NI 10-01

Northern Iowan editors sit down with UNI President Mark Nook

By Estelle Johnson & Jenna Westendorf

In 1876, the Iowa State Normal School opened its doors for the first time – with an enrollment of only 88 students. From there, what would soon go through several name changes, is now known as the University of Northern Iowa – with over 9,200 students currently enrolled.

LILY MUNNIK News Editor

honor the university’s past.

“We don’t get to 150 years if we haven’t had people building a very solid institution for us,” Nook stated. “An institution that has weathered some storms, some ups and downs, and has had some really high peaks.”

 See DEI RALLY, page 2

JACOB KURT

Northern Iowan executive editor Estelle Johnson, and managing editor Jenna Westendorf, met with UNI President Mark Nook in the Lang Hall TV studio on Friday, Sept. 12. There, they discussed the sesquicentennial anniversary, homecoming events and more university business.

Nook shared with the editors that he continues to look forward to honoring the university’s proud past, and celebrating a bold future as UNI marks its sesquicentennial anniversary and homecoming.

Preparations for the sesquicentennial celebration began in 2017. UNI celebrated 50 years as a university that year, and President Nook aimed to lay the groundwork for what would soon come to be a year-long celebration – most importantly, how to

President Nook emphasized how the work he does would not be possible without the many hands of UNI leaders. Custodians, food service workers, faculty, students and staff – everyone at UNI plays their part in making UNI special.

“There’s always so much focus on what happens when a particular leader’s here … but the work is done by the entire campus,” said Nook. “People know who I am, but the work is really done by so many other people.”

Nook is looking forward to celebrating among students, faculty and staff at UNI. Nook added, “Being able to be a part of what everybody on this campus does, the way people are celebrating, what they are remembering and what they are thinking about for our future, what our faculty and

staff are thinking about and working on, and what they’ve done to lay this path in the first place.”

This sesquicentennial year features old traditions in new ways – such as honoring UNI’s biggest donors in the Gallagher Bluedorn, rather than the typical location, Maucker Union. Nook added, “The foundation and alumni celebrate our significant donors during a big celebration in November, and we’ve moved that to homecoming week so we can honor them then.”

Homecoming celebrations will take place this weekend, on Friday Oct. 3 and Saturday Oct. 4. Students are welcome and encouraged to participate in the slew of events occurring this week. Nook reminds students that the university is a unique place, and encourages them to engage and take advantage of the opportunities they have.

From a late night dance to UNI athletic games, homecoming has something for every student to enjoy. Find the full schedule of events at https://homecoming.uni.edu/

LILY

News Editor

Museum exhibit celebrates UNI’s history

Sesquicentennial legacy on display at Rod Library

By Lily Munnik News Writer

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.

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.”

Mark Nook President of UNI

NORTHERN IOWAN

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MACI SWANSON Head Photographer maciswan@uni.edu

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Black Student Union shares positive energy hosting first Kickback of the academic year

By Alli Webster Staff Writer

For five years now, the idea of pre-pandemic student involvement numbers have plagued everyone’s mind. With the uptick in enrollment and overall engagement, UNI’s Black Student Union (BSU) encapsulated the perfect night of community and increased student organization involvement with their Kickback event.

BSU held its first event of the year on Sept. 25, offering an evening of games, music, raffle prizes and a great time. Members of BSU filled the Panther Village sand volleyball and basketball courts, and everyone seemed to be enjoying the night with each other.

“This Kickback event has to be one of my favorites since I’ve been a part of BSU, and I can’t wait to help plan more of these types of events for everyone to enjoy with my team!” said Gabriela Meza, BSU’s director of social media.

The Kickback was without a doubt a success – bridging together a com -

munity of students after the first few weeks back to school.

“Everyone’s energy was so positive and uplifting that it made the event feel like a summertime family function, complete with yard games and a big game of kickball at the end,” Meza said.

The Kickback event was not only a numerical success but a representational success. Student organizations like BSU ensure that every student at the University of Northern Iowa has a comfortable place to be their authentic selves.

“I think what made [the Kickback] even more special was seeing so many people come out to support BSU,” said Shamira Turks, chair of BSU programming. “The turnout showed not only the strength of our community, but also the power of unity in bringing people from diverse backgrounds together for one big, fun celebration.”

150th Class SPOTLIGHT

First-year student Allison Tjaden finds beautiful scenery, instant friendships

at UNI

By Lily Munnik News Writer

Editor’s Note: UNI is marking its 150th anniversary this academic year. As the newspaper of record on campus, the Northern Iowan is showcasing a weekly feature profiling members of the sesquicentennial class.

For Allison Tjaden, choosing the University of Northern Iowa felt like finding the perfect middle ground — not too big, not too small, but just right.

The Story City, Iowa native recalls a pivotal moment during her junior year of high school when a UNI recruiter visited. That encounter led her to a campus visit, where she was instantly hooked.

