Spring tends to bring a lot of good energy to the college, and this issue of our faculty and staff newsletter reflects that.

We're celebrating faculty honored with career awards, highlighting the great work of CLAS staff, and checking in with our wellness ambassadors. You'll also find information on One Day for Iowa and the upcoming Staff Council Resource Fair.

There's a lot going on in CLAS, and we're glad you're part of it.

CLAS announcements

One Day for Iowa faculty and staff voting opportunity

Iowa's 24-hour giving day is next week! New this year, faculty and staff can vote for a featured area to receive additional funding when you stop by the Hawk Shop Cafe in the IMU between 7:30-10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25 for a free morning beverage, and/or join social media challenges before and on March 25. Read some of the ways CLAS supports student success here.

Employee updates

New this month, we are recognizing people who have earned CLAS longevity awards along with our new and promoted employee updates. Please feel free to reach out to introduce yourself to new people, or congratulate your colleagues for their accomplishments.

Featured Achievements

CLAS' Colin Gordon named 2026 UI Distinguished Chair

The UI Distinguished Chair is one of the highest honors bestowed on faculty at Iowa. It recognizes tenured scholars of national and international distinction whose work in research, teaching, and service strengthens the university’s mission and advances impact across Iowa and beyond. 

Two CLAS faculty honored with 2026 Regents Award for Faculty Excellence

Alberto Segre, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science, and Carol Severino, professor of rhetoric in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences received the award. The Iowa Board of Regents recognized six outstanding University of Iowa faculty members for their extraordinary contributions and sustained record of distinction in teaching, scholarship, and service. 

Spotlight CLAS

Two CLAS faculty receive Iowa Mid-Career Faculty Scholar Awards

Casey DeRoo, associate professor, Department of Physics and Astronomy, and Donika Kelly, associate professor, Department of English, received the award. 

Staff Spotlight: Matt Shadle’s collaborative approach to academic assessment

As academic assessment coordinator, Shadle helps CLAS programs strengthen student learning outcomes across departments and disciplines. 

Upcoming events

March is National Nutrition Month

In celebration, liveWELL and Health, Sport, and Human Physiology students are hosting 30-minute EatWELL virtual food demonstrations throughout the month. Visit the link to register to attend these free events and explore more nutritious recipes and resources.

CLAS Staff Council DVIP & RVAP donation drive

Monday, March 30–Friday, April 17
Ten drop-off locations

CLAS Staff Council is hosting a donation drive to benefit the local DVIP & RVAP (Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Crisis Services). Between March 30 and April 17, bring your donated items to any of the ten drop-off locations listed in the linked flyer. To see the complete list of DVIP & RVAP's current needs, visit their website.