For Megan Zimmerman, ’20, the University of Northern Iowa has always been more than a place to earn a degree. From her first day as a student through her role directing Dementia Friendly Iowa and now as an assistant adjunct professor of gerontology at UNI, Zimmerman’s journey has been shaped by curiosity, mentorship and a deep commitment to improving the lives of older adults.

Zimmerman graduated from UNI in 2020 with a double major in gerontology: long-term care administration and social work, and earned her master’s degree in gerontology from Iowa State University in 2024. She chose UNI because it offered Iowa’s only undergraduate gerontology program, and she loved the way the campus felt — big enough to offer opportunity yet small enough to foster personal connections.

“UNI wasn’t just where I earned a degree. It really helped me become the person I am today,” Zimmerman said.

Mentorship played a pivotal role in her growth. Zimmerman credits Professor of Gerontology Elaine Eshbaugh as both an “encourager and inspiration” in helping her grow, through opportunities like leading the 2019 Dementia Conference, an event that sparked her work in dementia-friendly initiatives. She also participated in national conferences and helped launch UNI’s Dementia Simulation House shortly after graduation — experiences that profoundly shaped her professional path.

Now on the other side of the classroom, Zimmerman teaches courses in gerontology, including Families, Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias. She has a unique perspective on the dedication of instructors. 

“Before, as a student, I could feel how much the instructors cared about what they were teaching and the work they put into it,” Zimmerman said. “But now, being on the other side of it, I see how much thought and passion go into helping students understand gerontology. It’s incredible.”

After graduation, Zimmerman led Dementia Friendly Iowa for nearly six years, training thousands of people, advocating for dementia-related legislation and working alongside volunteers and individuals living with dementia. Today, she balances teaching at UNI, running her small business, Joyful Generations, and embracing life as a mom.

Zimmerman’s favorite memories of UNI extend beyond the classroom, from volunteering at a local adult day center and interning at a continuing care retirement community to line dancing with friends and even attending events at the house that would one day become the Dementia Simulation House. “That’s actually where I met my husband, at a grill-out when it was just a rental,” she said. “I never expected that house would later become such a big part of my life in so many ways.”

Reflecting on her experiences, she encourages current students to say yes to opportunities, connect with faculty and explore what excites them.

“Your undergrad is a really great time to explore what you want to do,” Zimmerman said. “If you’re interested in something, figure out a way to work on it as a project. Shadow someone or do an internship. Now is the time to do that. You learn so much from real-world experiences outside of class.”

As UNI celebrates 150 years, Zimmerman takes pride in being part of the university’s enduring legacy. “It’s incredible to think that UNI has been doing amazing things for the last 150 years,” she said. “What an impact so many students are making in the world today because of that.”

From student to educator, Zimmerman embodies the spirit of UNI — a place where passion meets opportunity and where alumni continue to make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond.