Regents Awards for Faculty and Staff Excellence Presented at UNI

The Board of Regents presented its Regents Awards for Faculty and Staff Excellence to five faculty and staff members at the University of Northern Iowa during the October Board meeting. UNI Interim President Jim Wohlpart joined Regents President Bruce Rastetter to present the awards.

Two UNI faculty, listed below, were honored. Recipients must have been employed by UNI for a minimum of 15 years and achieved distinction in at least two of the following areas: Teaching, research or creative activity, extension/professional practice, and service.

Mohammad Iqbal came to UNI in 1994 and is a member of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. Professor Iqbal has taught eight different courses during his tenure and is an accomplished researcher. He has published 21 refereed journal articles and has been the principle investigator on numerous grant awards for UNI.

Jeffrey Tamplin arrived at the UNI Biology Department in 2001 and has generated more than half a million dollars in grant money since then. Professor Tamplin’s name is well known among those who study reptiles and amphibians and he has earned numerous awards for his efforts in the classroom. In addition, Tamplin has volunteered his knowledge and expertise on a variety of university and community committees. 

Additionally, three staff members were honored. Regents Awards for Staff Excellence recognize staff contributions and service to the university, community, and broader society. Awardees must have been members of the university staff for at least five years.

Michele Peck, assistant director of advising development in the Office of Academic Advising, is a talented and dedicated academic adviser. Peck helps run the university’s student information system and is highly regarded across campus by all who work with her. 

Matt Nuese, associate director of Career Services, is an example of a top-notch adviser. Alumni seek out Nuese for career advice long after graduation, demonstrating the level of trust and engagement he pursues. Nuese volunteers his time with campus tours and a number of off-campus events, in addition to serving on a variety of committees.

Katherine Cota, associate director for the UNI John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, is a passionate and caring employee. Cota is a leader of the JPEC team and was named to the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier 20 Under 40 list. In addition, Cota has been recognized many times as a Women of Innovation finalist by the Technology Association of Iowa.