Now a first-year student and part of the 150th Class, she is majoring in English teaching with a minor in creative writing. Tjaden calls Hagemann Hall home and is already settling into her new life.

“The scenery is my favorite part of campus,” Tjaden said. “I love all the nature and cannot wait for fall. I’ve heard it’s

beautiful.”

Despite her outgoing nature, Allison admits she was nervous about making friends. But those fears quickly vanished during Welcome Week

“Within three minutes, I met Elle and Emily — two of the many best friends I’ve made in just a month,” she said. “I was nervous for nothing and that’s what I’m so grateful for.”

Looking ahead, Tjaden is excited for all that UNI has in store.

“I am looking forward to many things, such as student teaching, becoming more independent and creating more memories with those around,” she said.

N.I. EN ESPAÑOL

Estudiantes de UNI hacen rudio con Bluff Street Band

En una mesa de Culver’s en Cedar Falls, un nuevo capítulo de la música local comenzó discretamente en enero de 2025. Ahí fue donde Bluff Street, una banda emergente de indie pop y rock formada completamente por estudiantes de la Universidad del Norte de Iowa, tuvo su primera reunión. Desde entonces, han ido ganando fuerza, atrayendo multitudes con sus shows electrizantes, su estilo único y una química que no se puede fingir.

La voz principal de Bluff Street es Riley Jane, una cantante y compositora con una presencia escénica poderosa y letras que muestran vulnerabilidad. Riley estudia trabajo social en UNI y está por graduarse en diciembre, pero dice que la música siempre será parte de su vida.

La acompañan tres talentosos multiinstrumentistas: Braden Sabin (guitarra, bajo y voz), estudiante de segundo año en contaduría; Breven Biermann (bajo, guitarra y voz), también de segundo año y enfocado en estudios digitales interactivos; y Julian McGuinty (batería), estudiante de kinesiología. Riley bromea: “Julian está soltero y es feminista, por cierto.”

revisar los seguidores de la Escuela de Música de UNI, encontró a Braden, quien tenía una guitarra en su foto de perfil.

“Decidí que eso era suficiente para convencerme de que él debía ser el guitarrista”, cuenta Riley. Un men -

Tenemos muchos momentos chistosos en los shows ... es toda

en Bluff Street, fue su primer espacio de ensayo. Ahora ella vive ahí, y el nombre se quedó.

Bluff Street encontró su ritmo rápidamente, mezclando composiciones originales llenas de emoción con covers de pop y rock que prenden al público. Su género es indie pop/rock, pero su vibra es divertida, algo caótica y muy conectada.

“Tenemos muchos momentos chistosos en los shows”, dice Riley. “Pelucas, kazús, megáfonos y Draco Malfoy. Es toda una experiencia.”

nario en The Octopus, un bar muy querido en Cedar Falls.

“The Octopus es uno de nuestros lugares favoritos”, dice Riley. “Tocamos en su noche de cantautores cada primer miércoles del mes. Es un espacio súper acogedor para el talento local.”

mente son la escena musical de Cedar Falls”, dice Riley. “El trabajo solista de Breven bajo el nombre Beeven es increíble. Y hay rumores de que Braden también está trabajando en algo por su cuenta.”

– RILEY JANE Miembro fundador de la banda

El origen de la banda es tan moderno como se puede ser. Riley siempre soñó con formar una banda, pero no conocía músicos locales, así que recurrió a Instagram. Al

saje directo y algunas presentaciones después, conoció a Breven y Julian, y así nació oficialmente Bluff Street.

El nombre de la banda tiene raíces literales: una de las propiedades en renta de la familia de Riley, ubicada

Lo que los distingue en una escena musical local tan saturada, además de ser todos estudiantes de UNI, es su sentido del espectáculo, el humor y la originalidad. A diferencia de muchas bandas del área, Bluff Street tiene una dinámica poco común: una vocalista mujer al frente, acompañada por músicos hombres.

El escenario es donde Bluff Street realmente brilla. Ya cumplieron uno de los sueños de Riley al presentarse en el Des Moines Pride Fest, y constantemente encienden el esce -

Bluff Street también reconoce el papel clave de la comunidad de UNI en su camino. La estación de radio de la universidad grabó y produjo su primer sencillo, “I only want the boys (who don’t want me)”, y Hilltop Media filmó su primer video musical. Incluso se presentaron en el Mauckerena Showcase todo gracias a oportunidades brindadas por estudiantes y personal que los apoyan.

Aunque el futuro traerá cambios inevitables, graduaciones, nuevos compromisos, nuevas caras, Bluff Street no tiene planes de parar pronto. Riley está decidida a seguir haciendo música mucho después de recibir su diploma, y los demás miembros de la banda comparten esa pasión, tanto en Bluff Street como en sus proyectos individuales.

