4-27-23

Former UNI provost continues

“no confidence” streak at NEIU

In December of 2008, Gloria Gibson was announced as the Executive Vice President and Provost of the University of Northern Iowa. On March 2, 2012, a vote of no confidence was passed by UNI faculty. In April of 2014, Gibson officially announced her resignation. In March of 2018, Gibson was announced as the president of Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU). NEIU decided not to renew Gibson’s contract in 2022, and in March, its faculty also passed a vote of no confidence against Gibson. As the second university to pass a vote of no confidence against Gibson, what has gone wrong?

When asking most professors who were at UNI during Gibson’s time, they’ll refer to her years as Provost as “The Dark Ages.” In her time at UNI, Gibson signed off on the decisions to close UNI’s hallmark Price Lab and cut academic programs, all without consulting the faculty. Throughout Rod Library’s IndexUNI on Gloria Gibson, it’s illustrated that through 2008, UNI went

through severe budget cuts, almost directly after Gibson’s appointment. Under Gibson in 2011, the College of Humanities and Fine Arts and College of Natural Sciences became the College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences that we know today. In 2011 came more budget cuts, and in early 2012 the UNI Museum and Price Lab were slated to be shuttered. Closely following that, the athletics program suffered further

cuts after the budget cuts they took in 2008, and academic programs were announced to be shutting down or merged with other programs. These budget cuts, academic program cuts and the shutting down of the Price Lab sent the campus awry, especially with the risk of 70 programs being closed completely, restructured, or suspended.

This uproar prompted an op-ed from then student body president Spencer Walrath to appear in the Northern Iowan, alongside peaceful protests from students upset about their programs in jeopardy of being closed. Not long after this was announced, the UNI faculty passed a vote of no confidence in Gibson with a vote of 172-69 on March 2, 2012. Shortly after this, the world languages programs condensed to Spanish and Spanish Teaching, and the sciences programs were also condensed. Gibson officially resigned from her post as Provost on June 30 of 2014. These occurrences are what defines this time period as “The Dark Ages” for some UNI professors.

After her time at UNI, Gibson had a short stint as Provost for Morgan State

University, and she was appointed as NEIU’s President in 2018. Her contract was not renewed in 2022, and recently, NEIU’s faculty passed a vote of no confidence against Gibson. Scott Andrews, first year transfer student at NEIU and writer for NEIU’s student newspaper, the Independent, explained some of the struggles occurring at NEIU from a student’s perspective. “The Board of Trustees did not renew Gibson’s contract due to failed leadership and lack of communication,” Andrews elaborated. “Over the past 10 years, NEIU has seen consistent enrollment decreases, which all universities did, due in part to COVID-19, but Gibson promised to address these enrollment issues and never did. On top of that, she also had failed collaboration promises with faculty.”

The relationship between NEIU’s Board of Trustees, who originally appointed Gibson, and NEIU’s faculty has been strained, especially since the faculty’s vote of no confidence in the Board of Trustees in December of 2022. “The faculty at NEIU loves their students and they love this university, but the administration is stone-

walling them,” Andrews commented. The lack of communication between NEIU faculty and administration has left faculty without fair contracts, and the faculty union is poised to strike within the week should mediations with administration fail. “Because of this, the semester may end one to two weeks early, students may be given the grades they currently have, which could lead to lower overall grades,” Andrews elaborated on the strike. According to Andrews, the current NEIU administration just isn’t in touch with the needs of faculty and students. “The average NEIU student is 27 years old, and the administration is trying to recruit younger students, which isn’t NEIU’s demographic.”

In a statement released by Gibson and current chairman of NEIU’s Board of Trustees, José Rico, they address their continued commitment to their faculty and students. “With the welfare of students in mind, we are fully committed to continue bargaining in good faith. We deeply appreciate our faculty and staff, who are all committed to our mission of preparing a diverse community of students for leadership and service in our region and in a dynamic multicultural world. While the university manages its financial concerns, we remain committed to our mission to serve our students, many of whom are young professionals and first-generation college students.”

El artículo para esta semana de N.I. en español se puede encontrar en nuestra página web de northerniowan.com

BAILEY KLINKHAMMER Associate Campus Life Editor

COURTESY/NEIU

Former UNI provost Gloria Gibson was named as president of Northeastern Illinois University in March of 2018. She received a vote of no confidence in March of this year, just as she received a vote of no confidence in 2012 during her time at UNI.

