What's Remarkable?

The University of Iowa claims some truly remarkable features, from programs like the pioneering Iowa Writers' Workshop to people like the late James Van Allen whose achievements bring Iowa international notice. But when we use the word "remarkable" in this campaign and when we challenge individuals to "Be remarkable," what do we mean?

What's remarkable is open to interpretation, but one goal of the Be remarkable campaign is to tout people and programs that, like the examples above, meet just about any standard that defines the word.

We want to promote our University's accomplishments more broadly and consistently among the audiences that matter most to us—prospective students and their families, state and federal policymakers, alumni and donors all over the world, and faculty, staff, and students right here on campus.

All these groups need to know what makes The University of Iowa stand out, and as communicators, we need to be ready and willing to brag a bit. Iowa's accomplishments are even more impressive considering that we're the smallest public university in the Big Ten, in a state with fewer than three million people. We shine even when compared to schools with far more resources.

The fact that "remarkable" means different things to different people is one of this campaign's strengths. A second goal of the campaign is to convey the message the each of us can be remarkable, and that The University of Iowa provides a setting where we can reach our potential.

The aspirational quality of the Be remarkable message encourages students to reach higher, think beyond the ordinary, and pursue opportunities that take them further than they might have thought possible. For faculty and staff, the message emphasizes the fact that in our work and interactions, we have a chance to exceed expectations.

For the campus as a whole—and for Iowa's alumni and friends—Be remarkable reminds us that we each have a role in the University's future and that, in turn, this extraordinary institution helps shape who we become.