Norm Nielsen Elected Chair of Buena Vista University Board of Trustees
May 21, 2012
Dr. Norm Nielsen, Cedar Rapids, has been elected as new chair of the Buena Vista University Board of Trustees. A 1961 graduate of Buena Vista, he was appointed to the Board in 2005.
$1,000 Grant to Beaver Buddies
May 16, 2012
The BV Buddies Mentoring program recently received a $1,000 grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation. BV Buddies provides an opportunity for Storm Lake Middle School students to receive academic and emotional encouragement from BVU student volunteer mentors.
Choir Concert To Recognize 12 Graduating Seniors
May 15, 2012
The Buena Vista University Concert Choir will present its final concert of the 2011-2012 season at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 20 in Schaller Memorial Chapel on the BVU campus. The event is free and open to the public.
EDGEFest 2012 is May 19 at Sunset Park
May 14, 2012
EDGEFest 2012 — the eighth annual outdoor rock concert sponsored by Buena Vista University’s student-operated radio station, KBVU 97.5 — will benefit three area school and nonprofit organizations.
Commencement Set for May 26 with 775 Candidates for Degrees
May 14, 2012
Commencement is scheduled for Saturday, May 26. Seven hundred and seventy-five students are candidates for degrees, including 180 from the Storm Lake campus, 567 from Graduate and Professional Studies sites, and 28 who will receive master's degrees in education.
Hannula Makes the Most of ROTC at BVU
May 10, 2012
Corey Hannula knew he wanted to be a leader. Just two years into ROTC program at Buena Vista University, he has had those opportunities and more - gaining many valuable skills.
James Haahr Awarded BVU's Founders Citation of Excellence
May 09, 2012
James Haahr, Storm Lake, who served for nine years as chair of the Buena Vista University Board of Trustees, has been awarded BVU's Founders Citation of Excellence.
BVU Partnership Opens Door for Fellowship at Taiwan School
May 09, 2012
Buena Vista University is expanding opportunities for students to gain international knowledge and a global perspective. This summer, Sydney Snyder, a senior elementary education major at BVU, will travel to Taipei, Taiwan.
BVU Professors Visit North Korea to Prepare for Student Trip in 2013
May 08, 2012
Two Buena Vista University professors recently visited North Korea as part of their preparation to lead a spring 2013 student travel course to that country, one of the least-known and least-accessible nations in the world.
Over 200 Students Honored for Academic and Leadership Success
May 04, 2012
Buena Vista University honored over 200 students for outstanding accomplishments in academics and leadership at the annual Student Recognition Dinner. Many students receiving leadership awards also received academic honors.
Student Musical Duo Utilizes BVU's Technology Resources
May 02, 2012
When Justin Klein and Mark Haugen came to BVU, they knew they would earn a degree. They just didn't imagine they would also develop skills in music production and form the hip-hop duo "3 Wolf Moon."
Students Share Academic Work on Scholars Day
May 01, 2012
BVU's eighth annual Scholars Day was held on April 30. The day provided students from all disciplines the opportunity to present original research and other academic work in an interactive and intellectually engaging environment.
BVU Theatre Presents "Doubt, a Parable"
April 29, 2012
Buena Vista University Theatre presented "Doubt, a Parable" by John Patrick Shanley in April. The questions raised by the play are timely and a searing test of society’s assumptions about right and wrong, certainty and doubt.
Seniors of the Year Named
April 28, 2012
The BVU National Alumni Association's 2012 Seniors of the Year Awards were presented Kelli Bass, a mathematics and secondary education major from Boone, and Marcus Rihner, a mathematics major from Denison.
BVU Students Make Impression at Cognitive Science Conference
April 28, 2012
Two BVU students – Gladiola Esparza and Eloisa Estrada – were accepted to present at the 4th Annual Midwest Undergraduate Cognitive Science Conference in Bloomington, Ind. on April 15.
