A first-of-its-kind collaboration with 10 other large public research universities has been the driving force behind numerous Iowa State initiatives designed to help more students graduate.

Closing the achievement gap for Iowa State's underrepresented, first-generation or low-income students wouldn't require "astronomical" numbers. Plus, we're learning what kinds of student support actually make a difference.

The research office added another seed grant to its pool of internal funding opportunities, this one aimed at collaborative teams of Iowa State and University of Iowa bioscience researchers.

At the Feb. 1 Professional and Scientific Council meeting, senior vice president and provost Jonathan Wickert addressed the Iowa Senate proposal to slash $6.9 million from ISU's operating appropriations.

Most university utility rates will decrease slightly when the new fiscal year starts in July, giving colleges and auxiliary units a break on their monthly bills.

Undergrads say they found their calling in medicine by getting involved at Iowa State -- years they've packed with classes, clubs, research and other activities.

• Reception: "Queer Fashion and Style: Stories from the Heartland" exhibit, Feb. 8 (5-8 p.m., 1015 Morrill)

• Farewell: Darren Jarboe, Center for Crops Utilization Research, Feb. 13 (2-4 p.m., atrium, Food Sciences Building)
• Retirements: Steve Goben, Kevin Maher and Nick Piekema, McNay Research Farm, Chariton; and Dale Niedermann, Ag Engineering/Agronomy Research Farm, Boone, Feb. 13 (2-3:30 p.m., program at 2:15 p.m., MU Pioneer Room)
• Retirement: Mike Owen, agronomy, Feb. 16 (3-5 p.m., program at 3:30 p.m., MU Pioneer Room)

• Retirement: Catherine Adams, psychology and communication studies, Feb. 21 (4-5:30 p.m., W117 Lagomarcino)
• Reception: "Luminosity" exhibit, Feb. 22 (6-8 p.m., Design on Main Gallery, 203 Main St.)
• Retirement: Marc McGinn, Ames Laboratory, Feb. 27 (1:30-3 p.m., 301 Spedding)
• Retirement: Peggy Best, Center for Crops Utilization Research, Feb. 27 (2-4 p.m., program at 2:30 p.m., atrium, Food Sciences Building)

College of Veterinary Medicine dean finalist (1 of 3)

• Candidate 3: Monday, Feb. 19 (3:15-4:15 p.m., 2532 Vet Med)

James H. Banning, former student and the first African-American to complete a U.S. transcontinental flight (1932) and receive a commercial pilot's license, is the focus of a Feb. 9 performance by two Broadway actors (10 a.m., Howe Hall auditorium). Admission to "The Flying Hobos" is free.

Semifinal performances of the ISU student musical talent show will be held Friday and Saturday evening in the Memorial Union Great Hall, with winners advancing to the finals Feb. 23-24. Tickets are $10 for semifinals and $14 for finals, with discounts for ISU students, youth and groups of 10+. Purchase tickets online or at the MU Maintenance Shop box office (11 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays).

Reiman Gardens will host Orchid Fest Feb. 10-11 (9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily). A variety of orchid species will be on display and for sale, and the Central Iowa Orchid Society will staff a question-and-answer booth. Garden admission rates apply.