UNI's New Vice President for Student Affairs 'Loves the Purple!'

“I am loving the purple! The people at UNI truly believe in the mission of student success and it is contagious,” said Paula Knudson, UNI's new vice president of Student Affairs. “I have loved the energy and am very excited to become a member of such a grounded and developmental organization.”

Knudson, an Iowa native, joined the University of Northern Iowa family in June and already has high expectations for student involvement on and off campus.

“I think the future is bright! I watch the new students enter the university and it gives me a sense of optimism. I trust that they will have a positive academic engagement with a welcoming faculty and am optimistic that they will engage in the plethora of activity that is offered them outside of the classroom. This really is a partnership that is designed to not only educate and graduate students but also build solid global citizens of tomorrow. Student Affairs often plays such a behind-the-scenes, yet pivotal, role in this development.”

Before coming to UNI, Knudson served as the vice chancellor and dean of students at the University of Wisconsin—La Crosse. Her strong emphasis on both the theoretical and practical elements of student development will no doubt be a positive impact on the UNI community.

“My vision is to create a division that is a vital campus partner that develops student success in a supportive, healthy and fun environment for all,” said Knudson. “I am privileged to work in a profession that routinely puts students at the forefront—I love this!”

Paula Knudson Fun Fact!

Every morning, Knudson gets up and walks the campus area to better understand the campus and environment. “It is indeed a beautiful campus and a tad more beautiful in July than January when I first explored it.”