BVU Student Accepted for Competitive Science Fellowship
April 27, 2012
Caitlin Hof, a sophomore biochemistry, biology, chemistry and psychology quadruple major at BVU, has been accepted to the highly-competitive Sanford Program for Undergraduate Research for the summer of 2012.
Band Concert to Feature Renowned Tuba Player
April 27, 2012
The Buena Vista University Concert Band will perform its spring concert on Sunday, May 13 and will feature guest tuba soloist Andrew Hitz, a widely-recognized musician.
Perez to Present Research at International Conference
April 26, 2012
Kimberly Perez, a junior mathematics and biochemistry double major, will make a presentation on her research project at the International Conference of Algal Biomass, Biofuels and Bioproducts in San Diego, Calif., in June.
BVU Students Make Presentations at Iowa Academy of Science Annual Meeting
April 26, 2012
The largest group of Buena Vista University students in over two decades made presentations at the Iowa Academy of Science annual meeting in Mason City April 20-21.
Buenafication Day Logs Nearly 2,400 Hours of Service
April 25, 2012
Over 1,100 volunteers participated in Buena Vista University’s 99th annual Buenafication Day on April 24, contributing 2,376 hours of community service.
Jazz Choir to Present 2012 Show
April 25, 2012
The Buena Vista University Jazz Choir will present their annual production, Thursday evening, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Anderson Auditorium. The ensemble will present choreographed and stand-up jazz selections.
BVU Students Place Third at ROTC Ranger Buddy Challenge
April 25, 2012
Two students in BVU's ROTC program recently finished third at the Annual ROTC Ranger Buddy Challenge in Lawrence, Kan. The competition included a 15K road march with 35-pound packs, eight stations of training and a 5K trail buddy run.
Spring Break Service Trips Have Impact on BVU Students
April 23, 2012
Several BVU students participated in this year's AWOL (Alternative Week of Off-site Learning) program. Four trips were offered to students this year, enabling them to volunteer their time and service to a variety of people and programs.
The Impact of Student Travel - Mysty
April 16, 2012
BVU graduate Mysty Shaver describes the impact of her first travel experience, and the difference it made on her life.
The Internship Advantage - Michael
April 16, 2012
BVU student Michael Dirks discusses his internship experiences, and the advantage that Buena Vista graduates have.
Dr. Evans on Faculty Mentors
April 16, 2012
Dr. David Evans, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty, discusses the importance of dedicated faculty and staff mentors at Buena Vista University.
BVU Students Coach Middle School Scholars in "Destination Imagination"
April 16, 2012
Dr. Karin Strohmyer, assistant professor of education/special education, recently led a group of middle school students in preparation for Destination Imagination, a non-profit organization that provides educational programs for students.
Recycling Week Contest Encourages Trash Talk
April 13, 2012
Ready, set, recycle! The BVU Sustainability Task Force and Residence Life are co-sponsoring a Recycling Week contest through April 23. The contest coincides with the group's mission to create a more sustainable environment.
Renovations to Pierce and White Halls
April 12, 2012
Work continues on the multi-million dollar major renovation of Pierce/White residence halls. The project includes upgraded lighting, new furniture, new lounge space to bring in more outside light, new multipurpose space, an elevator and new entrance.
BVU Theatre to Present "Doubt, a Parable"
April 12, 2012
Buena Vista University Theatre will present "Doubt, a Parable" by John Patrick Shanley on April 25-28. The play has won several awards, including the 2005 Tony Award for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize for Best Drama.
Eighth Annual Scholars Day To Be Held April 30
April 10, 2012
BVU's eighth annual Scholars Day will be held on Monday, April 30. The day provides students from all disciplines the opportunity to present original research and other academic work in an interactive and intellectually engaging environment.
Students Host "Barefoot Walk" to Raise Funds for Shoes for Needy Kids
April 10, 2012
BVU students hosted a barefoot walk event in support of a national project to provide shoes for needy children. The event was the first time Buena Vista students were involved with "One Day Without Shoes."
