IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — The University of Iowa is planning to spend up to $2.4 million renovating the home and office where the school’s controversial new president will live and work.
University official Don Guckert told the Board of Regents that the school would use the leadership transition to make critical improvements and repairs.
The news comes amid a backlash over the hiring of former IBM executive Bruce Harreld, who’s scheduled to start Nov. 2.
Guckert said changes to the Jessup Hall office would cost up to $900,000 and make it a “more welcoming, updated and appropriate facility.” Changes may include additional gathering space, upgraded conference facilities and security.
As for the president’s residence, Guckert says it will cost an estimated $1.5 million to fix 80 problems, such as cracks in walls and floors.
