Proposals must be received by July 1, 2016 Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey encourages Iowa artists to submit proposals to paint a mural highlighting conservation and water quality efforts in Iowa during the Iowa State Fair this year.

Recognition for outstanding academic achievement has been given to Grand View University student Nicole Thys, who was named to the 2016 spring semester President's List.

Central College student Caitlyn Conway of Blairstown has been elected for 2016-17 Student Senate. Founded in 1853, Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private, residential four-year liberal arts college known for its academic rigor and strength in global experiential learning, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), sustainability education, athletics success and tradition, and leadership and service.

Brian Voss of Atkins, IA has been honored by the Iowa State University Educator Preparation Program for achieving the rank of a professional educator.

Brian Voss of Atkins, IA has been honored by the Iowa State University Educator Preparation Program for achieving the rank of a professional educator. Voss, who studied , was one of 191 Iowa State University graduates who were bestowed with academic cords of light blue, the traditional color worn by those in the field of education receiving bachelor's degrees, in a ceremony on Friday, May 6, 2016 in Stephen's Auditorium in Ames.

Central College student Caitlyn Conway of Blairstown has been elected for 2016-17 Student Senate. Founded in 1853, Central College of Pella, Iowa, is a private, residential four-year liberal arts college known for its academic rigor and strength in global experiential learning, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), sustainability education, athletics success and tradition, and leadership and service.

The University of Dubuque held its 164th Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday, May 14, in the Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center as well as Heritage Center's John and Alice Butler Hall on the UD campus.

The University of Dubuque held its 164th Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday, May 14, in the Chlapaty Recreation and Wellness Center as well as Heritage Center's John and Alice Butler Hall on the UD campus.

Creighton University conferred more than 1,700 degrees during its two 2016 Commencement ceremonies on May 14. Area graduates include Jacqueline Hilmer of Walker and Mary Aubrey of Urbana.

By: Naval Service Training Command Public Affairs Atkins, Iowa native and Iowa State University Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipman McKinley Spalding is participating in annual training this summer.