Unity and Understanding Center

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Student Success and Academic Support
Unity and Understanding Center

A Welcoming Space to Study & Connect

The Unity and Understanding Center is home to Student Success Services and the Office of Student Connection and Experience. The center has study spaces, a lounge, a conference room for student groups, and connections to other campus offices and community resources.

Inside the Unity & Understanding Center

Lounge & Study Areas

Providing a safe and welcoming space for students to study and connect with peers, faculty, and staff.

Private Offices

Spaces for confidential conversations with advisors.

Small Conference Room

A space for student organizations to host study groups and formal meetings; and faculty to facilitate their office hours as needed.

Shared Cubicles

A place for community partners and Hawkeye staff to assist students with academic, financial, educational, and personal needs.

Student Connection and Experience

College is more than classes and credits; it’s about building community, overcoming challenges, and discovering who you are and what you stand for. The Office of Student Connection and Experience is here to help you navigate that journey. Whether you need support, want to get involved, or just need someone to point you in the right direction, we’re here for you.

Located in the Unity and Understanding Center, our reach goes far beyond our office walls. Through advocacy, community partnerships, and student-focused initiatives, our office helps create a campus culture where all students feel seen, supported, and equipped to thrive.

At Hawkeye, we believe that connection is key to student success. The Office of Student Connection and Experience serves as a bridge between students and the resources they need: academic, emotional, social, and beyond.

Campus departments (Student Services, Counseling, Financial Aid, etc.)
Local nonprofits, service providers, and community resources
Emergency and crisis assistance (food, housing, transportation, etc.)
Student-led programming and leadership opportunities (Multicultural Student Organization, etc.)

We foster a student-centered campus climate by:

Promoting a welcoming campus environment where every student feels valued and respected
Coordinating efforts to support student success
Advocating for student needs across departments
Facilitating conversations that center student experience and access

The Office of Student Connection and Experience coordinates civic engagement events, leadership development opportunities, and co-curricular service-learning activities, including:

Care Kit Drives and Community Outreach Projects
Student-Led Forums and Campus Dialogues on various impactful topics
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Awareness Days and History Month Observances
Taste and Tradition Events

Visit us. Reach out. Get connected.