The University of Iowa is one of three recipients recognized by the Iowa Architectural Foundation (IAF) for embracing architectural excellence to advance its community over the past 30 years.

The foundation’s Community Enhancement Through Architecture & Design in Iowa program recognizes individuals, organizations, agencies, or communities outside the architectural profession who have had a significant, sustained, and positive impact on the quality of life in Iowa through their support of architecture and/or urban design.

According to the foundation, the UI “has consistently built world class buildings throughout campus, which have been an inspiration to current students, their parents, alumni, and professional and amateur architecture enthusiasts.The University has preserved and enhanced the unique identity of the campus, known for its artistic integrity and intellectual inspiration, by engaging such renowned architects as Frank Gehry, Charles Gwathmey, Gunnar Birkets, Steven Holl, Cesar Pelli, and Siah Armajani.This is especially remarkable, as in 2008, flood waters destroyed 23 treasured buildings on the University of Iowa's campus. In the years following, the University used this tragedy as an opportunity to complete a campus-wide comeback, with the grand opening of the new Hancher Auditorium, Voxman Music Building, the new Visual Arts building, and more.”

“It takes more than just architects and design professionals to make Iowa communities great places in which to live, work, and play,” Claudia Cackler, executive director of the IAF and a UI alumna, says in a press release. “It also takes the vision, commitment, and resources of those members of our communities who share a common goal.  We feel it is important to recognize those entities who embrace architectural excellence to advance their communities.”

The UI will receive its award at the Encore IAF30 Gala on June 15 in Des Moines, Iowa.

The IAF is a charitable organization founded in 1989 to promote the awareness and appreciation of architecture and design. The IAF pursues its mission through youth and adult educational/outreach programs, community design charrettes, architectural walking tours, an annual lecture series, and more.