Recognition Dinner to Honor Student Accomplishment
April 10, 2012
Buena Vista University will hold its annual Student Recognition Dinner on Saturday, April 28. The event will honor over two hundred students for outstanding accomplishments in both academics and leadership.
Dr. Ken Schweller: Of Apes and Apps
April 09, 2012
Dr. Ken Schweller's graduate school experiments with how people understand language led him to explore the boundaries of apes' ability to comprehend human speech, with the Great Ape Trust in Des Moines.
Helen Blunt, 105-Year-Old BV Grad
April 06, 2012
Having lived more than a century, Buena Vista grad Helen Blunt has witnessed history, both of the nation and her alma mater. Listen to her interview with BVU student Grace Bodey, courtesy of The Tack.
Grigsby Reminisces About His BVU Career
April 06, 2012
Prof. Lanny Grigsby has been at Buena Vista for over fifty years, and is now teaching his grandson, Ian. Listen to his interview with BVU student Kyle Ahrendsen, courtesy of The Tack.
Students to Host "Barefoot Walk" to Raise Funds for Shoes for Needy Kids
April 06, 2012
BVU students are hosting a barefoot walk event on April 10 in support of a national project to provide shoes for needy children. This will be the first time BVU has been involved with "One Day Without Shoes."
BVU's 99th Buenafication Day Scheduled for April 24
April 04, 2012
BVU will hold its 99th Buenafication Day on April 24. For this annual day of service and fun, classes are canceled and students, faculty and staff volunteer their time for service to campus and community.
BVU Digital Media, Theatre Students Collaborate to Create Special "Pop Chef" Webisode
April 04, 2012
Colorful, custom-made puppets, captivating scenarios and a year of teamwork by BVU students culminated in the creation of "Pop Chef: Mix in Imagination with the POPits," a special webisode which will make its premiere on April 27.
"Beavers Annual Great Boat Float Challenge" Set for April 24 at Scout Park
April 04, 2012
BVU will host its fourth "Beavers’ Annual Great Boat Float Challenge" on April 24. This contest allows students, faculty and staff the chance put homemade cardboard boats to the test as they attempt to paddle their way to victory.
Van Zante Wins BVU Study Abroad Photo Contest
April 02, 2012
Katie Van Zante is the winner of the Buena Vista University 2011 Study Abroad Photo Contest. Her entry, "Morning Star Children at the daily afternoon assembly," was captured during her spring 2011 semester in Accra, Ghana.
BVU Hosts 12th Annual Cultural Leadership Event
April 02, 2012
BVU will host its twelfth annual Cultural Leadership Conference April 12-15. Over 40 students from across the Midwest and beyond will attend this year’s event, where they will attend classes and enjoy campus entertainment.
Social Justice Activist Mandy Carter to Speak at BVU
April 02, 2012
Mandy Carter, an internationally known African-American lesbian social justice activist, will be on campus April 17 and 18. She will present two programs which are open to the public.
BVU Announces Summer Music Camps
April 01, 2012
Buena Vista University will be offering two music camps - one for show choir and one for all-state music - for junior high and high school students this summer, according to Dr. Paula Keeler, assistant professor of music.
BVU Students Coordinate April 22 Fiesta Latina Event
March 30, 2012
The annual celebration of Latino heritage, "Fiesta Latina," will be held at Chautauqua Park on April 22 from 1-6 p.m. The event — which is free and open to the public will feature games, food, music and activities for all ages.
"Waste Audit" Kicks Off BVU Recycling Effort
March 30, 2012
The Buena Vista University Sustainability Task Force held a "waste audit" at the Estelle Siebens Science Center on March 27. The event kicked off the beginning of BVU's full-campus recycling program which will start after spring break.
Students Gain Media Knowledge in the Big Apple
March 29, 2012
Four Buena Vista University students recently earned the opportunity to accompany the digital media faculty to the College Media Association convention in New York City.
