Every student deserves the chance to see themselves on a college campus, not just imagine it.

At Upper Iowa University, that belief is at the heart of who we are. For many students across Iowa and beyond, the dream of college feels exciting but distant. The cost of transportation alone can prevent students from ever setting foot on a campus that could change their lives. For transfer students, busy schedules can also make visiting campus challenging. The goal is to remove transportation costs as a barrier and make campus experiences more accessible.

The purpose of this fund is simple but powerful: to help students experience Upper Iowa University through immersive, inspiring campus visits. Whether first-year or transfer students, this fund helps remove barriers so future Peacocks can visit campus. UIU will cover transportation costs for both large and small groups of students from other colleges and high schools who visit the campus.

During their visit, students will:

• Attend a personalized admissions presentation to understand the path from high school to college.

• Participate in a guided campus tour to envision themselves living and learning in a supportive community.

• Engage in an academic visit aligned with their interests, connecting directly with faculty and programs.

• Experience student experiences firsthand, including enjoying a meal in the university cafeteria.

• Leave with possible UIU swag, carrying home not just a memento, but a tangible reminder that they belong at Upper Iowa University.

When students walk through campus, something shifts. College becomes real. Attainable. Personal.

A single campus visit can boost a first-generation student's confidence. It can transform uncertainty into ambition. It can help a student see a future they never thought possible.

By supporting this fund, donors are not just covering transportation costs; they are investing in access, exposure, and opportunity for ALL students regardless of their college journey. They are helping students picture themselves in a classroom, in a residence hall, in a future career.

They are helping turn “maybe someday” into “I can.”

This campaign is about access. It is about opening doors.

Offline Donations Include: Thomas Petsche, Bill DeLauro, James Middendorf, Katie Bevers, Josh Gredys, Dawn Novak, McKenna Massman, and Ronald Bergfeld.

Thanks!