COLLECTIONS During her time at UNI, Gibson notably closed UNI’s Price Laboratory School in 2012, originally built in 1950.

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*Not pictured: Trevor Meyers, Aubrey Schafbuch

EMMA KOEHLER Managing Editor

EMMA KOEHLER Managing Editor

End of an Era: Benítez departs from the NI

NIXSON BENITEZ Executive Editor

The college search process and choosing the right fit was the hardest choice I have ever made in my life. I remember telling my voice coach Mary Anne Sims, also known as mama Sims, my official choice. She told me to not tell a single person for a week and to let the choice sit with me.

My name is Nixson Benitez, I am a first generation college student, and I knew that making this choice would not only impact my future, but also my entire family. My parents risked a lot coming to Iowa, and if I didn’t get this choice right, a lot was at stake. This pressure haunted me because this was all uncharted territory.

I came to UNI on a college tour with my cousin, and we both remember the connections we made. I then returned again by myself, and when the tour concluded, I was sitting alone during lunch in Maucker. I was invited over to sit with a couple of the leaders, and the connection I had at UNI just deepened. I told them the ideas I had and how I wanted to achieve them. During this time, I was making beats and music — and I wanted to go bigger.

The leaders told me if I came to UNI, that I could change the atmosphere, and that they would support me throughout the journey. From our conversations and

their support, I saw UNI like a second home. A week later I announced my choice to come to UNI.

The Faculty Avengers

I want to first thank all the faculty and staff at UNI. I also want to thank the custodians for their work and also the Piazza staff in Redecker. Every department at UNI shaped my experience from the food to the classrooms. I can’t thank you enough.

I also want to give a huge shout out to what I like to reference as the Faculty Avengers. Someone asked me one day what I thought of the faculty and I responded to them saying, “They are hands down the best in the state.” I even took it upon myself to reference and cast some of the faculty in what I believe to be the UNI Avengers. If I was given $100 million dollars to produce a huge film on the Iowa Avengers, it would have to be with the digital media staff. I can’t thank you all enough for taking me under your wings and giving me a platform to grow. I am truly proud of this department, and I will wear it like a sticker in the professional world.

Grateful for the Northern Iowan

I am extremely grateful to have been the Executive Editor for two years. This was the hard-

est role I have ever had, and I learned so much from being in it. My first year as the executive editor was the most challenging year, and the most learning I have ever experienced.

Before becoming the executive editor, I covered a Spanish beat for a semester, where I would report in both English and Spanish. I worked directly with the former News Editor, Elizabeth Kelsey, and former reporter Mario Mendez, who I hired later to be the first Spanish Editor. I had a good sense of the Northern Iowan, but never felt prepared or knowledgeable of the business and operations at the NI.

I felt burnt out my first year, and when the application process came around again I hesitated applying. Even though I was hesitant, I applied — this was

the best decision I ever made. I took the lessons that I learned my first year and implemented them in ways that could improve the newsroom. So many sections of the paper flourished, and our entire team continued to stay committed to reporting the news.

Being executive editor is a huge privilege, and I am truly grateful and honored to have carried the torch these past two years through uncharted waters.

To my entire staff: Thank you all for your contributions, ideas and conversations. You all truly made this the best experience for me. Y’all make me so proud and know I am hyping you up when I read each and everyone of your columns – especially the opinion section. I also can’t forget the social media and photography team y’all are just **Chefs kiss**.

Shout out to the team

To Mallory: I am grateful to have worked with you, I have learned so much from you. I will never forget our bonding in Minneapolis and conversations in improving the newsroom. I also will never forget our laughs and especially our Roblox connection.

Koehler bids farewell as Managing Editor

EMMA KOEHLER Managing Editor

My time has come to say goodbye to the student publication that has built my journalism education here at UNI. I started at the Northern Iowan as a writer in the spring of 2021 and since then, I’ve taken on the roles of photographer and managing editor during my time here. It has brought me so many meaningful conversations, relationships and connections while at UNI. It is while working for the Northern Iowan that I have felt such a strong sense of pride to be a student journalist and be a part of the journalism industry.

