Summer is here, bringing a welcome chance to slow down, recharge, and enjoy the season.

Even as many take time to rest and relax, great things continue to happen across the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, throughout campus, and around Iowa City.  

In this month's newsletter, you'll find stories of faculty and staff achievements, innovative programs, student support, and opportunities to connect with the broader community and make the most of summer.

However you spend these next couple of months, we hope you enjoy it. Thanks for all you do and for being a part of CLAS. 

Newsletter Archive

More CLAS news

Check out more CLAS stories by visiting the news section of the CLAS website.

CLAS announcements

CLAS faculty receive summer research funding

Sponsored in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President for Research, this is the college's second year supporting the Summer Funding for Humanities Research program.  

Employee updates

Please feel free to reach out to introduce yourself to new people or congratulate your colleagues on their accomplishments.

Featured achievements

CLAS mathematics professor named American Mathematical Society Fellow

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Raul Curto, professor in the Department of Mathematics in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has been named a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society, one of the highest honors in the mathematical sciences.

Staff spotlight: Shonda Monette cultivates connection across CLAS

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
After 25 years in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences—as a graduate student, faculty member, staff member, and now president of CLAS Staff Council—Shonda Monette reflects on leadership, culture, and the importance of helping people feel seen.

Spotlight CLAS

As interest in American Sign Language program grows, so do the opportunities it offers

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
With over 350 enrolled students in ASL courses each semester, the program is the largest it has ever been. This is creating new opportunities for students to immerse themselves in Deaf culture and help address Iowa's critical need for ASL interpreters.

How CLAS’s student care manager helps students navigate crisis, connection

Tuesday, May 12, 2026
A growing number of CLAS students and faculty are turning to one role designed to help people navigate times of adversity and change.

Upcoming events

Iowa City Jazz Festival

Friday, July 3 to Saturday, July 4, 2026 5:00 p.m.– 3:00 p.m.

A Fourth of July weekend tradition, the Iowa City Jazz Festival brings three days of free live music, food, and community to downtown Iowa City, featuring acclaimed jazz artists and emerging talent from around the world.

Improving Scholarly Communication Series - Speaking for Success

Friday, July 10, 2026 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
 

Learn practical strategies for delivering clear, engaging presentations in academic and professional settings during this workshop on effective scientific and medical communication.

For more CLAS-specific events, visit the university events calendar.