IOWA CITY—The University of Iowa’s International Writing Program (IWP) has received a $100,000 donation from Hugh Culverhouse Jr., a Florida attorney, businessman, and philanthropist, bringing his total gifts to the IWP to $350,000 since 2025.
“As an avid reader I believe deeply in the value and importance of literature,” Culverhouse explained. “The work of the International Writing Program—which had three federal grants terminated last February—not only brings together creative writers from across the globe, it promotes empathy and a way of exploring the world through storytelling. I hope that my gift can inspire others to continue to support the program.”
The IWP’s Fall Residency is an 11-week program that brings established international writers to the UI campus, providing them with time to produce literary work, while also introducing the social and cultural fabrics of the United States. The experience enables them to take part in American university life and creates opportunities for them to contribute to literature courses both at the UI and across the country.
Founded in 1967, the IWP has hosted more than 1,600 writers from 160 countries at the UI, including three Nobel Laureates in Literature. The program provides time and space for writers to conduct research, start or complete new books, and share their work in classrooms and other venues.
Thank you to Mr. Culverhouse Jr. for continuing to support the IWP mission.