“Breven y Braden básica -

Su próximo gran show será el 27 de septiembre en el James Theater en Iowa City, donde presentarán un set completamente compuesto por canciones originales que aún no han salido. Es una movida audaz que refleja su confianza, ambición y todo lo que han estado creando detrás del telón.

Mientras se preparan para grabar en estudio, lanzar nuevas demos y hacer crecer su base de fans, hay algo claro: Bluff Street no es solo una banda estudiantil, sino un movimiento nacido de la creatividad, la colaboración y el amor compartido por la música. Para seguir su camino, encuéntralos en Instagram como @bluffstreetband.

UNI Homecoming: Celebration events scheduled for Oct. 3, 4

UNI to celebrate historic 150th homecoming

By Estelle Johnson Executive Editor

Monday, Sept. 29 marked the beginning of the University of Northern Iowa’s 150th homecoming week.

The ringing of the Sesquicentennial bell took place on Monday at 11 a.m. by the Commons on campus. The ringing marked the start of UNI’s homecoming celebration, all while commemorating the sesquicentennial celebration.

The majority of scheduled homecoming events will be taking place this coming weekend. The Homecoming bash is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 3, from 5 to 9 p.m., in

the central areas of campus. Marshall Charloff & the Purple XPeRIeNCE! Is scheduled to perform from 7 to 9 p.m. in the West Gym Courtyard. After the concert, there will be a fireworks display for all to enjoy.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, the party continues. A morning 5k is planned and will be hosted by the Panther Pacers, a student-organized running group at UNI. The 5k starts at 8 a.m., and those who want to participate must meet in the Campanile Plaza at that time. Registration for this event has passed – you may see individuals wearing commemorative shirts that

were provided for those who registered early.

At 11 a.m., UNI will be hosting a homecoming parade that will travel through Main Street in Downtown Cedar Falls. The parade will feature many UNI faculty and staff, as well as various student organizations. Viewers can find the Northern Iowan at the parade handing out our printed papers and other UNI-branded goodies.

After the parade, there are many sporting events taking place throughout Saturday. Women’s rugby plays Wisconsin at 11 a.m., softball plays Rock Valley at the Robinson-Dresser

Sports Complex, and volleyball faces Murray State in the McLeod Center – both at 1 p.m., and football is scheduled for 4 p.m. in the UNI-Dome.

Everyone is encouraged to attend these events, as they are free for UNI students through the UNItix website, unitix.uni.edu/ – the ticket will be sent to your phone, and can be scanned for entry at one of the UNI-Dome gates.

Homecoming is special for UNI alumni and current students combined. This gives many the chance to come back to campus and make new memories with their families and old friends.

Attending events hosted by UNI is the best way to connect with your peers. These events are safe, fun and worth a trip – students never know who they may make friends with. Alumni never know if they’ll run into an old classmate, and reconnect with them.

UNI’s homecoming is a weekend where the university gets to dress themselves up for visitors. Tailgates, parties and sports fill up a purple and gold weekend – and every student, faculty member, alumnus and Cedar Falls resident is able to enjoy these events.

UNI rings in 150 years with the Sesquicentennial Bell Ceremony

President Mark Nook gave a speech commemorating the ringing of the sesquicentennial bell on Monday, Sept. 29.

the sesquicentennial bell ring.

By Lily Munnik News Editor

The University of Northern Iowa officially launched its Sesquicentennial Celebration on Monday, Sept. 29, with the ringing of the newly dedicated Sesquicentennial Bell, marking the beginning of a yearlong celebration honoring 150 years of the university’s legacy.

Held at Commons Plaza, the First Ringing of the Sesquicentennial Bell drew students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to take part in a historic moment. The event featured a carillon concert, reflections from university leaders, ceremonial bell ringing and a ribbon-cutting

to usher in the milestone anniversary.

“Officially today, we move from the quiet planning phase to the public and — dare I say — noisy, with this bell here, celebration of 150 years of UNI,” said UNI

President Mark Nook, who spoke passionately about the university’s mission and its future.

“Today, at the start of the 150th, we renew our commitment to education,” Nook said. “The act of providing students with the knowledge, the skills and the habits of mind that they need to be successful in their personal lives, their professional lives and in their civic lives. We dedicate this bell, the sesquicentennial bell, a symbol of the enduring mission and

values of the University of Northern Iowa.”

Nook also announced that the bell will be permanently installed next to the Campanile.

“This bell will ring to mark the beginning of each semester, the joy of commencement and moments of reflection and celebration on our campus. It will stand as a lasting tribute to our proud past, our vibrant present and our bold future,” he said.

President Nook was joined by student body president Alli Webster and Noreen Hermansen, Vice President for Principal Gifts at UNI, in being the first to ring the bell. The ceremonial ribbon was cut by Nook and Katy Susong, President and CEO of GROW Cedar Valley.

