Apr 27, 2026

News/Notes for Undergraduate Academic Advisors: Advisor KNOW HOW: Reaching Students in a Changing Communication Landscape | Studies in Sexuality, Women & Gender | Don't Forget about Study Abroad

Advisor KNOW HOW: Reaching Students in a Changing Communication Landscape 
  • Reaching Students in a Changing Communication Landscape  | Tuesday, April 28, 2026 |  Noon - 1:00 p.m. | Rod Library Scholar Space
  • Facilitated by Dr. Nikki Zumbach Harken (Director of Internships/Associate Professor of Instruction/Co-Coordinator, Cornerstone)
  • Student communication preferences are shifting rapidly—sometimes noticeably from one incoming class to the next. As attention patterns, digital habits, and expectations around tone continue to evolve, faculty and staff are seeking new tools to connect more effectively.
  • Join Dr. Nikki Zumbach Harken and a dynamic panel of UNI students for an interactive workshop exploring how to craft clear, compelling, and student-centered communication across email, presentations, and video.
  • Participants will learn the core concepts shaping modern communication, practical do’s and don’ts, and real examples of what resonates (and what doesn’t) with today’s learners. Through student insights and guided discussion, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to increase clarity, engagement, and response rates in their outreach.
Studies in Sexuality, Women & Gender
  • The Women's and Gender Studies program invites students to explore how social and cultural factors shape people’s lives, opportunities, and communities.
  • Students gain analytical and communication skills that enhance any major or career path and the program encourages inquiry that supports fairness, leadership and community involvement, and global understanding.
  • The Studies in Sexuality, Women and Gender minor is an undergraduate interdisciplinary and multicultural program that engages in research and exploration concerning all areas of human experience.  View a list of courses offered in Fall 2026 for the program.
  • Students or advisors with questions about WGS/SWAG curriculum should contact Cori Martin (cordelia.martin@uni.edu).  For an advisement meeting about the SWAG minor, contact the Director of Women's and Gender Studies, Jesse Swan (jesse.swan@uni.edu).

                 Fall 2026 WAGS Classes   

Don't Forget about Study Abroad
  • Donut Forget About Study Abroad  Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - Noon | Study Abroad Center Lobby (103 East Bartlett)
  • Stop by for a donut and relaxed conversation about studying abroad - whether curious about a summer group program, a short-term summer option, or spending a full semester away, this event is a great chance to learn more and connect with the study abroad team
  • We’ll highlight winter programs in Iceland, Australia, and Chile, but if a student is interested in a different study abroad opportunity, our staff will be available to answer questions and explore options with them
  • While supplies last, a student can also create their own mini first aid kit and stuff a plush companion to take along on their study abroad adventure!  
Is Your Student Questioning their Current Major?
  • Help them Pivot with Purpose by referring them to the Office of Academic Advising. Advisors offer personalized support to help students explore:
    • Major, minor, and certificate options | Reasons for changing majors (e.g., lack of interest, career goals, academic challenges) | Self-assessments like FOCUS 2 or Strong Inventory | Goal-setting and decision-making strategies
  • Encourage students to schedule an appointment or complete the Academic Discuss Your Major Options Request Form.
  • As a faculty or staff member, you can complete this referral form to start the outreach to a student considering changing their major.
Institutional Academic Advising Vision & Mission Statement (revised Spring 2016) [See Academic Advising Mission, Vision, Goals & Outcomes webpage]
  • Vision Statement: UNI aspires to create the best possible advising experience for each student.
  • Mission Statement: Academic Advising is a critical component of the teaching and learning environment at UNI. Advising is a personalized educational experience, empowering students to explore, articulate and achieve their academic, career and life goals.