Sally Mason in Waterloo, talks about U of I impact - KWWL.com

University of Iowa President Sally Mason stopped in Waterloo Monday to talk about the college's economic impact on Black Hawk County.

Mason spoke to the Waterloo Rotary Club at the Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center, telling the group how the University of Iowa impacts the local community.

One example Mason gave was how the University of Iowa has purchased more than $10 million of goods of services from Black Hawk County vendors in the past year.

"Having a chance to come and talk to the folks in Waterloo and Black Hawk County about what the University of Iowa can contribute and does contribute to Black Hawk County, I think it's a great opportunity for me," she said.

Mason has been working without a contract since August, leading to questions about her leadership. But she said she remains optimistic following her mid-year evaluation with the Board of Regents.

"I had a very good conversation with the Regents about the goals that were set for this year and the progress we're making towards those goals," Mason said. "It was an extremely cordial and informative give and take -- questions and answers, that sort of thing."

Mason has been president at the University of Iowa since 2007.