Stanley Student Challenge
What is the Stanley Student Challenge?
In an attempt to get more students involved and engaged with the events and activities happening at the Stanley Museum of Art, we are inviting any and all University of Iowa students (graduate or undergraduate) to undertake the Stanley Student Challenge.
Those interested in participating will receive a punch card, detailing the semester's schedule of student-focused programs. Students should attend at least three of the listed events on the card throughout the semester, getting their card stamped at the front desk for each one.
During finals week, students will be able to turn in their stamped cards for a prize: custom SMA merch!
What events count towards the challenge?
In order to successfully complete the Stanley Student Challenge, students must get at least three stamps on their challenge card. The challenge resets each semester--stop back in the spring for a new challenge card and another chance at a prize.
Below, you will find a list of the student-specific events on the card. These Night at the Museum events were developed in conjunction with the AY25/26 Campus Engagement Coordinator, Lauren Smith.
In addition to the events listed, students may also attend general/ public programs (a full calendar of events can be found here) and/or visit the Stanley on their own time to receive a stamp.
Fall 2025 Challenge Events
September 11, 2025 - 5 - 7 pm - The Art of Voting
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
October 9, 2025 - 5 - 7 pm
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
November 13, 2025 - 5 - 7 pm - Chill & Create
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
December 16 - 18, 2025 - Study at the Stanley
Stop by the Stanley during our open hours Tuesday - Thursday of finals week to study in our lobby. Free snacks, coffee, study supplies, and stress relief toys are available. Need a break? Pick up a scavenger hunt or put in your earbuds and wander the galleries for a bit to relax.
Visit the event listing here.
Spring 2026 Challenge Events
February 12, 2026 5 - 7 pm
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
March 12, 2026 - 5 - 7 pm - Chill & Create
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
April 9, 2026 - 5 - 7 pm
Check back soon for more information!
Visit the event listing here.
May 12 - 14, 2026 - Study at the Stanley
Stop by the Stanley during our open hours Tuesday - Thursday of finals week to study in our lobby. Free snacks, coffee, study supplies, and stress relief toys are available. Need a break? Pick up a scavenger hunt or put in your earbuds and wander the galleries for a bit to relax.
Visit the event listing here.
What is the prize?
Students who complete the Stanley Student Challenge at the end of a given semester are eligible for their choice in prize: either a free Stanley-customized baby Baggu bag, or our new Stanley-customized water bottle.
Students will be able to pick up their prizes any time during finals week when the museum is open. Prizes will not be available before or after this time period. Students must turn in their completed Stanley Student Challenge card to receive the prize.
Check back each year for new prize offerings!
FAQ
Who can participate?
Any University of Iowa student can participate.
How can I get a challenge card?
Fall semester challenge cards will be available at the front desk beginning on Tuesday, August 27 (the first week of classes).
Spring semester challenge cards will be available at the front desk beginning on Tuesday, January 21 (the first day of classes).
How do I get my challenge card stamped?
Challenge cards can be stamped by gallery hosts at the front desk, or by event staff at the welcome table during special events.
If you're worried about losing your card before the end of the semester, don't forget to sign in via SWIPE so your attendance is recorded, as well!
What if I lose my card?
When you visit the museum, be sure to sign in at our SWIPE kiosk to track your attendance. In the case of a lost card, museum staff can access SWIPE to verify your attendance at events.
If you lose your card and would like a replacement or to verify your attendance at events in order to receive a prize, please reach out to Assistant Curator of Student Engagement Allie Tokarski, at allison-tokarski@uiowa.edu.
When can I pick up my prize?
Prizes will be available for pickup during finals week at the end of each semester. Even if you complete the challenge and get your three stamps before the end of the current semester, you must wait until the prize pickup window to receive your prize. Sorry for the inconvenience!
What is the prize?
Students are currently able to pick between two prize options: a custom Baggu bag and a custom Nalgene water bottle.
Check back each year for potentially new prize options!
| Baggu Bag | Nalgene Water Bottle |
|---|---|
The Stanley worked with Baggu, a company that makes simple, affordable, reusable shopping bags, on a custom bag to serve as the prize for the Stanley Student Challenge. This bag was designed by Campus Engagement Coordinator 23/24 Alexis Belme. Perfect for your lunch, a six pack, extra shoes, or a trip to the corner store.
| The Stanley has collaborated with Nalgene on a custom 32 oz. Sustain bottle to serve as another prize option for the Stanley Student Challenge. This bottle was designed by Josie Duccini (Gallery Host Lead) and Annelies Knight (Campus Engagement Coordinator 24/25).
|