As the University of Iowa class of 2026 prepares to graduate, we'd like to recognize the outstanding faculty and staff who have played key roles in our students' success.
This year, graduating students identified more than 1,000 faculty and staff members who made a positive difference in their lives during their time at the university.
“Every year, I’m struck by the dedication of our faculty and staff who continually go the extra mile for students,” says Kevin Kregel, executive vice president and provost. “Through their mentorship, support, and commitment, they empower students to grow with confidence and step forward as capable, engaged leaders.”
Faculty and staff were identified through the UI Senior Exit Survey, which all undergraduates are invited to complete when they apply to graduate. Those mentioned by five or more students are listed in bold.
Faculty and Staff Recognized by the Class of 2026
For every name on this list, there is a student who can recall the positive impact that person had on their experience at Iowa.
“Faculty and staff are essential partners in advancing student success across the university,” says Tanya Uden-Holman, associate provost for undergraduate education and dean of the University College. “Those recognized here played a crucial role in helping students develop the skills to excel academically while also helping them gain confidence, discover direction, and prepare for their next steps.”
To celebrate these exceptional members of the UI community, we have provided a snapshot of five faculty members from the list and comments from some of their students. These educators reflect the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning and exemplify the dedication and passion that shape our students’ futures.
Phillip Deierling
Inspired by his time as an engineer, Phillip Deierling helps his students connect technical concepts to real-world applications. Since completing his PhD and joining the UI in 2018, Deierling has continually guided students in developing into thoughtful, adaptable engineers.
Drawing on industry experience, he is known for helping students understand not just how to solve problems, but when and why to apply specific tools. In the classroom, he fosters a supportive, student-centered environment where individuals feel seen and encouraged, blending practical examples with personal insight to build both competence and confidence.
“Professor Deierling is an exceptional teacher and mentor. His advice to students comes from his wealth of knowledge and career experience, which has helped me tremendously not only with my courses, but also with my outlook on and personal experience with the engineering field.”
- Minh Thai, mechanical engineering major from Saigon, Vietnam
Donika Kelly
Inspired by the integrity and dedication of her own undergraduate and graduate mentors, Donika Kelly pursued a career in education with the goal of upholding those same values. A renowned poet, she joined the University of Iowa in 2020, drawn by the strength of Iowa’s English and Creative Writing curriculum and its commitment to both literature and creative work.
In the classroom, she is known for encouraging students to slow down, deepen their attention, and engage with writing as a meaningful, ongoing practice beyond academic assignments. Kelly places strong emphasis on helping students build sustainable writing habits that extend into their lives outside the university.
“Dr. Kelly’s mentorship made me a better poet and human. She shattered previous notions I had about who can be a writer… [and] fostered a foundation for my writing life that I am excited to carry beyond graduation.”
- Madeline Riske, English and creative writing major from Downers Grove, IL
Mike MacCourt
Mike MacCourt draws on over 20 years of experience in corporate finance and consulting, including time as a CFO, to teach finance. Inspired by a family legacy of teaching, he discovered his own passion for education while serving as an adjunct professor during a sabbatical in 2022. His journey led him the following year to UI, where he combines his professional expertise with a commitment to helping students succeed in their careers.
In the classroom, MacCourt creates an interactive, collaborative environment where students engage with real-world case studies, develop critical thinking and communication skills, and gain professional development insights.
“Professor MacCourt is a supportive and engaging professor who genuinely cares about his students’ success… I will always appreciate the impact he had on me and how he helped prepare me for my future career in finance.”
- Taylor Wos, double major in finance and risk management and insurance from New Lenox, IL
Megan Ronnenberg
Megan Ronnenberg began teaching social work at the University of Iowa as a visiting instructor in 2024 and joined the faculty as an assistant professor the following year. Inspired by the passion for social work that she developed as a student, Ronnenberg pursued a path in academia to share the knowledge she had gained with others.
In the classroom, she is known for creating a supportive, welcoming environment where students feel safe to challenge themselves, engage with complex topics, and learn from perspectives that may be different from their own. Her impact extends beyond the classroom through mentorship and supporting student research and professional development.
“Dr. Ronnenberg has a natural affinity for helping others. She is always willing to provide letters of recommendation, references, and scholarship application support. Her knowledge and expertise has greatly assisted me in reaching my goals.”
- Nick Grober, social work major from Readlyn, IA
Michaela Ruppert
Since joining UI as a faculty member in 2014, Michaela Ruppert has developed a passion for teaching shaped by strong mentorship and commitment to student growth. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is connecting with first-year students, helping them to discover their potential and uncover new interests.
In her classroom, Ruppert models professionalism, curiosity, and respect, while challenging her students to take ownership of their learning. Her goal is for students to leave with greater confidence, independence, and a clear sense of how they can contribute meaningfully in their personal and professional lives.
“Michaela is extremely dedicated to helping students fully immerse themselves in their coursework by providing an engaging and welcoming class experience. She has truly shaped my academic experience at Iowa in a positive manner and helped prepare me to enter the workforce with confidence.”
- Matthew Lombardo, criminology major from Frankfort, IL