Des Moines Professor to Study 'Medieval Magic' on Sabbatical

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Each year, the Iowa Board of Regents grants 'professional development assignments' (PDAs) to professors at the state's three public universities - Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa. For the fiscal year 2027, there were 105 total PDA requests at a taxpayer cost of $325,092. One of the more unique PDAs is from Iowa State University history professor Michael Bailey, who will use his sabbatical to study 'Medieval Magic: A History of Disbelief' and publish a book on the topic.

Why it matters

Professor Bailey is a global expert in the history of medieval magic, witchcraft and superstition. His research on how disbelief developed in the Middle Ages will contribute to a deeper understanding of an important component of medieval culture. The results of his work will be published in a book and incorporated into his university teaching.

The details

Michael Bailey, a history professor with 22 years of service at Iowa State University, will use his PDA to study 'Medieval Magic: A History of Disbelief.' Bailey plans to research how disbelief developed in the Middle Ages, which will enrich the understanding of an important aspect of medieval culture. The resulting book will share the same title as his research project and will be used to enhance his university courses.

• For the fiscal year 2027, there were 105 total PDA requests at a taxpayer cost of $325,092.