UI reaches financial settlement with former gymnastics coach Larissa Libby

Lang
5/30/24
The University of Iowa has come to an almost half-million-dollar financial settlement with former gymnastics coach Larissa Libby, who resigned under pressure on May 10th. She had been put on administrative leave by the university in March.
That’s when the UI launched an independent investigation into the program after several gymnasts and staff members expressed concerns with the environment being fostered by Libby.
The Cedar Rapids Gazette now reports Libby had a clause in her contract that pays her an extra $330,000 for “termination by university without cause.” The UI agreed to pay Libby that amount, plus $79,350 in supplemental pay. The school must also pay $39,650 to the Newkirk Zwagerman law firm in Des Moines.
In return for the payout, Libby agreed not to sue the university, the State of Iowa, the Board of Regents or any of its employees or affiliates. She is also not allowed on the property of UI athletic facilities without prior written permission, with the exception of attending events that are open to the public.
Jessa Hansen Parker is serving as the interim Hawkeye head coach as a national search for the program’s next head coach is ongoing.