The contributions of University of Iowa staff were represented during the Hawkeye takeover at the State Capitol in Des Moines on March 31. Staff Council was among dozens of units and organizations across campus to send representatives to the Hawkeye Caucus, in which Black and Gold fills the main rotunda in the Capitol building. The purpose is to engage lawmakers, staff, and visitors and grow awareness about the value of the University. This was the first in person Hawkeye Caucus since the COVID-19 pandemic began.  

Thirteen Staff Councilors attended including Kevin Zihlman, Brian Morelli, Jamie O’Meara, Erika Holm-Brown, Mihaela Bojin, Brett Cloyd, Shari Heick, James Jorris, Rubia Ruiz, Teri Schnelle, Molly James, Brian Douglas, and Jackie Kleppe. Staff Council had a table with information and handouts to help tell the story of the remarkable contributions of Staff to the University and State. Council members were able to share specific stories of helping students thrive, connecting students to jobs in Iowa, and sparking a passion for research and education, and were met warmly by lawmakers.