The staff spotlight series celebrates and elevates all the people who make the UI College of Education such a special place to work. This spotlight recognizes the critical contributions our staff members make to the College of Education community in support of our faculty and students. 

Karla Madrigal spent her undergraduate and graduate years at the University of Iowa preparing to support students. Now, she’s back to do just that. As the College of Education's new graduate recruitment coordinator, she combines her background in counseling with her own experiences as a first-generation Hawkeye to help prospective graduate students feel welcomed, supported, and confident as they explore their future at Iowa. 

Madrigal earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2022 and a Master of Arts in School Counseling in the Department of Counselor Education from the College of Education in 2024. While completing her graduate studies, she worked as an academic coach in the former Center for Inclusive Academic Excellence before spending two years as a school counselor in West Liberty. Although she enjoyed her time in K–12 education, she felt called back to the College of Education to continue supporting students in a new way. 

In her newly created role, Madrigal is building an intentional, student-centered recruitment experience for all graduate programs in the College of Education, in addition to supporting the recruiting efforts for the Master of Arts in Teaching, Leadership, and Cultural Competency. Drawing on both her professional background and personal journey, she is committed to helping future Hawkeyes feel heard, valued, and empowered from their very first interaction with the College of Education.

“As a first-generation graduate of the University of Iowa, I am passionate about helping bridge gaps for students and bringing both my counseling background and a personal, student-centered approach to the recruitment process within the College of Education.”  

How has your path led you to where you are today? 

Everything I do is driven by a desire to make my family proud. The sacrifices my parents made have inspired me to work hard, persevere through challenges, and create a meaningful impact. 

What is your favorite part about working at the College of Education?  

The people. Everyone around you, both staff and students alike, are some of the kindest people you will meet. 

What's your favorite memory as a Hawkeye? 

Seeing my family at the Carver-Hawkeye Arena during my graduation ceremonies and supporting my loved ones at theirs. 

What is something on campus that you look forward to participating in or doing? 

I am hoping to finally attend an Iowa football game! 

What are your hobbies, interests, or special talents?  

A few of my favorite things include traveling, fitness/health, thrifting, spending time with my loved ones, and going on coffee runs. If you ever want to grab a coffee and chat, I’ll always say yes! 

What would colleagues be surprised to know about you? 

I ran my first half marathon in October of 2025 with my fiancé. As someone who was never a runner, you can do anything you set your mind to! 

What’s something new you’d like to try or learn? 

I'd love to be trilingual and learn a new language. 

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? 

Anywhere with mountains and a good cup of coffee. 

What book, movie, or TV show has been keeping your attention lately? 

We're currently rewatching Ozark. 10/10 would recommend. 

Visit the Celebrating College of Education staff page to nominate a colleague. Self nominations are also welcome.