The Washington Center has named the University of Iowa as Public University of the Year.

The organization, which provides college students opportunities to work and take classes in Washington, D.C., chose the UI from 630 public four-year schools for the award, which recognizes the longstanding partnership between the Washington Center and the UI, according to a press release.

Around 50 UI students participate in the program each year, the release said. More than 900 students have participated over the 30 years the UI has been involved in the Washington Center.

— by Regina Zilbermints