Trash into Treasure: ISU Researchers Developing Polymers to Extract Rare Earth Elements From Waste

The old saying of "one man's trash is another man's treasure" may prove true when it comes to finding more of the rare earth elements in much of the technology we use each day thanks to Idaho State University scientists.

An Idaho State University Alum who recently served as a NASA Science Officer for this year’s Artemis II Mission is returning to campus during Homecoming Week, and you’re invited to hear about her experience. 

Angela Garcia, planetary geologist at NASA Johnson Space Center, will present “Angela Talks Artemis: Training Astronauts, Testing Spacesuits, and Supporting Moon Missions,” on Friday, October 9, from 3 to 4 p.m. in Physical Science Complex Room 108 on ISU’s Pocatello campus. 

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Nearly 30 geosciences students recently spent five days in the eastern Uinta Mountains. Led by faculty members Kurt Sundell and Dave Pearson, the group explored the area's geology, challenging students both academically and in their field logistics skills.

66th Annual United Way Workforce Campaign Launch

The 66th Annual ISU United Way Campaign runs now through mid-November. Join the ISU United Way Campaign committee for a free kick-off breakfast at each campus location, where you can sign up for payroll deduction, with proceeds going to the United Way in each region.

Idaho Falls: Mon., October 5

8:30 a.m.

BSUB Lounge

Pocatello: Tues., October 6

8:30 a.m.

Wood River Room

Meridian: Tues., October 6

7:45 a.m.

Main Hall

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ISU MRCF Student Microscopy Competition

The ISU MRCF Student Microscopy Competition is a friendly competition designed to stimulate interest in the microscopic world and offer bragging rights to those who are a part of it. ISU students who have an interest in microscopic environments are encouraged to participate as either part of a research lab, or simply as hobby microscopists.

The winner will receive a certificate of achievement and the image will be put on display at the MRCF. 

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ESports Arena Unveiled Through Contributions from Direct Communications

Idaho State University unveiled its new state-of-the-art Esports Arena Tuesday, September 29. The new arena serves as the hub for ISU’s growing esports program and a high-tech gathering space for students from all disciplines.

The arena was made possible with a $520,000 gift from Direct Communications. Direct Communications is a longstanding benefactor of ISU, playing a key role in multiple initiatives including the INCLUDE project, which provides access to mental health and educational resources to rural high school students across the state, as well as the enhancement of Direct Communications Field at Miller Ranch Stadium, home to Bengal Softball.

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Dean's Excellence Fund Accepting Requests from Students

The College of Science and Engineering Dean's Excellence Fund is intended to support students in their journey through ISU. The Dean's Office is particularly interested in providing financial assistance to students who might not be able to enroll in or complete the semester because of short-term financial hardships. Students seeking such support should be in good academic standing.

If you know of a student who is in need of short-term support, please have them complete this form.

October 5: Early 8-week course grading opens

October 12: Mid-term week

October 12: Spring 2027 Class Schedule viewable online (subject to change)

October 19: Late 8-week courses begin

October 20: Early 8-week course grading closes at 5:00 pm

October 23: Last day to add/drop late 8-week courses

October 30: Last day to WITHDRAW from full-semester courses

November 2: 7:00 AM- Spring 2027 Class level registration for continuing ISU students begins (subject to change)

November 2: 7:00 AM - Registration begins for Seniors (90+ credits) and Graduate students 12pm

November 4: 7:00 AM - Registration begins for Juniors (58-89 credits)

November 6: 7:00 AM - Registration begins for Sophomores (26-57 credits)

November 9: 7:00 AM - Registration begins for Freshman and all others (0-25 credits)

November 20: Last day to WITHDRAW from late 8-week courses

November 23: Fall recess (no classes -- Thanksgiving Break)

Updates can also be found on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Bluesky, and Instagram. To add events to the calendar, please contact the Administrative Assistants in your department. The university-wide calendar of events is available here.