Panther Access, Connection and Engagement Program

The Panther Access, Connection and Engagement (PACE) program is a transition and support opportunity for incoming University of Northern Iowa undergraduate students.

PACE was established as UNI’s alternative to the federally funded TRIO/Student Support Services program. The mission of the PACE program is to:

Assist students in their transition to college and to build a foundation for success
Establish a sense of belonging on campus along with a community of learners
Help students find connection points throughout campus
Promote student empowerment and a growth mindset

If you have been a participant in a federally funded TRIO program (Upward Bound, Educational Opportunity Centers, Educational Talent Search, and GEAR UP) and college-level Student Support Services programs, click here.

Submit your PACE Program RSVP!

Who should RSVP for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 Semesters?

To participate in the PACE program, an individual must be admitted to UNI as an undergraduate student either as a new from high school or transfer student. All students must complete the PACE program RSVP to be considered for participation.

The PACE Program RSVP requests:

Basic demographic information
Types of assistance students would like to receive
Responses to the following short-answer questions:
- What interests you about the PACE program?
- How do you think the PACE program can contribute to your success at UNI?

The deadline for fall semester participation is the first Friday of the semester. Late applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis or referred to other campus resources. Likewise, the deadline for spring semester participation will be the first Friday of the spring semester.

Incoming students are identified for PACE program invitations based upon a combination of the following factors:

Pell Grant-eligibility
First-generation status
Previous TRIO participant
Students of Color
Jump Start participant
Other academic-success factors
UNI students referred by faculty or staff

If you are unable to access the PACE RSVP, have questions, or want additional information about the PACE program, contact Nick Sullivan at 319-273-3406 or nick.sullivan@uni.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for selection of PACE participants?

All students who complete the PACE RSVP will be offered services. Typically, participation will begin at the start of the semester after the RSVP is submitted.

Does the PACE program accept students after the semester begins?

RSVPs from first-semester students will be reviewed and qualified students may be admitted (if space is available) into the PACE program through the first full week of classes during the fall and spring semesters.

I have been admitted to UNI for the spring semester. Am I eligible to join the PACE program?

Yes! We do accept new, first-semester UNI students into the PACE program for the spring semester.

How will students benefit from participation in this program?

Building a sense of belonging through connections with other UNI students, faculty, and staff
Holistic academic advising experience
Opportunity to enroll in PACE-specific section of UNIV 1055: Strategies for Academic Success (fall semester only)
Access to individual and group financial literacy sessions (focused on budgeting, money management, credit and financial aid)
Interactive workshops on a variety of topics, including career exploration, student wellness, and graduate school
A transition opportunity for individuals who previously participated in pre-college and college-level TRIO programs
Welcoming study space located in ITTC 008

Is there a cost of participating in the PACE program?

There is no cost to participate.

How much time will be required for a participant in the PACE program?

Active participation is expected. There will be a limited number of required activities. However, the PACE Program will offer a variety of individual and group activities. To get the full benefits of participating in PACE, we encourage you to take advantage of all the program has to offer.

What are the expectations for students who participate in this program?

Attend a group or individual PACE orientation session (early in the semester of starting the program)
Complete a pre-enrollment survey and a needs assessment
Individual meetings with PACE success team members throughout the semester
Complete early and mid-semester academic check-ins
Attend identified group activities addressing:
- Financial literacy
- Academic and career planning
- Semester course planning and registration

How long will PACE participation continue?

PACE participation is planned for a student’s first two years at UNI. However, in consultation with the PACE success team, a student may continue to participate beyond the second year.

What resources are available for students who do not participate in the PACE program?

UNI offers a variety of services for students. If you need assistance exploring and getting connected with campus resources, you can work with an Office of Academic Advising Peer Advisor or your assigned academic advisor.

Please contact Nick Sullivan at nick.sullivan@uni.edu or 319-273-3406 with any additional questions.