This bell will ring to mark the beginning of each semester, the joy of commencement and celebration on our campus.”

– Mark Nook President of the

University of Northern Iowa

The celebration marks the official beginning of a more than yearlong series of events recognizing the university’s founding in 1876 and its ongoing role as a leader in education, innova -

tion and community engagement.

For more information about upcoming Sesquicentennial events, visit uni.edu/150.

‘A little piece of community’: Loving the annual Pear Fair

Schnathorst Staff Writer

For 14 years, Mohair Pear, an alternative store in Cedar Falls, has hosted its annual Pear Fair, a celebration of local artists held near their shop on College Hill. The event took place on Saturday, Sept. 27, and it attracted a steady crowd.

The 14th annual Pear Fair featured over 40 vendors, all set up under a fairly spacious tent, with a local DJ spinning an electric mix of music. Most of these artists were from the surrounding area, including Cedar Falls and Waterloo, as well as Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Mount Vernon, Dysart and Minnesota. Although there was a variety of handcrafted products for sale — ranging from plush toys made of yarn, pottery, accessories, mixed media, paintings, jewelry, shirts or combinations thereof — they all shared a common theme.

This was expressed by the owner of Doe and Dove, Lyric Tracy, who is an artist selling different items such as jewelry. Tracy said, “I hope people get to have a lot of joy and a lot of fun getting to see cool art, and maybe be able to step away from the world as it currently is for a while.”

People arrived and left all afternoon, enjoying food from the LaCalle Latin American food truck and

chatting with friends and family, a gesture appreciated by the founder of Steel Sorceress, Josie Schauls, who said that visitors can enjoy the art “even if they can’t afford it.”

Ella Syrnong from Plushy Haven echoed that sentiment, and said she hoped visitors “look at the arts, even if they can’t afford it, and have conversations with the artists.”

One UNI student reinforced the perspectives of local artists, mentioning that they “like supporting small businesses, and I think it’s so fun because everyone is so creative,” while another attendee said they “love the amount of artists that they would have never known about before.”

Ultimately, that’s what Pear Fair is about. People come to support — whether financially or respectfully — local artists who spend their time creating pieces that are meaningful to them, hoping that viewers will share a sense of gratitude and recognize the importance of local artists as a welcoming gateway to community acknowledgment.

As the owner of 83 Bowls beautifully put it, “I hope that they get to see things that they wouldn’t normally see, or have access to, and also potentially find a little piece of community that represents them and they can identify with.”

CAMPUS LIFE

UNI Homecoming through the years

By Cohen Huisman Campus Life Editor

The University of Northern Iowa has been celebrating its Homecoming for decades now, starting traditions in the 1920s.

Although the school has been around for much longer and was formerly known as the Iowa State Teachers College, they would hold alumni reunions occurring during the Iowa Teachers Association and during Commencement Week as well.

The first actual Homecoming was announced by the College Eye on Oct. 20, 1920.

This would give the alumni a chance to come back “home” and celebrate the college.

The Special Collections and University Archives claim that “the first Homecoming went well. Teachers College defeated Parsons College on a muddy field, 14-0.

About 225 alumni, and a large number of students, enjoyed the pep assemblies, meals, game, and big party. Considering that the program

was put together very late, students deemed the whole event a great success.

In the 1930’s, many institutions started to clebrate Homecoming annually. In 1933, the 14th UNI Homecoming, saw a major change in the location of many activities.

With the opening of the new Commons, alumni meetings, several receptions, banquets, and the dance, were held in more gracious surroundings.

The new Commons, with its attractive facilities and services, was the centerpiece of the 1933 Homecoming. It would continue to serve as Homecoming headquarters for many years to come.

Alumni Services Director,

Sunday music faculty recital, as well as a college theater production, provided additional entertainment.

Homecoming was the same annually, celebrating with pep meetings and a theater productions being held on Fridays. Saturdays included alumni meetings, luncheons, the football game, dinner, social gatherings, movies and the dance. Sunday saw religious services, and sometimes a faculty recital.

There were minor changes to Homecoming in the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, but there were many events that took place during the time period that are important to the history of Homecoming as well as the school’s history as a whole.

In 1943 and 1944, the annual celebrations were canceled due to World War II. Many men were in the military, and WAVES/Army Air Force training detachments were held in several campus buildings.

1951 was the 75th of the founding of the Iowa State Teachers College, and the Homecoming theme was “75 Years of Teacher Education.”

A. C. Fuller, huddled with student leaders in an attempt to attract more alumni to return for the celebration. A

The parade began near downtown Cedar Falls, and ended up on UNI’s campus — which was the first time

there was an off-campus parade in decades.

1967 was the first Homecoming under the school’s current name — The University of Northern Iowa had the theme “Something Old, Something New.”

