitment to making this a great place for students to get an education, for faculty and staff to grow and to learn themselves as well as to work and teach.”
Nook emphasized the importance of looking to the past as the university plans for the future.
“As we celebrate a very proud past, our very vibrant present and what is going to be a very bold future, it’s important that we think about that past — that’s what this exhibit is about,” he said. “This is the foundation that tomorrow is built on.”
Rod Library is the central hub of the exhibit, displaying the largest collection of UNI’s historic artifacts. Attendees will find items from every era of the university’s history, including the early years of teacher education, the growth of the campus community and the transformation into a comprehensive university.
Jess Cruz, exhibits coordinator and distinctive collections educator, shared the extensive work behind the scenes: “What you will see represents over 5,000 linear feet of archival materials and hundreds of museum objects that we have gone through.”
In addition to the main exhibit, satellite exhibits have been set up in key locations across campus: Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, McLeod Center and Maucker Union. These digital displays complement the Rod Library exhibit with interactive elements, additional photos and expanded stories. All exhibit locations are open to the public and free of charge during regular building hours.
“Spend some time getting to know this history. It is very rich and it’s very vibrant. Some great stories have happened on this campus and in this community that bring us all together,” said President Nook.
