All Articles

Today is Arts and Humanities Day during LAS Week. Check out a few highlights of related faculty research in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences!!

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[A study of the Moscow Metro](https://link.las.iastate.edu/2017/08/28/a-study-of-the-moscow-metro/)
Magnificent art and architecture reveal the imagery and infrastructure of Russia.

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[Unseen role of the first lady is why the position remains important today, says ISU professor](https://www.news.iastate.edu/news/2017/01/17/firstladies)
First ladies are often defined by the causes they champion, but they also play a vital role the public rarely sees, says Stacy Cordery, an expert on first families and a professor of history at Iowa State University. That behind-the-scenes role is why Cordery says the position is still important.

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[Puppets provide voice during times of political unrest](https://www.news.iastate.edu/news/2017/03/29/puppets)
Puppets are often associated with children’s programs or theatre, but they’re also an effective tool for social change. Iowa State’s Amanda Petefish-Schrag says throughout history, puppets have helped bring “the voice of the people to light,” and she’s using some unusual materials to build the puppets to tell those stories.

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[Time to expand foreign language opportunities, says Iowa State professor](https://www.news.iastate.edu/news/2017/08/31/languageimmersion)
Language immersion programs not only improve fluency and vocabulary, but also build confidence in speaking the language. It is difficult to replicate that experience in a foreign language class, which may only meet for an hour a day. That is why an Iowa State University professor is a strong advocate for dual-language immersion programs at the elementary and secondary level.

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[“German Iowa and the Global Midwest” examines lasting influence of immigrants in Iowa](https://news.las.iastate.edu/2017/03/08/german-iowa-and-the-global-midwest-examines-lasting-influence-on-immigrants-in-iowa/)
A large percentage of Iowans can claim German heritage, but not many know the significance of that heritage, or how it helped shape our state. Jeremy Best, an assistant professor of history at Iowa State University, wants to change that. “German Iowa and the Global Midwest,” a traveling exhibit with accompanying lectures, talks and other events, will examine the lasting influence German Iowans had on our history.