The Homecoming parade was returned to Saturday morning to accommodate high school bands that wished to march in it.

ty’s Sesquicentennial anniversary with special events, including the inauguration of the Sesquicentennial Bell and a historical exhibit in

The University of Northern Iowa’s history is like no other.”

Other traditional events remained in place: there was a queen election, a pep rally, a dance and a sack lunch picnic.

From 1970 to 2025, UNI has kept the traditions that everyone knows and loves.

Some of the modern traditions include Campaniling, where students gather under the campanile on Friday of Homecoming week and share a kiss in celebration, as well as the Homecoming parade, alumni reunions, sporting events, nightlife on College Hill.

This year, UNI’s Homecoming kicks off a year-long celebration of the universi-

Rod Library.

The University of Northern Iowa’s Homecoming History is like no other. A tradition that has impacted past, present, and future panthers should not be overlooked, and the University does an amazing job at making sure that we honor our traditions and universtity every single year.

To learn more about the history of UNI’s Homecoming, visit https://scua.library. uni.edu/uni-history/historical-essays/homecoming/ homecoming/uni-homecoming-history

UFC Fight Night Recap, UFC 320 Preview

By Mason Kalkbrenner Sports Writer

On Saturday, Sept. 27, UFC Fight Night took place in Perth, Australia. I made predictions last week on how I thought certain fights would end, and who the inevitable winners would be.

In the main event, I picked Carlos Ulberg to win against Dominick Reyes, and in the co-main, Jimmy Crute to defeat Ivan Erslan. Both of those picks were correct.

Ulberg ended the fight in 4 minutes, 27 seconds by knockout. He landed a wellplaced right hand, followed up with ground-and-pound shots for insurance. As I previously mentioned, the winner of this fight will most likely face the winner of Prochazka vs. Rountree.

By the end of this week, I believe the light heavyweight title eliminator match will be set. Crute won on familiar ground in his home country by rear-naked choke, displaying his elite jiu-jitsu skills. After the fight, Crute requested to be on the yet-to-be-announced card in Sydney in February. Overall, this card was entertaining and explosive as ever, which was impressive since injuries plagued the main card.

When the UFC returns to Australia in February, let’s

hope that card will be as good as this one.

This weekend, UFC 320 will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. It is headlined by Alex “Poatan” Pereira facing champion Magomed

Ankalaev in a light heavyweight title rematch, with Merab Dvalishvili defending his bantamweight championship against Cory Sandhagen in the co-main event.

Beyond the title fights, more

strong matchups are booked. As with last week, I have predictions for the five-fight main card.

To open the main card, it’s a middleweight bout between Joe Pyfer and Abusupiyan Magomedov. Pyfer won his last fight in June by decision against Kelvin Gastelum, a former championship challenger. He is the betting favorite, and for good reason. He’s a sharp boxer with a high fight IQ. While I don’t expect a finish against the tough Magomedov, I believe Pyfer’s skills will secure a win.

After that, Josh Emmett will take on Youssef Zalal in a featherweight bout. Emmett is coming off a loss to rising star Lerone Murphy in April, while Zalal defeated Calvin Kattar in February.

This will be a tough fight, but I think Zalal will be the victor. He has a strong striking style and a wide submission portfolio. A win for Zalal would be a bold statement in the featherweight division and could send him further up the rankings.

Next up is my personal favorite fight of the night: Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree. Both are coming off wins over former champion Jamahal Hill, but Prochazka is favored. I don’t think this fight will go the distance. I pick Prochazka

to come out on top by knockout and continue his quest for vengeance and UFC gold.

In the co-main event, Dvalishvili will try to defend his bantamweight championship against Sandhagen. Sandhagen is an incredible fighter, with his last win coming at UFC Des Moines. However, Dvalishvili is above everyone else in the bantamweight division by multiple levels.

He will continue his championship reign with a win, but Sandhagen will not make it easy. The fight will likely span all five rounds, with Dvalishvili earning a decision victory.

Finally, Pereira looks to reclaim his light heavyweight championship against Ankalaev in the main event. Ankalaev narrowly defeated Pereira in March in a close fight to win the title.

The decision sent shockwaves through the UFC community, as many fans thought “Poatan” was robbed of a victory. I think Pereira will come out on top in the rematch. With how much this fight means to him and how deadly his striking is, it’s hard to bet against a knockout victory.

UFC 320 will be available for purchase on ESPN+ and streams Saturday, Oct. 4, at 9 p.m. ET.

UNI volleyball picks up big MVC wins

By Nicole Waters Sports Writer

Panther volleyball started weekend play against the University of Illinois Chicago Flames. The first set saw UNI jump to a quick 6-0 lead, highlighted by an ace from Reese Booth. UIC pulled within four at 12-8 before Jadyn Petersen answered with an ace for the Panthers. The Flames continued to battle, but Northern Iowa’s offense stood strong to secure a 25-19 win. Molly Shafer, Lindsay Oldendorf, Maryn Bixby, Isabelle Elliott and Lily Dykstra each had two kills in the set.