#AmericaNeedsJournalists

My highlights include reporting on Mikal Settle’s apparel feature in the bookstore, a recap of the Fast Forward Conference, a feature on student government, the April Fools issues and the layout designs of the 2022 Student Guide and NI’s 130th Anniversary issue. I have found great joy in managing the web-

site and digital versions of the work the newsroom puts forward, despite the beast that is WordPress. I have developed a love for design and graphics alongside writing. The variety that comes with working for the Northern Iowan is what would kept going.

I can’t talk about my time with the Northern Iowan without mentioning the courses and professors that set me up for success both in and out of the newsroom.

My first semester at UNI brought me the light and energy of Anelia Dimitrova. She was the first professor who I felt welcomed me with open arms into the Digital Media: Journalism Program and embraced who I was as a student journalist. She continues to be the best advisor, friend and motivator for me. My other amazing advisor, Chris Martin, is the best resource and support that helped me get through my education. I can’t forget about Scott Bredman, who encouraged me to step out of my major in pursuing other creative skillsets and is the

kindest individual who truly listens to you. Special shoutout to my high school journalism teacher, Deanna Zmolek, who ignited my passion for journalism and continues to keep up with my success today. A giant thank you to you all, as I wouldn’t be here today without the role you have played in my journey at UNI.

Many evenings have been spent in the basement of Maucker laughing, lounging on the couch and even shedding some tears. A special thank you to Sophie Hoffmeier and Mallory Schmitz for getting me through the rough evenings! I also cannot fail to mention Steph Stark for his witty emails and great photography that truly made my job easy. Hoffmeier will do amazing things in the managing editor role for the next academic year and I’m so excited to see what she will accomplish alongside Caroline Christensen as executive editor. I also know Schmitz and Stark will continue to do great things, along with the incoming executive team.

As cliche as it sounds, your college years really do fly by. I swear, I was just learning how to find my way around campus for the first time. However, there comes a time when you just feel ready to move on and say your goodbyes, for the next chapter

of your life to begin, even if you don’t exactly know what’s next. That’s right where I am, and while it is bittersweet, it sits well with me to come to this moment of farewell. NI, thank you for everything.

Courtesy of Nixson Benitez

The 2022- 2023 Northern Iowan staff had their final meal at Los Cabos.

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Sports Editor says goodbye, farewell

DAVID WARRINGTON Sports Editor

My journey with the Northern Iowan started in August 2020. It was my first week on campus as a freshman and I was still trying to figure out life as a college student when I saw an email. Colin Horning, the then-Sports Editor for the NI, reached out and asked me if I would be interested in writing for the sports team. I was immediately interested, and before long had been hired as a Sports Writer. After two years on the writing staff, I stepped into the role of Sports Editor after Colin graduated. Throughout my time at the NI, and this year as Sports Editor in particular, has been an experience that I’ll never forget.

I have countless people to be thankful to as this journey comes to an end. First of all, I have to say thanks to Colin. His email and deciding to give me a shot on the sports team is what started this entire journey. My first semester on staff, when Colin and I were constantly trying to fill the sports page despite all sports being cancelled due to COVID-19, was a particularly memorable start to my time at the

NI.

I also have to thank the rest of the outstanding editorial staff that has helped lead the NI to one of its best years in recent memory. Our Executive Editor, Nixson Benitez, has been the one leading the way throughout the past couple of years. Managing Editor Emma Koehler has also done outstanding work that oftentimes can go unnoticed, but without which the NI could not function. Lanie Weber joined the team as Social Media Manager this year, and during her time has helped guide the NI’s social media presence to new heights. Spanish Editor

Karina Ortiz and Campus Life Editor Diamond Roundtree have both been phenomenal contributors to the NI’s success, always putting together outstanding content on their sections. And of course, I have to give a shoutout to my favorite redheads, News Editor Mallory Schmitz and Copy Editor Sophie Hoffmeier. More importantly than your outstanding work, the two of you have been the cause of a lot of laughter in the office, and the NI is fortunate to have you both coming back next year.

I also need to thank my writing team. Caden Shea,

Drew Hill, Adam Johnson, Ben Lahart and Braden Elton have put together outstanding articles and worked hard to produce top notch content. In particular, I want to wish Caden the best of luck as the next Sports Editor. Caden was fantastic in his two years as a Sports Writer, and I have no doubt that will carry over as he steps into the editor role.

