Strengthening Iowa–Yamanashi Ties
UNI Hosts “Sister Cities of Marshalltown Student Exchange Program” Delegation
In July 2026, the Office of International Engagement and the International Admissions Office at UNI had the joy of welcoming middle school students participating in the Sister Cities of Marshalltown Student Exchange Program. This visit is part of the broader Iowa–Yamanashi Partner State Program, supported by the Iowa International Center and the Iowa Economic Development Authority. UNI has been proud to contribute to this partnership in diverse ways — from hosting delegations and offering cultural programming to creating meaningful engagement opportunities for international and domestic students.
A Legacy of Friendship and Cultural Exchange
The Iowa–Yamanashi partnership is the first U.S.–Japan sister‑state relationship, established in 1960 after a remarkable act of generosity known as the Iowa Hog Lift. In 1959, Iowa farmers sent 36 breeding hogs to Yamanashi Prefecture to help rebuild agriculture following devastating typhoons. This gesture sparked decades of cultural, educational, agricultural, and economic exchange between the people of Iowa and Yamanashi. Today, the relationship extends far beyond agriculture, encompassing student exchanges, professional delegations, cultural immersion programs, and community partnerships — including UNI’s ongoing involvement.
On July 29, a delegation of six students and two chaperones from Minami Alps City in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, joined six Marshalltown students and two additional chaperones for a special campus visit. In the same week, the group explored several Iowa landmarks: Grimes Farm, the Marshalltown Arts and Civic Center, Matchstick Marvels, the State Capitol, and Living History Farms. Their UNI visit stood out as one of the highlights of their time in Iowa.
A Memorable UNI Experience
Upon arriving at UNI, the students were welcomed by Ava Deitrich, Student Services Coordinator at OIE, and Missy Leuthold, Associate Director of International Admissions. The visit kicked off with a lively UNI‑themed Kahoot game — a fun and interactive way to test their Panther knowledge and get everyone energized. Afterward, two international students from the GPS Team led a fun campus tour and photo scavenger hunt, giving the group an engaging, hands‑on introduction to UNI.
During lunch, the group shared a joyful moment as they celebrated the birthday of one of the visiting students from Yamanashi — a highlight that added warmth and connection to their day on campus. Before departing, the entire delegation proudly put on UNI shirts and gathered for photos — a fun and lasting way to indelibly imprint their Panther Pride and carry a piece of UNI home with them.
Hosting these students was a privilege, and their curiosity, kindness, and excitement made the day truly memorable.
Inspiring Pathways and Lasting Connections for Future Panthers
Program Director Kristina Alman shared exciting feedback: two students - one from Yamanashi and one from Marshalltown, expressed interest in attending UNI in the future and even hoped to become roommates. Their enthusiasm reflects the lasting impact of this long‑standing partnership and the welcoming environment they experienced on campus.
Hosting these students was a privilege, and their curiosity, kindness, and excitement made the day truly memorable. UNI remains committed to supporting the Iowa–Yamanashi Partner State Program and to fostering global connections that enrich our campus, strengthen international community ties, and expand pathways for cultural exchange across borders.