University of Iowa Gains New Beer Deal for Tigerhawk

The University of Iowa has secured a partnership with beer giant, Anheuser-Busch to use the Tigerhawk logo. 

The Tigerhawk is the pride of Iowa City, but soon this logo could be added to posters like those hanging in area bars.

An agreement between Anheuser-Busch, Hawkeye Sports Properties, and Learfield Communications was reached to add the university logo to posters and other items.

Associate Athletics Director for External Affairs, Rick Klatt says the university agreed to the deal, but only after making it clear to Anheuser-Busch that it would have to meet certain requirements.

“Everywhere the Tigerhawk appears a responsible drinking message would also appear in the comparable size, which is important. Every time the Tigerhawk was going to be used with the responsible drinking message the university will require prior approval before production and distribution would occur,” said Klatt.

Some students at the University of Iowa say it’s a conflict of interest to have any sort of relationship with Anheuser-Busch. They say it conflicts with the university’s policy on responsible drinking.

University of Iowa student, Melina Neves says this relationship is counter productive.

“I think Iowa is already notorious for being a party school and I don’t think we really need any more help,” said Neves.

But Klatt disagrees saying the drink responsible message will carry a lot of weight.

“The idea is at the very point of sale that we are reminding people to be safe, legal, and responsible with their consumption,” said Klatt.

University President Sally Mason says proceeds from the beer deal will fund the university’s program to reduce binge drinking. University officials are not releasing how much the deal is worth.