Dustin Shinkle performs the Windgate test in his Interim class "Exploration and Assessment of Physical Fitness." The course introduces students to physical fitness components and testing procedures.

This class challenges students to think beyond established boundaries and those who would embrace the chance to invent a new way rather than look up an old solution and apply those findings.

Rev. Ken Meissner's Interim course "Forgiveness" is a study of the psychological and theological perspective of forgiveness through readings personal reflection and group discussion.

Students in the children's theatre Interim class perform for Storm Lake elementary students. The course is devoted to improvisational techniques, using imagination, and creating a production teaching tolerance for others.

BVU alumnus Rob Hach of Alta was one of eight "citizen co-chairs" from across the nation selected by the Presidential Inaugural Committee to take part in the inauguration celebration for President Barack Obama this past weekend.

BVU students work together to weave snowshoes in the Interim class "BVU Survivor." The course focuses on skills needed to hunt, hike and explore.

BVU students explore the Monte Albíçn archaeological site in Southern Mexico. The site is home to several monuments and pyramids. They are learning Spanish and performing service in the state of Oaxaca.

BVU student Laura Page and Dr. Melinda Coogan, assistant professor of biology, spent two days in Antarctica this January. The pair visited Collins Glacier on King George Island.

BVU students practice a traditional hands-on beading technique in the Interim class "Native North American Arts and Culture." The class focuses on the cultural significance of Native American artwork.

Buena Vista University, Storm Lake United and King's Pointe Resort will co-sponsor an "Extreme Winter Festival" Feb.8-10. Activities include an indoor triathlon, a broomball tournament and an outdoor obstacle course.

This January Interim course motivates students as they fit physical activity into their busy lives. Each session incorporates classroom learning with a running session including toning, strength work and cross training.

David Ekstrom looks through the lens during his January internship with Meredith Corporation in Des Moines. David is working in the company's photography and video production departments.

Students in Dr. Andrea Frantz's class are exploring issues including the nature of truth-telling journalism, ethics and the role of the storyteller, gaining trust and access, and the anthropological approach to researching a story.

Buena Vista University Theatre will perform "Circle Mirror Transformation" in February. In the play, an unlikely assortment of strangers sign up for a creative drama class and the seemingly silly acting games end up generating real-life drama.

The U.S. Green Building Council has awarded LEED gold certification for the Estelle Siebens Science Center at Buena Vista University. The building received a gold certification from the council in the category for existing buildings.