UIC came out hot in the second set, grabbing a quick lead on the Panthers. UNI fell behind by as many as five but battled back to make it 20-18 and later 24-23. The Flames held on, though, to win the set 25-23.

The first 14 points of the third set were split between the teams until Northern Iowa grabbed an 8-7 lead and pushed ahead. UNI went on a 6-1 run to make it 19-12, but UIC responded with a 5-0 spurt to get within two. Hartman, Elliott, Oldendorf and Shafer helped the Panthers close out a 25-21 win.

Set four saw an early 2-2 tie broken by UNI, which never looked back. The Flames pulled within one at 12-11, but the Panthers used a 9-2 run, sparked by a Petersen ace,

to take control at 21-14. UIC made a late push, but Hartman sealed the deal for a 25-22 win as UNI closed out the match 3-1. In the second match of

the weekend, UNI faced Valparaiso. The Beacons started strong, taking a 5-1 lead behind their defense. Kate Shafer had an ace to pull UNI within three at 17-14,

but Valpo held on to win the first set 25-17. Elliott had four kills, while Oldendorf, Bixby and Dykstra each added two.

The second set saw the teams split the first 12 points before Valpo went on a 4-0 run. UNI responded with a 7-0 stretch that included two aces from Sydney Golden to take a 17-14 lead. The Beacons countered with a 5-0 run to go up 20-18, but Northern Iowa rallied to tie it at 21 and then closed on a 3-0 run to win 25-22. Elliott recorded seven kills in the set.

UNI overcame a seven-point deficit in the third set with a thrilling performance. The Panthers used a 7-1 run to pull within 15-14 and later a 5-0 run to take a 20-17 lead. Bixby added an ace to help secure the 25-22 win and give Northern Iowa a 2-1 match advantage.

In the fourth, UNI pulled away from a close start with an 8-2 run to build an 18-10 lead. Valpo battled back to tie it at 19 and then went ahead 21-19.

The Panthers answered with a 4-0 run that featured two aces from Golden to reach match point. After a video review on the final attack, Northern Iowa closed out a 25-23 win to take the match 3-1.

MLB Playoffs: Wild Card preview

By Michael Spahn Sports Editor Assistant

After 162 regular-season games, it’s time for playoff baseball. We’ve seen several surprise ballclubs make the postseason, while also seeing some familiar returners. Here is the playoff field and my predictions for the MLB wildcard round.

No. 4 Cubs vs. No. 5 Padres

The Cubs are back in the postseason for the first time since 2020, slated to host a strong Padres team in the wildcard round. The Northsiders have a solid combination of power and speed on the basepaths. Pete Crow-Armstrong burst onto the scene in 2025 and has arguably been the team’s best player. Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch have also been major threats in the lineup. The Cubs’ main weakness is pitching, especially with rookie of the year candidate Cade Horton sidelined for the wildcard round. Manny Machado has been the Padres’ best bat, leading the team with 27 home runs. Nick Pivetta, Michael King and Dylan Cease make up a standout rotation that could give the Cubs trouble.

We are set for a great series in Wrigleyville.

Prediction: Cubs win the series 2-1 No. 3 Dodgers vs. No. 6 Reds

The Dodgers are back in the postseason looking to defend their 2024 title. Their lineup needs no introduction, with postseason heroes Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts leading the way.

Los Angeles’ pitching staff has been stellar, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto stepping into the ace role in his rookie season. Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell provide October experience that will come in handy in big moments. The Reds are here on an improbable run, making the postseason for the first time since 2020. Manager Terry Francona knows what it takes to win in October,

with multiple World Series appearances. Elly De La Cruz has been dominant, leading the team in home runs and RBIs. Gavin Lux has also been a threat in Cincinnati’s lineup, leading the team in batting average. It’s truly the defending champs versus the Cinderella story in the National League wild-card round.

Prediction: Dodgers win the series 2-0 No. 4 Yankees vs. No. 5 Red Sox

Baseball’s best rivalry returns with the season on the line. The Yankees finished with the same record as the Blue Jays in the AL East, but Toronto held the tiebreaker. Aaron Judge put up another 60-home run season, leading the Yankees’ offense. New York also has a solid pitching rotation led by ace Max Fried. The Red Sox are back in the postseason despite trading star third baseman Rafael Devers at the deadline. Their offense is led by Trevor Story, who leads the team in batting average, home runs and RBIs. Boston also has two solid top-of-the-rotation pitchers in Garrett Crochet and Lucas Giolito. These are two teams

fairly evenly matched across the board. With Judge being the superstar he is, it’s hard not to side with the Yankees.