As one chapter of my life draws to a close, I am so thankful to all of those that made my time with the Northern Iowan enjoyable. This is a special student organization that does important work. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment to be a part of something bigger than yourself. Last November, the NI celebrated 130 years of existence. During that time, countless standout journalists have come and gone, many going on to have great careers in the professional journalism world. My three years on staff and one year as an editor doesn’t mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of 130 years. However, if I have been able to positively impact the Northern Iowan in a way that helps it be in a better position for the next 130 years, then I have done my job.

continued from page 1 Gibson’s leadership, which led to the “Dark Ages” of UNI is leading

NEIU to a similar place, between NEIU’s financial situation, enrollment issues, and the relationships between administration, faculty and stu -

dents. NEIU’s Board of Trustees will be looking for leadership to replace Gibson, and said president will take on the aforementioned issues left behind

by Gibson. Re-stabilizing NEIU will take time, and the consequences of some of the decisions made by NEIU administration will be felt by students and

faculty alike for years to come.

DAVID WARRINGTON/NORTHERN IOWAN After three years on the sports staff and one year as the Sports Editor, David Warrington says farewell.

GLORIA GIBSON

2022-23 Sports Story of the Year

300: Coach Warren’s legacy continues to grow

ADAM JOHNSON Sports Writer

The UNI women’s basketball team came into their game against Valpairaso on a roll, having won four consecutive games. The Panthers have been making their way up the standings in the conference, and with a win against Valparaiso, they would get a share for first place in the conference. The Panthers were able to do just that, with a dominant performance against the Beacons.

In the early going of the game it was a tight contest. The Beacons held a small 13-11 lead with two minutes left in the first quarter, but the Panthers quickly

showed why they are at the top of the conference. They finished the quarter on an 8-0 run that was capped off by a Grace Boffeli 3-pointer with just five seconds left on the clock. The Panthers led 19-13 after the first.

In the second quarter, the Panthers gradually added to their lead. It got cut into a couple of times, so they were never able to completely pull away, but they took a solid 37-26 lead into the halftime break.

After the half, the Panthers came out on fire.

Kam Finley started it off with a 3-pointer that sparked a 14-2 run. After the end of the run, the Panthers were ahead 51-28. The Beacons quickly countered with an 11-0 run of their own, nearly

cutting the Panthers lead in half. The Panthers rebounded with their second big run of the quarter, finishing off the third quarter 10-1. This gave the Panthers a convincing 61-40 lead into the fourth.

The Panthers did not let up in the final quarter, getting up by as much as 27 points. The Beacons had no chance of making a comeback, and the Panthers came away with the victory, 83-60.

While this was a huge victory to get the Panthers to first place in the conference, it was an even bigger victory for Head Coach Tanya Warren. With the UNI win, Coach Warren recorded her 300th career victory. The game also marked her

507th game coached, giving her the all-time record for games coached in the Missouri Valley Conference, two amazing milestones for Coach Warren.

“Today was another terrific team win,” Coach Warren said after the game.

“As for the milestones today, I can’t say enough about the past and present people who have helped me throughout the course of my journey. This milestone could not be possible without them. This is way bigger than me, it always has been. It’s a lot to take in. It’s hard to process that I was introduced to this game at five and for 50 plus years had my dad at my side. We lost him in June and I’m still trying to process all of this without him. It’s a lot

and I’m extremely blessed to be surrounded by amazing people. Our administration, our staff, our players. This is all a credit to everybody that’s been a part of this program.”

All in all, it was a great day for the Panthers. However, things are only getting more exciting. The Panthers next game is against conference co-leader Illinois State. The Panthers won the first matchup, but the winner of this one will be in sole possession of first place in the conference. The Panthers will be hosting Illinois State in the McLeod Center on Thursday, Feb. 16. The game will start at 6 p.m.

2022-23 Sports Photo of the Year

The 2022-23 Northern Iowan Sports Photo of the Year is awarded to Steph Stark’s photo following Maya McDermott’s game winner to defeat Drake at the Knapp Center in Des Moines, Iowa on Jan. 11, 2023.