The University of Iowa is launching a new way to promote and recognize outstanding student achievement on campus.

Merit, the flagship software created by readMedia in New York, allows schools to create digital badges for students who receive prominent awards throughout their scholastic careers (Dean’s List, President’s List, etc.). Students who receive a badge will be able to customize a personal webpage that serves as an online portfolio of collegiate achievements.

Students have the ability to share achievements granted by the UI through Merit on social media channels like Facebook and Twitter. Students also can add their own activities, like work experience, intramural participation, leadership positions, and more.

“We’re excited to have a new way to honor student success on our campus,” says Lin Larson, director of creative services for University Communication and Marketing. “What we hope is that students see their Merit pages as a kind of online resume to share with friends, family, and future employers. This is an organized way for students to put all their UI awards and activities in one place.”

Merit also provides a hometown news service for students through readMedia, allowing local news outlets across the country a chance to receive updates about students at the UI from their areas.

“We have great student success stories happening on campus every day,” Larson says. “From academic awards to involvement with local organizations or charities, we want to make sure people know what our students are accomplishing.”

Students who receive a Merit achievement will be notified via e-mail and will then have the chance to claim their Merit pages. Once students claim their page, they can add photos, other activities, and share their page through social media.

To view the UI Merit page, click here. For more information on readMedia and Merit, click here.