Forever Family

Being a Forever Family may mean having a long family history of alumni or it may mean a new connection to the University. Either way, one thing remains the same: an endless support for all things Purple and Gold and living out this commitment on a daily basis.

Check back for submission opening for next years nominations!

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2026 Forever Family

The Johnson family, Jama, Phillip, Ellyana and Marble are named the UNI’s Alumni & Foundation Forever Family of the Year, representing nearly 150 years of Panther tradition. Their connection to UNI began in 1878, when the first member of the family attended what was then the Iowa State Normal School, and has continued through five generations.

More than a legacy of UNI graduates, the Johnson family has made the university part of their shared family story, passing down traditions, memories and a lasting Panther connection from one generation to the next. As we celebrated 150 years of UNI, this family reminds us that our history isn't just found in buildings, archives or old photographs, Our history lives in our people.

2025 Forever Family

Alex Oswald and the Peiffer Family have a long history with the University of Northern Iowa, beginning in 1980. For more than 20 consecutive years, at least one member of the Peiffer family has been enrolled at the university each year. In addition to receiving a quality education, six cousins also met their future spouses while attending the university.Including spouses, 28 members of the family have graduated from UNI over the past 40 years. A couple of the cousins loved UNI so much that they built careers there and now work for the university.

The Peiffer Family holding the Forever Family award.

During their time at UNI, family members participated in numerous clubs and activities, and many also held campus jobs. Over the decades, they have lived in nearly every residence hall, including Campbell and Bartlett. The Peiffer family is undeniably a Panther family. Family gatherings are filled with purple and gold, and conversations almost always turn toward UNI memories, traditions, or athletics. UNI has had a tremendous impact on the family, and their Panther pride runs deep.

2024 Forever Family

The University of Northern Iowa celebrated the Lemons and Waggoner family from Bettendorf as the 2024 Forever Family during its annual Family Weekend, held Oct. 4-6. Spanning three generations, the family was recognized at the weekend’s welcome event and honored during the UNI football game on Saturday.

Emily Waggoner, a senior history major at UNI, proudly carries on her family’s 50-year legacy at the university. It began with her grandfather, Jerry Lemons, who graduated in 1972. Jerry and his wife lived in student housing while attending UNI, and their daughter Brenda followed in their footsteps, earning her degree in 1994. It was at a campus party that Brenda met her future husband Andrew Waggoner, a 1992 alum. Their daughter Emily is the latest in the family’s long line of Panthers.

“Even though the campus has changed over the years, our connection and loyalty to UNI have always stayed strong,” said Emily. “I am incredibly grateful to be part of this tradition.”

Brenda’s siblings, Bill and Lisa, are also part of the UNI family, graduating in 1995 and 1997, respectively.

The Lemons and Waggoner families are known for their dedication to the UNI community. From their home decor to their vehicles, they proudly display their Panther pride, regularly attending Homecoming and making tailgating a family tradition. Emily continues this tradition, wearing her purple and gold wherever she goes, especially on out-of-state trips. UNI is a must-visit campus when it comes time for a family member to choose a college.

2023 Forever Family #2: Hakes Family

The Hakes family with UNI President Mark Nook

Info from submission: My family has always supported me and the decisions I’ve made so when I told them I wanted to go to UNI they were completely on board. My family wants to be there for every cool thing that happens and they love campus even if they haven’t walked the same paths as I’m the first in my family to go away for school and attend a four year university. My family constantly tells me that I am doing great and that I picked an amazing place to fulfill the career I have always wanted to do! My family is fully committed to UNI and to being amazing Panther parents! And siblings of course!

2023 Forever Family #1: The Fowler Family

Info from submission: UNI has been a large part of my life and my families for the last 50+ years. Panther Pride is a large part of my family's identity and UNI brought my family together. It started when my grandma, Sandy, came to UNI when it was called State College of Iowa to become a teacher. My grandma enjoyed her time in Cedar Falls living in Bartlett Hall when it was a dormitory. While at college, she was set up on a blind date with her roommate's brother returning home from the U.S. Army. They met at the Commons for the first time and as they say, the rest is history! They got married and had two kids. Years later my mom came to UNI to study business and in her junior year was a suitemate in the newly opened R.O.T.H with David, a new transfer student who had started his after high school life serving in the U.S. Navy.

Fowler family with UNI President Mark Nook

The two of them fell in love and are my parents. My upbringing was filled with panther pride as UNI brought my grandparents and parents together. Before leaving the hospital when I was born I was decked out in Panther gear and it hasn’t stopped since. My parents get giddy when they visit UNI because they love it here and make sure to say “Go Panthers!” to those passing by in UNI gear. Throughout my childhood I was continually cheering on the Panthers and coming to Cedar Falls for games. When in Cedar Falls I heard stories of when my grandma was in college and everyone dressed up to go to the dining center. Or my parents who went bike riding on the many trails around campus. When I began looking for colleges the only one I toured and wanted to attend was the University of Northern Iowa. Purple and Gold is in my veins and I am proud to be a UNI student today and carry on the Panther tradition in my family!