CNS Dean's Fund for Excellence
The Dean's Fund for Excellence in the College of Natural Sciences gives the dean the flexibility to direct funds to areas where resources might otherwise be limited. These funds are used primarily to enhance CNS student opportunities and programs and to strengthen faculty. "This fund gives us the flexibility to add a bit here and a bit there, so that our programs reach their full potential," said CNS Dean Joel Haack. "Sometimes it can make the difference between excellent and extraordinary."
In the past the Dean's Fund has been used for supplies and equipment for student research, travel for students to conferences, and honoraria and travel support to bring national and international experts to UNI to visit with our students and faculty.
This year, CNS faculty have identified several priorities for the fund:
- CNS undergraduate and graduate student travel to professional conferences to present the results of their summer research projects with faculty
- Support for CNS students to act as undergraduate research associates, working with faculty in science laboratories beginning as freshmen
- Funds for undergraduate and graduate students to pursue their research
- Support for faculty to develop online courses to meet the needs of Iowans across the state
- The latest software for UNI students to prepare them for Iowa's future
The student testimonial below demonstrates the value of what the fund can provide.
I’m grateful for funding that covered my travel expenses to the Geological Society of America Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado. It really enhanced my classroom experience by teaching me more about the fields of geomorphology, tectonics and environmental issues. I was fascinated by a presentation on the construction of a probe that would penetrate the frozen layer of Jupiter's satellite, Europa. It was also a great opportunity to make personal connections with graduate school representatives, companies and organizations for summer internships and to attend luncheons with professionals in the industry and government. Future funding would help students continue to make connections and learn about up-to-date scientific research.
--Bree McClenning, '09
Geology and Earth Science Major |
Clearly, student opportunities such as these can elevate a program and provide a layer of enrichment. Such experiences might make the difference between whether or not a student is offered a position or is accepted to graduate school. "Our aim is to offer students the best possible experience in the College of Natural Sciences," said Haack.
Make your gift now
Your gift to the CNS Dean's Fund for Excellence can make a real difference. You can make your gift on the secure pledge form. Simply scroll down to Dean's Fund and designate your gift amount to the College of Natural Sciences.
For more information, visit the UNI Foundation Web site, or e-mail Cassie Benning Luze, CNS director of development.
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