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. 

For 16 years, Kara Hageman has combined her love of science and teaching as the senior test development associate with the Iowa Testing Programs and adjunct faculty in the Departments of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations and Teaching and Learning. 

Her role is wide-ranging, but the through-line is science education. After earning her Master of Arts in Science Education from the University of Iowa in 1999, Hageman spent a decade teaching high school chemistry and biology before returning to the university.

Within the College of Education, Hageman has worn many hats—working as a RAPIL (Regents Alternative Pathway to Iowa Licensure) evaluator and instructor, a doctoral student in Educational Psychology, and adjunct faculty in Psychological and Quantitative Foundations. In her current role with the Iowa Testing Programs, she works with teachers across Iowa to design and prepare original state-aligned science assessment items. 

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

I appreciate the opportunity to be surrounded by others who value education and the importance of preparing new teachers for all aspects of their career.  

What's your favorite memory as a Hawkeye? 

I have many, however, my favorite recent memory is being an alumni parent of a May 2025 Iowa Hawkeye graduate. 

What are your hobbies, interests, or special talents? What would colleagues be surprised to know about you?

We love to travel as a family. When I was a high school science teacher, I took students to Eleuthera, Bahamas every year for a marine biology institute. We've returned twice with our boys and plan to go again soon. We love to explore the untouched nature of the island and visit with the locals we met over the years. Some of them have Iowa Hawkeye memorabilia hanging in their house! 

Where is your favorite place to eat in downtown Iowa City? 

It's a three-way tie between The Dandy Lion, Bread Garden, and Harry's.  

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

The Iowa Homecoming Parade 

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

I want to scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef.  

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

We regularly watch Marvel movies with our boys. 

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