BVU Students Get a Lesson in Advocacy For the Arts
March 29, 2012
Seven BVU students took their passion for the arts to the State Capitol for Iowa Cultural Advocacy Day. Dr. Bethany Larson, associate professor of theatre, accompanied the students, a mixture of arts management majors and music production majors.
Students Serve on Panel at Pop Culture Conference
March 26, 2012
Four BVU students attended the Far West Popular Culture Association Conference in Las Vegas in February, where they presented their research papers in the panel "A Prime Time for Love: Portrayals of Sex, Love and Romance on Four popular Television Shows."
Former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark to Lecture at BVU
March 26, 2012
Ramsey Clark, who was the U.S. Attorney General in 1967-69 under President Lyndon Johnson and is an outspoken advocate for the protection of civil liberties, will be at BVU on April 11 for an evening program that is open to the public.
BVU on President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll
March 19, 2012
For the fifth year since 2006, BVU has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, in recognition of the institution's commitment to volunteering in communities near and far.
BVU Art Event for High School Students Attracts Entrants from Four States
March 19, 2012
Fifty-five high school students participated in the second annual Western Iowa Salon Exhibition at Buena Vista University in March. High school students from Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota and Nebraska submitted artistic works.
SCATE Students Lead BVU Science Day Event with Boy Scouts
March 15, 2012
Storm Lake's Boy Scout Troop enjoyed an evening with Students Concerned About Tomorrow's Environment (SCATE) members in the Estelle Siebens Science Center while recycling plastic water bottles into bird feeders.
Professor, Student Grow as Biomedical Researchers
March 15, 2012
A BVU biology professor and one of her students were selected to participate in a program at the University of Iowa last summer that promotes undergraduate scientific education and research in colleges that do not offer doctoral programs.
Doug Clausen: Exceptional Success
March 15, 2012
Doug Clausen, president and CEO of VT Industries, Inc. has helped develop the company into a leading manufacturer of laminate countertops, architectural wood doors and stone surfaces for residential and commercial buildings.
Killpack Receives National Honor for Volunteer Service
March 14, 2012
John Killpack, a junior biology major from Logan, has been named a Newman Civic Fellow in recognition of his exemplary volunteer service. He is one of 160 students nationally who were selected for the honor by the service organization Campus Compact.
Faculty: The Driving Force Behind Academic Excellence
March 14, 2012
Buena Vista University is a leading example of small, independent schools where faculty are not only teachers and scholars, but also students' advisors, mentors, research colleagues, and, in many cases, friends.
"All the World’s a Stage" for BVU Theatre Professor
March 13, 2012
Academic travel and study abroad have been the most stimulating and valuable learning experiences for Dr. Bethany Larson, associate professor of theatre, in her development as both a teacher and a performing artist.
Professor's Connections Lead to Student Internships in China
March 12, 2012
Many BVU faculty members stay connected with former academic colleagues. These relationships can lead to professional development opportunities, as well as internship and research experiences for students.
Spencer Man Follows in Footsteps of His Children to Earn a BVU Degree
March 08, 2012
The encouragement and support of parents can have a strong influence on a child's decision to earn a college degree. For Dale Streufert, it was the achievements of his children that inspired him to pursue a degree at BVU.
Balancing Her Busy 2012 Travel Itinerary
March 06, 2012
One book completed and another in progress… scholarly research and publication…
BVU Creates Sustainability Task Force
March 05, 2012
Buena Vista is doing more to reduce its impact on the environment. With the formation of a Sustainability Task Force, the university is hoping to change how those on campus live and think with regards to the world around them.
BVU Names Nationally Known Scholar as School of Education Dean
March 05, 2012
Buena Vista University has announced that Dr. Paul Theobald, a nationally known scholar and expert on the history of education in the United States, has been named dean of the School of Education.
Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Cady To Deliver Commencement Address at BVU
March 02, 2012
Buena Vista University has announced that Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark S. Cady will deliver the keynote address at the 2012 Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 26.
