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Upper Iowa University alumnus to deliver 2022 commencement address

Fayette, IA (03/14/2022) — An Upper Iowa University alumnus and UIU Board of Trustee from Hermiston, Oregon, will deliver the commencement address during the University's 2022 commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 7. Brian Sims '08, '10 graduated summa cum laude with a major in human resources management and a minor in finance, and later earned a Master of Business Administration degree, with an emphasis in organizational development, at UIU.

"I am only one of many that benefited from UIU's commitment to an education that puts one on a path to professional success," Sims said. "It is an absolute honor to be chosen to deliver the commencement address to the next group of UIU alumni who understand the UIU slogan, an 'Education Built for Life.'"

A retired Air Force veteran, Sims achieved the rank of master sergeant during his 20 years of service. A distinguished graduate of the Noncommissioned Officer Academy, he served as the Iowa director for recruiting and administered the recruitment of physicians, nurses and allied health professionals. Sims is a recipient of Air Force Career Counselor of the Year and Air Force Manager of the Year awards.

Sims currently serves as a critical access hospital chief executive officer with Good Shepherd Health Care System in Hermiston, Oregon. With over 700 employees and 80 providers, Good Shepherd meets the medical needs of its communities with services not often seen in rural facilities, including a Level III trauma center, medical/surgical, OB/GYN, critical care, rural health clinic, and hospice. Sims was previously employed at Lucas County Health Center in Chariton, Iowa, and Knoxville Hospital & Clinics in Knoxville, Iowa.

UIU's May 7 commencement ceremonies in Fayette, Iowa, will recognize students who have completed their degree requirements at all UIU locations. Graduates and undergraduates of the School of Business and Professional Studies will be joined by Second Chance graduates and undergraduates during a 10 a.m. ceremony at Harms-Eischeid Stadium. Alumni who were unable to attend their original commencement ceremony are invited to participate in the Second Chance opportunity. Meanwhile, graduates and undergraduates of the Andres School of Education and School of Arts and Sciences will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m.

In the case of inclement weather, the ceremonies will be moved inside Dorman Gymnasium. All seating is on a first-come basis. Overflow seating and video will be available in the Student Center ballrooms.

Additional UIU Commencement information will be released as the event draws near. For the most current details, visit uiu.edu/commencement.

About Upper Iowa University Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, nonprofit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 4,500 students-nationally and internationally-at its Fayette, Iowa, Campus and over 20 U.S. locations. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and self-paced degree programs. With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, UIU provides dual enrollment programs for high school students as well as continuing education and professional development opportunities for learners of any age. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.

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