Articles from August 2026

Two students in the Writing Center sitting in chairs

Starting grad school, a CLAS alumna shares advice for undergraduates

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Beginning a new semester can be overwhelming, whether it's your first semester at the University of Iowa or your last. Here are helpful tips from a CLAS graduate to help you have a successful school year.
Emily O'Borctha sits at a desk with an open book in-hand.

CLAS English student builds confidence through literature, writing, and community

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
CLAS’s English program connects students with a literary community that helps students develop confidence in their writing and finding their own voices. The University of Iowa’s highly recognized writing programs draw students from across the country and around the world, shaped by collaboration, creativity, and a shared love of storytelling. 
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CLAS student Jack Cantorna launches Iowa's first ‘APPstinence’ club

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Created by a Harvard alumna, the 'APPstinence' club aims to help Hawkeyes cut back on screen time and build healthier relationships with technology.
two students sit together in front of a green, yellow, blue, orange, and red backdrop. The students are in coversation and laughing at their desks.

Program offerings in the Department of Linguistics, Languages, Literatures, and Cultures open countless doors for students

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
With 14 areas of study in the Department of Linguistics, Languages, Literatures, and Cultures, students have endless opportunities for success, at the University of Iowa and beyond.
A rendering of the Mars rover Perseverance on Mars, which is a project that the University of Iowa is involved with.

CLAS researcher finds gemstones on Mars using NASA rover

Wednesday, August 26, 2026
A planetary geologist from the University of Iowa is part of a team using one of NASA’s rovers on Mars that’s found the makings for precious gems like rubies and sapphires in the Martian soil.
A headshot of University of Iowa professor David Gooblar.

David Gooblar puts teaching at the center of student success

Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Associate professor of English David Gooblar explores how equitable teaching can help more students thrive.
Ali Hval holds rhinestone-covered paint-roller in a pink, bedazzled room

CLAS assistant professor Ali Hval finds the bigger picture in painting, drawing, and public art

Friday, August 21, 2026
From oversized charms to community murals, Hval’s work explores how art can take on new meanings in the spaces where people live and gather.
Rodriguez Fielder headshot

Where literature and lived experiences meet: Elizabeth Rodriguez Fielder’s path as a scholar and educator

Friday, August 21, 2026
Since joining the Department of English and American Studies at Iowa, Rodriguez Fielder has brought together research, teaching, and mentorship to help students turn their curiosity into deeper questions about the world around them.
University of Iowa IT Leadership Award Recipients Brad Carson (left) and Jeff DeReus (right) from the TRACERS team.

Leadership awards recognize CLAS IT staff at Tech Forum 2026

Thursday, August 20, 2026
The IT staff members supporting the TRACERS mission, which is the largest grant in University of Iowa history, received an IT Leadership Award.
A headshot of award-winning author and Iowa Writers’ Workshop graduate Tony Tulathimutt, the inaugural recipient of the Jack Galef Literary Arts Award.

CLAS grad Tony Tulathimutte receives inaugural Jack Galef Literary Arts Award

Thursday, August 20, 2026
Award-winning author and Iowa Writers’ Workshop graduate Tony Tulathimutte is the inaugural recipient of the Jack Galef Literary Arts Award. Tulathimutte is a visiting faculty member in residence at the workshop this fall.