Over the past 25 years, Shonda Monette has known the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as a graduate student, faculty member, staff member, and now, president of CLAS Staff Council. As the university's largest college, CLAS spans more than 40 departments and countless disciplines, perspectives, and areas of expertise. That breadth presents a challenge: how do you help people across dozens of departments feel connected to something larger than themselves? That's where Shonda comes in.

University of Iowa physicists have identified a possible driving force behind massive disturbances in the magnetic environment of Mars. They analyzed the constituents of Mars’ magnetotail — magnetic plume that extends outward from the planet for more than 1,500 miles.

Chemists in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences have developed a light-activated crystal structure that captures and stores water from the air using only sunlight. The proof-of-concept discovery could one day lead to energy-efficient technologies that help address global water scarcity, especially in regions with limited access to clean water.

First published results from Iowa-led NASA mission reveal new details of sun-Earth interaction. Physicists led by the University of Iowa have documented in the finest detail to date how energy from the sun interacts with Earth’s magnetic field, which could yield greater insights into solar effects on Earth that drive space weather.

Women who engage in light physical activity and lessen their sedentary time may significantly reduce the risk of key health problems during pregnancy, according to a new University of Iowa-led study.

Celsiana Warwick, assistant professor in the University of Iowa Department of Classics, explains why the ancient poem still feels strikingly modern — and what students and readers can learn from it today. Her forthcoming book, Gendered Voices in the Iliad, will be published by Oxford University Press in August.

Thirteen CLAS students have been selected from more than 10,000 applicants nationwide to receive Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards for the 2026–27 academic year.

At the University of Iowa, wellness means something a little different to everyone—and for Rachel Spengler, that flexibility is exactly the point. A faculty affairs specialist in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' Dean’s Office, Rachel has been with the university for two and a half years. In that time, she’s not only supported faculty work behind the scenes but has also built a strong presence as a wellness advocate within her department and beyond.

Religious studies students were honored at the annual E.P. Adler Awards Reception on May 11 at Old Brick. The event, endowed through the generosity of the late Philip and Henrietta Adler and supported by the family of Lloyd and Betty Schermer, recognizes graduate and undergraduate students for academic excellence, research, teaching, and service. Awards span Jewish studies, Catholic studies, Native American religion, social justice, and more.

Monica Correia, professor of 3D design and collegiate scholar in the University of Iowa School of Art, Art History, and Design, has received a Fulbright Scholar Award to France, among the highest honors in international academic and cultural exchange. Her project will be conducted at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Industries Textiles (ENSAIT) GEMTEX Laboratory in Roubaix, part of the University of Lille.