Leath: We will ensure smooth transition of Harkin Institute

(Drake University) President Maxwell and I on a number of occasions have discussed the relocation of the Harkin Institute from Iowa State to Drake. We’ve had a good working relationship, and I have assured him that we will work with him and members of his staff to ensure a smooth transfer of responsibility.

The institute has been inactive since early February when Sen. Tom Harkin announced he had changed his mind and would not locate his official papers at Iowa State.

The Iowa State University Foundation is in contact with donors who made gifts to the Harkin Institute through the foundation, and will continue to honor donor wishes regarding the future of their gifts. David Peterson, who has served as interim director of the institute, will return to his duties as a professor of political science.

I’m grateful to David and others who over the past two years have worked hard to support and develop the institute, and we wish it success at Drake University.

Steven Leath
President
Iowa State University