Barbara J. Wilson

Barbara J. Wilson Overview

Dr. Barbara J. Wilson assumed the role of the 22nd president of the University of Iowa on July 15, 2021. With a strong emphasis on the university's comprehensive excellence, creativity, and community spirit, her leadership priorities revolve around prioritizing people. During her first year, significant achievements were made, including the development of a new five-year strategic plan, the implementation of transformative faculty recruitment and retention programs, and the introduction of the First Gen Hawks program, resulting in improved retention rates for first-generation college students. President Wilson's commitment to the university's growth and advancement is evident through her successful fundraising efforts, which secured over $400 million in support of student, faculty, and healthcare initiatives, including the largest gift ever received in the university's 175-year history.