 |
 |
 |
| Diana and Susan Mina |
Two University of Iowa parents were the center of attention before the Nov. 6 Hawkeye football game, when they were honored as Iowa’s Mom and Dad of the Year.
Mom of the Year is Susan Mina of Davenport, Iowa, whose daughter, Diana Mina, a first-year student majoring in psychology, nominated her. Susan Mina emigrated to the United States from Iran and received a pharmacy degree from The University of Iowa. Her ability to overcome language barriers has made her a role model and source of inspiration to her children.
 |
| Brittney and Jeannine Robinson |
Dad of the Year is Michael Robinson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who was nominated by his daughter, Brittney Robinson, a first year pre-pharmacy major. A father to four adopted children and a foster parent for 15 years, he was active in the Big Brother Big Sister program and in his tools sales career. The Dad of the Year award was given to Michael Robinson as he was in his last days of a courageous struggle with Huntington’s disease; his wife, Jeannine Robinson, accepted the award on his behalf.
The Mom of the Year honoree is selected by Mortar Board, a national honor society that recognizes college seniors. The Dad of the Year honoree is selected by Omicron Delta Kappa, the national leadership honor society for upper-level students. The Parents Association also supports the awards program.
All UI students can nominate their parents for the annual awards, which have been an Iowa tradition for more than 50 years. The application includes a list of the parent’s occupational achievements, community activities, volunteer work, and personal accomplishments and honors. In addition, students write essays describing their parents’ personal characteristics, what they’ve done for the students or others, and why their parents should represent all Iowa parents.
