In 2024, we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of the Iowa Memorial Union (1924) on the University of Iowa Campus. To honor this milestone, we will showcase the IMU’s rich history, spanning from its inception to the present day, through captivating photographic imagery.
Explore the history here: imu.uiowa.edu/about/history
Our Centennial tribute will feature a photo collage adorning Herky’s body, crafted from cast and cut vinyl. An acrylic ribbon, heated and bent to wrap and highlight the Centennial Celebrations, will be adorned with cut vinyl letters. To complement this display, we’ll use gold and black automotive paint for head and feet details.
Meghan works for the University of Iowa’s Student Life Communications team as the Environmental Graphic Designer for the Iowa Memorial Union. Together with Erin Fitzgerald, we get to do design projects all around the IMU and are excited for everyone to see our IMU Centennial Herky!
Erin Fitzgerald is a versatile artist whose journey spans graphic design, fine arts, and sculpture. After earning her BFA in Graphic Design from Iowa State University in 2006, she worked as a package and exhibit designer before assuming the role of Art Director for the Division of Student Life at the University of Iowa in 2012. Alongside her professional career, Erin founded Chicken Scratch Studio in 2006, crafting handmade fused glass and ceramic arts for 15 years, which she sold in stores and farmers’ markets.
Since 2004, Erin has also been teaching fine art classes, nurturing creativity in her students. Her passion for sculpture led her to create numerous public art installations across the Midwest, including nine Herky Sculptures for Herky on Parade in 2004, 2014, and 2024.
In 2016, Erin further showcased her talents by designing and building the Ride the Red Carpet RAGBRAI entrance for the City of Coralville. Recognized for her contributions, Erin received the BRAVO AWARD in 2016. From 2017 to 2019, she chaired the Public Art Advisory Committee for Iowa City, IA. Today, Erin continues her work at the University of Iowa and resides in West Branch, IA, with her husband Bob and their two young children, Owen and Ireland, where she explores new artistic endeavors.
Meghan works for the University of Iowa’s Student Life Communications team as the Environmental Graphic Designer for the Iowa Memorial Union. Together with Erin Fitzgerald, we get to do design projects all around the IMU and are excited for everyone to see our IMU Centennial Herky!
Erin Fitzgerald is a versatile artist whose journey spans graphic design, fine arts, and sculpture. After earning her BFA in Graphic Design from Iowa State University in 2006, she worked as a package and exhibit designer before assuming the role of Art Director for the Division of Student Life at the University of Iowa in 2012. Alongside her professional career, Erin founded Chicken Scratch Studio in 2006, crafting handmade fused glass and ceramic arts for 15 years, which she sold in stores and farmers’ markets.
Since 2004, Erin has also been teaching fine art classes, nurturing creativity in her students. Her passion for sculpture led her to create numerous public art installations across the Midwest, including nine Herky Sculptures for Herky on Parade in 2004, 2014, and 2024.
In 2016, Erin further showcased her talents by designing and building the Ride the Red Carpet RAGBRAI entrance for the City of Coralville. Recognized for her contributions, Erin received the BRAVO AWARD in 2016. From 2017 to 2019, she chaired the Public Art Advisory Committee for Iowa City, IA. Today, Erin continues her work at the University of Iowa and resides in West Branch, IA, with her husband Bob and their two young children, Owen and Ireland, where she explores new artistic endeavors.
Iowa Memorial Union
The Iowa Memorial Union (IMU) has been the cornerstone of campus life since it opened in 1925. Thousands of students, faculty, and staff visit the IMU every day. Our mission is to develop leaders, create connections, and build community. In many cases, this is the place where the university makes its first impression on visitors. At the IMU, students meet up, study, join student organizations, attend events, concerts, and lectures, and much more.
Experiencing the Hawkeye Wave for the first time!
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