December 3, 2025 Meeting Recap
The Iowa Board of Regents met December 3, 2025 at the Board Office in Urbandale. Selected items discussed are outlined below. View the full agenda here.
Cramer Elected Board President; Tjaden President Pro Tem VIDEO
The Board unanimously elected Robert Cramer and Kurt Tjaden to serve as President and President Pro Tem, respectively. Cramer is the 24th President and Tjaden is the 11th President Pro Tem of the Board of Regents. Both will serve until their leadership terms expire on April 30, 2026.
Cramer succeeds Regent Sherry Bates, who retired from the Board today. Tjaden succeeds Regent Greta Rouse, who stepped down from Board Leadership, but will remain a Regent.
Related: Bates to Leave Board of Regents; Rouse to Step Down as President Pro Tem
Center for Intellectual Freedom Bylaws VIDEO
The Board approved bylaws for the Center for Intellectual Freedom (CIF) at the University of Iowa. Previously presented at the November 2025 meeting, the CIF Bylaws were tabled for more discussion. Following the initial CIF Advisory Council meeting in November, the bylaws were adopted and approved by the Board of Regents.
CyTown Agreements VIDEO
The Board approved various development lease proposals for Iowa State’s CyTown site. These included building plans, financing structures and further financial information. The CyTown project, a planned multi-use district located between Jack Trice Stadium and the Iowa State Center, was first presented to the Board at the June 2022 meeting.
President Emerita Wendy Wintersteen VIDEO
The Board approved a President Emerita designation for Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen effective upon her retirement on January 2, 2026. Wintersteen joins former ISU Presidents Hughes, Friley, Hilton, Parks and Geoffroy as ISU presidents with emeritus status.
Investment and Finance Committee Charge VIDEO
The Board charged the Investment and Finance Committee, chaired by President Pro Tem Tjaden, with creating a revenue enhancement efficiency study. The comprehensive review will make specific recommendations to the Board on new and additional revenue streams and cost efficiencies.