Matthew Reed, executive director of The Harkin Institute of Public Policy & Citizen Engagement , has resigned after less than two years in the position.
A spokesperson for the research institute headquartered at Drake University confirmed the news about Reed’s departure. In an email, Kathryn Kuckelman, who manages the institute’s communications, said university president Marty Martin will oversee operations until the search for Reed’s successor begins.
Kuckelman did not immediately respond to follow-up questions about why Reed left and when staff were informed of his departure. As of Monday afternoon, the Des Moines Register observed Reed’s bio, contact information and staff picture were removed from the institute’s website.
Reed, appointed in July 2023 following a nationwide search, is a career higher-ed administrator. Before coming to Iowa, he was vice president of academic affairs at Brookdale Community College in New Jersey, according to a university news release announcing Reed’s hire. While in that role, he served as chief academic officer, overseeing the college’s 9,000 students and 180-plus full-time faculty members.