Generations of Hawkeyes Return to Iowa City for Grandparents University

PHOTOS: John Emigh Grandparents University attendees take part in a program July 16 hosted by IIHR—Hydroscience and Engineering in which they designed their own watershed systems and learned how different materials can be used to reduce flood impact and agricultural runoff.

Hawkeye grandparents and their grandchildren spent a day on campus this summer for Grandparents University. The annual event welcomed families as far away as Switzerland for a day of intergenerational learning at the University of Iowa.

Across campus, Iowa professors, researchers, and community members introduced participants to new ideas, deepened their understanding of familiar concepts, and made learning fun for all ages.

At “Bracelet Buddies,” led by doctoral student Agnes Harry Mills (22MA, 24MFA) at the Stanley Museum of Art, attendees created personalized bracelets using colorful glass beads, woven yarn, and a variety of beading and knotting techniques.

Participants in “Hydroscience and Engineering,” led by Iowa Flood Center program manager Breanna Shea (20MA) at the Hydraulics Wind Tunnel Annex, learned about flooding and water-quality challenges in Iowa. They designed their own watershed systems and experimented with materials to reduce the effects of flooding and agricultural runoff.

At the Old Capitol Museum, attendees explored the importance of preserving history, discussed what makes an object or memory worth saving, learned about time capsules throughout history, and created their own.

Observatory manager and lab specialist Andi Swirbul led “Secrets of the Sun: Solar Viewing, Space Weather, and Iowa’s Legacy,” at Van Allen Hall, where participants discovered how the sun shapes life and light on Earth. They observed the sun through solar telescopes, learned about sunspots and solar storms, and explored how space weather creates auroras.

At Hancher Auditorium, attendees went behind the curtain for an interactive tour. They learned firsthand how stage productions work, including theatre protocols and operating equipment.

In another performing arts session, participants activated their imaginations through improv and theatre games. Working in small groups, they created and presented short plays.

Many ended the day at the UI Athletics Hall of Fame, where they toured exhibitions, explored collections, and relived unforgettable Hawkeye moments.