BVU Student Organization Receives Achievement Award
March 01, 2012
Student MOVE won an organization achievement award at the National Collegiate Leadership Conference Feb. 19-20. In the case study competition, Student MOVE advanced two of its case study presentations to the second round.
Endowed Faculty Chairs
March 01, 2012
Dr. David Evans, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty, discusses the roles and potential of endowed faculty chairs at Buena Vista University.
Internship Experience - Luis
March 01, 2012
Luis Ramirez talks about two internship experiences as a Buena Vista University student - one with a non-profit organization and another with the local school system.
Student Research Opportunities
March 01, 2012
Dr. Annamaria Elsden, Professor of English at BVU, discusses research and the opportunities students have to present and share their findings.
Wendy Waugaman: Leader of the Orchestra
March 01, 2012
Being a conductor of an orchestra is a kind of hybrid profession, but that's exactly how Wendy Waugaman, BVU trustee and President and CEO of American Equity Investment Life Holding Co., sees herself.
Nepal Trip Helps Students Develop Leadership Skills
February 29, 2012
Three students— Kyle Dupic, Jeff Loving and Ryan Scheetz— traveled to Nepal during BVU's January interim where they attended an outdoor school of leadership and evangelism located near the Himalayan Mountains.
Wythe Award Finalists Announced
February 28, 2012
Four BVU professors have been named finalists for the 2012 George Wythe Award for excellence in teaching. The winner will be announced at the Faculty/Staff Recognition Dinner in May.
Interim Courses Take Students Around the World
February 26, 2012
Many BVU students traveled the world during this year's January Interim - a three-week program that gives students the opportunity to take travel courses, enroll in unique classes on campus, and participate in internships.
Beavers Win Seventh Iowa Conference Tournament
February 25, 2012
The Buena Vista men's basketball team won a thrilling 54-52 victory over top-seed Coe College to capture the program’s seventh Iowa Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament Championship and an automatic berth into the NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Championships.
BVU Alum Competes for Cash on "Jeopardy"
February 24, 2012
Brooks Humphreys, a 1993 graduate of the Buena Vista University Graduate & Professional Studies Council Bluffs location, is appearing on "Jeopardy" with a chance to win big money. The teacher is a long-time fan of the quiz show.
BVU Interim Trip Takes Student to Study Wolves in Minnesota North Woods
February 24, 2012
A three-week trip to northern Minnesota in January may not be the ideal winter get-away for some people, but for Dakota Shaffer, it provided an eye-opening opportunity to learn about wolves and other predators, and wildlife ecology.
Students Prepare For 13th Year of Alternative Spring Break Program
February 22, 2012
BVU students will soon be participating in the 13th year of its service-based alternative spring break program. Since its first year, 463 students have participated and provided over 16,500 hours of volunteer service.
BVU Offers FAFSA Help
February 21, 2012
On Feb. 22, BVU will host an event on campus to help area families, including current students, in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The evening session is part of College Goal Sunday Week.
Alumni Enjoy Bacon Festival
February 18, 2012
Several BVU alumni attended the fifth annual Blue Ribbon Bacon Festival at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on Feb. 18. They had their photo taken with the festival mascot, which as you might expect, is a pig.
"Voices of Hope" to be Presented April 26 at BVU
February 15, 2012
A new play based on a book co-authored by Dr. Wind Goodfriend, associate professor of psychology, will be presented Thursday, April 26. The performance highlights issues of relationship violence, using nine true stories from a variety of former victims.
$30,000 in Academic Achievement Awards to BVU Business Students
February 14, 2012
Nine Buena Vista University business majors have been selected for the Clifford A. Rae Academic Achievement Award for the 2011 calendar year.
BVU Theatre Presents "The Long Christmas Ride Home"
February 11, 2012
BVU Theatre presented "The Long Christmas Ride Home" in February.
In the play, by American playwright Paula Vogel, past, present and future collide on a snowy Christmas Eve for a troubled family of five.
