Iowa's Public Universities Reveal Origins of School Colors

Iconic hues of Hawkeyes, Cyclones, and Panthers have deep roots in state history

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The distinctive colors of Iowa's public universities - the University of Iowa's black and gold, Iowa State University's cardinal and gold, and the University of Northern Iowa's purple and gold - have long been a source of pride and tradition for students, alumni, and fans. But the origins of these iconic palettes stretch back decades, with each school's color scheme reflecting the unique history and identity of the institution.

Why it matters

The school colors are more than just aesthetics - they represent the shared identity and community spirit that unites the students, faculty, and supporters of each university. Understanding the historical significance behind these colors provides valuable insight into the evolution and culture of Iowa's higher education landscape.

The details

The University of Iowa's black and gold colors date back to the 1870s, when the school's first president, Amos Dean, selected the palette to represent the state's natural resources and agricultural heritage. Iowa State University's cardinal and gold scheme was adopted in the 1890s, with the cardinal symbolizing the state bird and the gold representing the school's focus on the sciences. The University of Northern Iowa, formerly known as Iowa State Normal School, chose purple and gold in 1893 to evoke the school's academic mission and the natural beauty of the Cedar Valley region.

  • The University of Iowa adopted its black and gold colors in the 1870s.
  • Iowa State University selected its cardinal and gold palette in the 1890s.
  • The University of Northern Iowa chose purple and gold in 1893.

The players

Amos Dean

The first president of the University of Iowa, who selected the school's black and gold colors in the 1870s to represent Iowa's natural resources and agricultural heritage.

University of Iowa

The state's flagship public university, known for its iconic black and gold color scheme.

Iowa State University

A leading public research university, with a color palette of cardinal and gold that reflects the state bird and the school's focus on the sciences.

University of Northern Iowa

Formerly known as Iowa State Normal School, the university adopted its purple and gold colors in 1893 to represent its academic mission and the natural beauty of the Cedar Valley region.

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The takeaway

The distinctive colors of Iowa's public universities are more than just aesthetics - they are deeply rooted in the history, identity, and culture of these institutions. These iconic palettes continue to unite and inspire generations of Hawkeyes, Cyclones, and Panthers, serving as a tangible connection to the shared experiences and traditions that define the state's higher education landscape.