Prediction: Yankees win the series 2-1

No. 3 Guardians vs. No. 6 Tigers

Both of these teams battled until the end to see who would win the AL Central Division. That title went to the Guardians, who will hold home-field advantage in the wild-card round. Cleveland was once down 15 games in the division this season, marking one of the greatest divisional comebacks in history. José Ramírez has been dominant on offense, backed by a solid pitching rotation.

The Tigers are back in the postseason under World Series champion manager A.J. Hinch. Tarik Skubal headlines a strong pitching staff, followed by steady hitters like Riley Greene, Gleyber Torres and Spencer Torkelson. It’s hard to pick against a team that’s had as much recent success as the Guardians, so I like them to win the series.

Prediction: Guardians win the series 2-0

UNI runners show promise at Missouri

By Carter Lust Sports Writer

The Gans Creek Classic is one of the premier NCAA cross-country meets each year. Universities and colleges from across the country travel to Columbia, Missouri, for the first real test of the regular-season racing schedule. With over 50 schools in attendance, the contest divided teams into two divisions (Black and Gold) based on national ranking and size. The University of Northern Iowa men’s and women’s squads each competed in the Black Division against other Missouri Valley Conference opponents, mid-major institutions, and Power 5 universities.

The UNI men were awake bright and early for their 8:15 a.m. race, which took place under sunny skies and temperatures in the low 60s. Combined with the Gans Creek CrossCountry Course’s beautiful layout and well-maintained grass, the conditions were nearly perfect as the starting gun sounded. Northern Iowa would go on to finish 23rd out of 26 teams in their division, but can hold their heads high as each runner walked away with a new personal best time over the 8k distance – an encouraging sign as they enter the fall months.

After leading the Panthers

for the first two meets of the season, Colin Lillie was again the team’s top finisher on the day. Lillie placed 126th, breaking the 25-minute barrier for the first time in his career. Micah Rees also had a stellar morning, backing up Lillie with a 166th-place performance in 25:16.9. Trialing

Rees was freshman Ethan Olds, who also crossed the finish line in 25:23.2 for 174th overall. The trio of Ty Getz, Drew Dombrosky, and Josh Gormley packed up for the last quarter of the race before finishing 202nd, 207th, and 210th, respectively. Getz and Dombrosky snuck under the

26-minute mark with times of 25:55.3 and 25:57.0, while Gormley just eclipsed it by running 26:00.5. Jonas Vandis rounded things out for UNI by placing 228th in 26:21.8.

UCLA escaped with the Black Division team title by outscoring second-place Ohio State 86-112. On the individual side, Iowa Western Community College teammates Barnabas Ndiwa and Geofrey Ronoh used a final surge to claim the race’s top two spots. Ndiwa took the win in 23:42.1, and Ronoh followed with a 23:42.4.

With over two hours separating the men’s and women’s races, the Panthers faced more direct sunlight and temperatures around 70 degrees at 10:30 a.m. However, little wind kept racing conditions favorable, and the UNI women made the most of them with a competitive 14th-place finish out of 26 teams.

Freshman Lindsey Sonderman paved the way for Northern Iowa by finishing 73rd in a new personal best of 22:02.9 over 6k. Leah Klapatauskas and Meghan Wheatley were not far behind, as the trio of UNI frontrunners stuck together until the final kilometer. Klapatauskas ran 22:05.4 for 78th place, while Wheatley set a new personal best of 22:06.9 en route to finishing 82nd. Senior Melody Ochana followed suit with a

130th-place outing in 22:39.4. Kaylee Woolery brought home the Panther scorers in 22:55.2 for 147th overall. Trailing her was the freshman duo of Josee Simonson and Evie Henneberry, who had been partnered together for the majority of the race before Simonson began to pull away over the last third of the contest. Simonson finished 162nd in 23:12.3, and Henneberry brought the Panthers home in 23:25.5 for 171st place.

Stanford easily captured the Black Division team win by scoring 52 points compared to runner-up Texas A&MCorpus Christi’s 142. Elizabeth Khatevi of the Islanders comfortably took the top individual spot in 19:58.8. Khatevi pulled away from second-place Evyn Humphrey of Tulsa throughout the back half of the race, as Humphrey crossed the line in 20:14.6.

Both of the Northern Iowa men’s and women’s cross-country teams will compete next at the Bradley Pink Classic on Oct. 17. The short trip to Peoria, Illinois, will conclude the regular season of racing for both groups. The Panthers will look to use the momentum they built throughout the year to power them through the Missouri Valley Conference Championships before taking on the NCAA Midwest Regional meet.

Panther football finds new direction

By Tyler Wood Sports Writer

After the departure of former coach Mark Farley, the UNI football program needed a new coach to lead it to success. The program was looking through the résumé of a successful coach from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Two-time Pioneer Football League Coach of the Year, back-to-back conference titles and multiple playoff appearances are tremendous accolades to have, and they belonged to Todd Stepsis.

