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UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA CEDAR FALLS, IA THURSDAY, APRIL 5 VOLUME 114, ISSUE 42
CEDAR FALLS, IA
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2025
VOLUME 121, ISSUE 26
Students protest during Applied Engineering building ribbon cutting, Gov. Reynolds is no-show
JOSUE VILLATORO/NORTHERN IOWAN
See RIBBON CUTTING, page 2
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
UNI hosts annual ‘Out of the Darkness’ suicide prevention walk LILY MUNNIK Staff Writer
CAMPUS LIFE
Debate Team members Kat Van Buren and Burke Doyle traveled to Gonzaga University to compete in a national debate tournament.
SEE PAGE 7
SPORTS
Sports Writer Carter Lust recaps the Track and Field meet that took place at Wartburg College last weekend.
SEE PAGE 9
The University of Northern Iowa hosted its annual Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk on Saturday, April 5, 2025, on the UNI campus. The event, which serves as a fundraiser for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), brings together individuals, families and communities in support of suicide prevention research, education and survivors of suicide loss. The walk was a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for ongoing conversations about suicide prevention. Those who participated in the event shared personal stories, heartfelt motivations and insights on why events like this are essential in shaping a supportive campus culture around mental health. For many participants, joining the Out of the Darkness Walk was more than just about raising funds—it was a way to connect with others who share a similar mission. Sam Hospodarsky, assistant director of Student Success & Retention says,
“I want everyone at UNI to know that they are not alone and that the world is a better place with them in it.” She went on to emphasize the importance of supporting access to mental health care for all, saying, “Mental health matters. Every single human being deserves access to mental health care and I want to do what I can to support that mission.” Nathalia Pizarro, a UNI student who volunteered at the event, shared a deeply personal reason for attending: “I dealt with personal struggles in the past, and while I use mental health resources now, I always reflect on it and realize there are many others who have felt like me. Everyone goes through mental health struggles, and the last thing I want is for others to feel like they’re alone in this.” Events like the Out of the Darkness Walk provide an opportunity to open up crucial conversations around mental health and suicide, particularly in a university setting. Pizarro says, “This event did great with providing resources and discussions on furthering research for mental health. I benefited most from it when
TRISTAN DUMKRIEGER/NORTHERN IOWAN
Students on campus participated in the Out of the Darkness walk, a fundraiser for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention over the weekend.
the keynote speaker mentioned how to see the signs of someone who could have suicidal thoughts, and how to help them.” The discussion surrounding mental health was not just academic; it was personal and practical. “It is great that the people who attended got to learn,” said Pizarro. “However, I would hope this is something everyone on campus knew. This event not only helped UNI students but the community in the Cedar Valley as well. It is important for us all to have a great understanding of these topics in suicide and mental
health because the transparency provides comfort to those who feel this way.” The event also served as an important reminder that even small actions can make a big difference. Pizarro points out, “It comes down to the faculty, staff and students. Not saying we will always notice the signs of suicidal thoughts, but people at times just need a welcoming environment. So a simple ‘hello’ or even a smile makes anyone’s day better.” The Out of the Darkness See OOTD WALK, page 2