This will be a pivotal year for The University of Iowa and for the ongoing work of flood recovery. Hundreds of staff, faculty, students, and friends continue to channel their dedication, creativity, and foresight into this work, united by their commitment to build a stronger, safer campus.
We will make major decisions in 2009 that will shape our university for decades to come and prepare us to weather future challenges. In the coming months and year, facilities will be renovated or rebuilt, and flood mitigation projects will help our campus and community live alongside the Iowa River.
We have been heartened by the news that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will provide 90 percent of the financing for either the replacement or restoration and mitigation of two major building complexes—Hancher Auditorium, Voxman Music Building, and Clapp Recital Hall, and the Art Building East complex. The university, with proper campus consultation, will examine the costs and benefits of both options and make a recommendation to the Iowa Board of Regents as soon as possible.
As well, several other major UI buildings damaged by the flood will be eligible for FEMA financing for restoration and mitigation strategies to prevent damage from future flooding. Those include Art Building West, Iowa Advanced Technology Laboratories, Theatre Building, the Iowa Memorial Union, the Museum of Art building, Hawkeye Court Apartments, and the UI power plant and energy distribution systems.
People and programs across campus have met the challenges of the last several months with a can-do spirit that has come to characterize The University of Iowa. Rebuilding is a complex, time-consuming and, yes, sometimes frustrating process, but your hard work, optimism, and patience is an inspiration to everyone who treasures this university.
Small and large, short-term and long, every solution, adaptation, and gesture of support makes a difference. Thank you being part of this effort.
Sally Mason
President