Stepsis quickly found the difficult position that the Panther football program was in. They struggled to find wins last year, and the team lacked strength on all sides of the ball. As of now, the Panthers are 2-2 this season. That already nearly matches last year, when UNI managed only three wins. This success can be credited to the leadership of new head coach Stepsis and the turnaround in culture the team has found.

The culture of the UNI program, according to Stepsis, is to “leave it better than you

found it.”

“How can we be intentional about being the best part of each other’s day?” Stepsis said. “When you make it about building lifelong relationships and not the outcome, the wins and championships find you.”

There’s no doubt that Stepsis can create a championship-caliber team. He’s been in this position before at Drake, after extremely successful seasons with the

Bulldogs. Stepsis found ways to win at Drake, finishing with a conference record of 27-18 in the Pioneer Football League. Transitioning that success to UNI shouldn’t be a problem.

Finding success as a football team comes from worrying about the things the team can control. “Our attitude and the energy we bring every day has been fantastic,” Stepsis said.

One area the Panthers can

improve on this season is the run game. “We need to be better at running the football,” he said. “We play in one of the best leagues in the nation, and the best teams are able to run the ball.”

The Panthers have rushed for 455 yards so far this season, which ranks them ninth in the conference. To improve that number, the Panthers need to win the line of scrimmage.

“We’re getting there,” Stepsis said. “We’re gaining valuable experience on offense.” It’s only a matter of time, he added, before the young players figure out how to open bigger holes in the defensive line for the rushing attack to become more explosive.

Leaders in the locker room are important to monitor things that coaches might not see off the field, as well as to provide leadership on it. The team captains are tight end Derek Anderson and linebacker Tucker Langenberg. Every position group has a team captain, according to Stepsis.

“They have all done a great job communicating the

message from me,” he said. “And they all hold each other accountable.” The players are doing their part, and their early-season success is a product of great leadership in the building.

Stepsis has seen his share of success early on this season, but there were also challenges when he took the job at UNI.

“Being new, getting to know everybody is super important. Every player is part of the process, and I want to know every single one of them,” Stepsis said. He doesn’t take any player for granted. They’ve built a family inside the program.

Stepsis also said he received a warm welcome. “Everybody was so welcoming,” he said. “It’s tough replacing a legend, but everybody loves the Panthers.”

Stepsis might have big shoes to fill, but so far he’s done an impressive job. Now, the challenge is finishing the season strong and proving that the Panthers can win championships.

CROSSWORD BY

RYAN SALES

Across

1) Basic principles

5) Shocks, in a way

10) Ads that raise awareness

14) Urban unrest

15) Wouldn't hurt ___

16) Farmland measure

17) It's 3rd floor is very quiet

19) Branch of Islam

20) "Cut ___" ("Stop that")

21) Boo-boo

22) Thailand, formerly 23) School functions with chaperones

25) Sunday morning speech

27) Apple desktop

29) "Same here"

32) Long tale

35) Explosions

39) Allow

40) ___-Wan Kenobi

41) Goes extinct

42) Music producer Brian

43) Be under the weather

44) Wrap around

45) Scientology founder Hubbard

46) Hajj destination

48) What one might say

Mark Nook has

50) Author Melville

54) Duo _____, phone authentication software

58) Start of an incantation

60) Asia's ___ Sea

62) Birdlife

63) Island rings

64) Locale of the University of Northern Iowa

66) Simplicity

67) Wet, weather-wise

68) The "T" of TV

69) What Band-Aids aid

70) Town in Iowa

71) River of Hades

Down

1) Deodorant brand whose name suggests dryness

2) Flora and fauna

3) Genetic triplet

4) Caribbean island nation south of Martinique

5) Key above Caps Lock 6) Jackson 5 hairdo

7) Cabbage salads

8) Spooky

9) Nay follower

10) John Dos ___

11) Place to get educated on education

12) Opera solo

13) Clothes line

18) One of 64 in Minecraft

24) Building near Maucker Union

26) Sail support

28) New England catches

30) Wine: Prefix

31) "Psst! Pass ___!"

32) "___ told": "That's the rumor"

33) Up to the task

34) Where you might find the Admissions Office at UNI

36) Japan's largest active volcano

37) Fa followers

38) The sound Netflix makes when you open it

41) Start of a diary entry

45) Test subjects in a maze

47) Puts an end to

49) Landing place for Santa 51) Prefix with economics

52) Regions 53) 1976 Olympic gymnastics gold medalist ___ Comaneci

55) Cove

56) Eli ___ and Company

57) Earl of ___, favorite of Elizabeth I

58) Actor Baldwin

59) Boyfriend

61) UNI Building originally named Auditorium Building

65 "The Catcher in the ___"

Weekly Horoscope

October 1, 2025