The University of Iowa Removes Name of Stephen Wynn From its Institute for Vision Research

The University of Iowa is removing the name of Stephen A. Wynn from its Institute for Vision Research in light of allegations of sexual misconduct. Wynn has been accused of sexual misconduct by several former employees over the course of many years. The allegations were detailed in an expose published by The Wall Street Journal on January 27.

Stephen Wynn built a vast empire of casino properties in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. He recently resigned as CEO of Wynn Resorts.

The University of Iowa named the Institute for Vision Research after Wynn in 2013 after he made a $25 million pledge toward research to cure hereditary blindness. To date, Wynn has contributed $20 million to the effort.

University of Iowa President Bruce Harreld said in a statement that “the University of Iowa is committed to ending sexual violence and sexual misconduct and ensuring survivors know they are believed, supported, and assisted. It is incongruous with the university’s values to maintain the Wynn name on our program and building.”