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News & Research

Buena Vista University campus from above

Storm Lake, Iowa · May 2026

From the newsroom and the labs of Buena Vista University.

News & Research

There's always something interesting happening around campus. Stay up to date with the Beaver community: student life, faculty research, alumni success, athletics, and institutional updates.

Latest Stories

What's happening now.

The most recent stories from across the BVU community — gathered here for you.

BVU’s URMED Program Inspires Future Rural Iowa Doctors

BVU’s URMED Program Inspires Future Rural Iowa Doctors

Participants receive a $3,000 stipend and immersive clinical experiences as they explore careers in rural healthcare and help address Iowa's growing physician shortage.

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Marian Riner Named 2026 George Wythe Award Recipient

Marian Riner Named 2026 George Wythe Award Recipient

Professor Marian Riner honored for her lasting impact on students, innovative leadership, and commitment to Education for Service.

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Fellow Beavers share in first Boston Marathon journey

Fellow Beavers share in first Boston Marathon journey

2007 alumnus celebrates first Boston Marathon with his BVU family

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BVU Celebrates 135th Commencement, Honoring Nearly 600 Graduates

BVU Celebrates 135th Commencement, Honoring Nearly 600 Graduates

Buena Vista University celebrated its 135th Commencement Ceremony on May 9 in Siebens Fieldhouse.

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BVU Students Earn National Recognition at e-Fest Entrepreneurship Competition

BVU Students Earn National Recognition at e-Fest Entrepreneurship Competition

BVU stands as the only Iowa institution selected, earning national recognition through top finishes in innovation and market-ready business competitions

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BVU Announces 2026 Commencement Speakers

BVU Announces 2026 Commencement Speakers

Distinguished leaders Shad Robinson ’96 and Dr. Trent Grundmeyer ’03 to address undergraduate and graduate ceremonies.

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Faculty Research

Research with reach beyond Storm Lake.

BVU faculty and students publish scholarship and run applied research programs that influence classrooms, communities, and industries across Iowa and beyond.

Marian Riner Named 2026 George Wythe Award Recipient

Professor Marian Riner honored for her lasting impact on students, innovative leadership, and commitment to Education for Service.

Read the study ›

BVU Professor’s Research Supports Student Well-Being in High-Needs Schools

A pilot study by Buena Vista University’s Dr. Renee Fensom shows that school-based intervention can boost resilience, reduce stress, and support mental health among diverse student populations.

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Finalists named for BVU’s 2026 George Wythe Award

The recipient of the award, which was endowed by the late Paul and Vivian McCorkle, receives a sabbatical and a $30,000 stipend for faculty development.

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Awards & Recognition

Honors earned this year.

A snapshot of the awards, finalist honors, and external recognition earned by BVU students, faculty, and staff in 2025–26.

Faculty · Feb 2026

2026 George Wythe Award Finalists

Award recipient receives a sabbatical and a $30,000 faculty development stipend.

Students · Apr 2026

e-Fest Entrepreneurship Competition

BVU — the only Iowa institution selected — recognized in innovation and market-ready business categories.

Staff · Apr 2026

Education for Service 2026 Nominees

Twenty-ninth recipient of this staff award to be honored at the Employee Recognition Celebration.

Alumni · Mar 2026

Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year

Nigel Horton '10 named the state's top elementary principal.

Students · Apr 2026

National & Statewide Entrepreneurship

BVU student teams advanced to prestigious competitions, strengthening the university's reputation for innovation.

Students · Feb 2026

27 ICMA Media Honors

Including the First Amendment Award and Overall Audio Excellence recognition.

BVU Magazine

The full story — twice a year, in print.

The Buena Vista University Alumni Magazine is the official publication for the Beaver community, with long-form features, alumni profiles, class notes, and faculty research deep dives. Sign up for the newsletter to get the highlights between issues.