"Remember, Reimagine, Rebuild": University to mark flood anniversary June 15

The University of Iowa will commemorate the anniversary of the historic flood of 2008 on Monday, June 15, at Old Capitol Museum with displays of flood-related photographs and research, audio excerpts from the StoryCorps project, remarks by University officials and guests, musical performances, and refreshments.

Old Capitol, normally closed on Mondays, will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the special event. A formal program will begin at 12:15 p.m. on the west steps to the museum, overlooking the Iowa River, with UI president Sally Mason and other guests making brief remarks. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held in the Senate Chamber on the second floor.

The event is free and open to the public.

Mason said the commemoration, whose theme is "Remember, Reimagine, Rebuild," is an opportunity for the campus and wider community to mark the historic nature of the flood and its impact on UI people and programs; to look forward to a reimagined campus that's more vibrant and vital than ever; and to acknowledge the dedication of everyone involved in rebuilding portions of campus damaged by the flood.

"In summer 2008, The University of Iowa and its neighbors demonstrated to the world why Iowa is an inspiring place to learn, work, and live," Mason says. "One year later, the cooperation, resolve, and community that united us then are stronger than ever.

"This program is a commemoration of an unprecedented event and an appreciation of the partnership, drive and creativity that keep us focused on the future," she adds. "It's an occasion to remind ourselves of the progress we've made, the challenges that lie ahead, and the opportunities we are about to seize in order to renew The University of Iowa in remarkable ways."

Activities planned for the day include:

• 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Supreme Court Chamber, first floor: Watch a slide show and listen to audio excerpts of the StoryCorps Oral History Project from the Iowa Digital Library Flood Collection. The stories may be found online at http://digital.lib.uiowa.edu/flood.
• 11 a.m.–3 p.m., second-floor rotunda: View a series of photographs taken by the UI Office of University Relations of the flood, its aftermath, and the ongoing recovery effort.
• 11 a.m.–3 p.m., first floor: View posters illustrating cutting-edge, flood-related research being conducted by UI faculty, staff, and students.
• 1–2:30 p.m., Senate Chamber, second floor: Enjoy a musical program.

Light refreshments will be served on the first floor of Old Capitol for the duration of the event.

The research posters and photograph exhibits will remain in place through July.

by Stephen Pradarelli