University of Iowa Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Terry Johnson has announced that he will retire from the university on April 5, 2027.

“Serving this university for the past 33 years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” says Johnson. “I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues, mentor talented students, and contribute to a community dedicated to learning, discovery, and service. While I retire with gratitude for the opportunities and friendships that have shaped my career, I am equally excited to see the university continue to thrive. I will always cherish being part of an institution whose impact extends far beyond its campus, and I leave with deep appreciation for everyone who made this journey so meaningful.” 

Johnson was appointed chief financial officer and treasurer in February 2016 after serving in the position as the interim for a year. He joined Iowa in 1993 and became associate vice president and university controller in 1997. 

Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, and an MBA from Iowa. He is a certified public accountant.

"Terry’s wide-ranging contributions to the university, almost always behind the scenes, have been significant,” says UI President Barbara Wilson. “He is a steadfast leader and a reliable steward of our state and university resources. He has helped us work through complex problems, and the processes he has established will continue to serve the university for years to come.”

The university will begin a national search for Johnson’s replacement, and has appointed Peter Matthes, vice president for external relations and senior advisor to the president, and Edith Parker, dean of the College of Public Health, as co-chairs of the search committee.

Matthes was named to his current role in 2014. Before that, he served as director of federal relations at Iowa.

Parker was named dean of the College of Public Health in 2018. Before that, she served as departmental executive officer in the college’s Department of Community and Behavioral Health. 

A search firm and search committee will be named during the fall 2026 semester.