BVU Students Can Compete For Cash Prizes in Business Plan Contest
February 10, 2012
Buena Vista University students have the opportunity to earn $4,000 in cash prizes in the first annual "Beaver Business Plan" competition.
Seven BVU ROTC Cadets to Intern Overseas This Summer
February 09, 2012
Seven ROTC cadets at Buena Vista University will be spending three weeks in other countries this summer to learn about the cultures and military forces in those nations.
BVU Donates Used Dorm Furniture to Iowa Non-Profits
February 08, 2012
Buena Vista University is donating used furniture from White Hall to six non-profit organizations in Iowa. The donated items include a total of over 600 desks, beds, mattresses, and dressers.
BVU Plans Events for "Extreme Winter Festival" Feb. 10-12
February 07, 2012
Buena Vista University is planning events on campus as part of the city-wide Extreme Winter Festival to be held Feb. 10-12. Events include a broomball tournament, disc golf on the lake and a snow sculpture contest.
Students Win Awards At ICMA Annual Conference
February 07, 2012
BVU students received several awards at the Iowa College Media Association annual conference in Des Moines in early February. Student works in digital media and online content were recognized by the association.
Local Runner's BVU Interim Class Celebrates Tenth Year
February 06, 2012
Andriette Wickstrom has a passion for running - she has been competing in races for over twenty years. She takes that passion to BVU students in her January Interim class, "Running, Reading and Reflecting."
BVU Upgrades Science Equipment With $125,000 Grant
February 03, 2012
A $125,000 grant from the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust has allowed the Estelle Siebens Science Center to make equipment upgrades, including a brand new nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscope and gas chromatography-mass spectrometer.
ROTC Wins 2011 MacArthur Award
February 03, 2012
BVU's Army ROTC program is part of the department that has won one of eight MacArthur Awards for the school year 2010-2011. The award is based on achievement and its cadets' performance.
"Career Connect" Events For BVU Students Start Feb.13
February 02, 2012
BVU's Office of Career Services is offering a new program this year to help students prepare for their careers and network with employees. The first of these professional preparation events will be held in February.
Class of 2011 Fares Well After Graduation
January 24, 2012
Members of the Class of 2011 have fared well in beginning their careers in a challenging economy according to statistics from the annual survey of graduates by the Office of Career Services.
BVU Names New Dean of Business School
January 23, 2012
Buena Vista University has announced that Dr. Ashok Subramanian will be the new dean of the Harold Walter Siebens School of Business. He will start in the position on June 1.
BVU Students Intern with Minnesota Vikings on Game Days
January 17, 2012
BVU students Kelsey Reitmeier and Bailey Schafbuch participated in the Minnesota Vikings’ game day internship program this season.
Video by BVU Alum’s Students Responds to ABC News Story on Struggles of Native Americans
January 11, 2012
Students of Heather Hanson, Class of 2011, thought a recent ABC News story, “A Hidden America: Children of the Plains,” did not give an accurate depiction of the life of Native American children living on reservations.
BVU Names New VP of Student Affairs
January 09, 2012
Buena Vista University has announced that Dr. Margaret "Meg" McKeon has been selected as vice president for student affairs and dean of students. McKeon was the assistant vice president for student development at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.
BVU Professor Named Chair of Great Ape Trust Board
January 09, 2012
Dr. Ken Schweller, professor of computer science and psychology at Buena Vista University, has been elected chair of the board of directors of Great Ape Trust in Des Moines.
Experience January Interim Travel With BVU Bloggers
January 06, 2012
From Washington, D.C. to Europe and Korea, BVU students, faculty and staff are traveling the world during January interim academic trips. Catch up with their experiences on their international and domestic travels by reading their blogs.
BVU to Host Sprint Triathlon on Feb. 12
January 03, 2012
Buena Vista University students in the human performance program and their teacher, Dr. Matt Hanson, are sponsoring an indoor sprint triathlon on Sunday, Feb. 12 as one of the events planned for Storm Lake’s city-wide Extreme Winter Festival.



