Letter from John Smith, AS’92, MA’00
In October of 2021, Drake launched The Ones with a $225 million goal, and a three-year timeframe. We stood at the crossroad of our past and our potential. We knew that one person could not overcome all the challenges we face as a community, nation, and world. But, when we moved the focus from the singular to the plural—from looking for the one to becoming the ones—everything changed.
You, our Drake alumni and friends, responded with enthusiasm. Your generosity will lead Drake into our next great era and provide transformational change that will secure a brighter future for generations of Drake students.
- $67 million in capital gifts are fueling a transformation of Morehouse Hall into the Johansen Student Center, which will provide a vibrant gathering space for Drake’s more than 150 student organizations. The gifts also supported the revitalization of Meredith Hall, the renovation of the Knapp Center, the construction of Mediacom Stadium, Tom and Ruth Harkin Center, and more.
- $95.8 million was raised in support of Drake’s seven colleges and schools.
- New programs and initiatives—such as the Jay N. Darling Institute and the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy—are providing powerful learning opportunities for students while impacting the community in positive ways.
- More than 330 scholarships were created or increased through $54 million in gifts.
- The Drake Fund was advanced with more than $9 million.
- More than $85 million was directed to enhance the Drake University Endowment.
Thanks to all 13,800 alumni and friends whose support and generosity will forever and positively change the trajectory of this University. Thank you for your investment, confidence, and enthusiasm. You are the ones preserving Drake’s most cherished traditions and transforming campus, our community, and higher education for an evolving world.
With deep appreciation and gratitude,
Vice President,
University Advancement
The Ones Who Transform Drake
Celebrating Unprecedented Generosity Toward a Brave & Bold Vision
On any given day on Drake’s campus, the outcomes of the University’s most ambitious campaign in history are already taking shape. A student studying public health is earning a scholarship to travel abroad, to learn firsthand important lessons to combat global health crises. Another with passions for shaping our democracy is sharpening their public speaking skills at the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy. A student-athlete spends time perfecting their penalty kicks at Mediacom Stadium, and a budding conservationist conducts soil research at the Jay N. Darling Institute.
These aspirations became a reality thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our wider Bulldog community and their gifts to The Ones: Drake’s Campaign for the Brave & Bold. More than 13,800 loyal and proud alumni, friends, and partners who believe in Drake’s mission and vision helped us surpass an ambitious $225 million fundraising goal by more than $40 million. With that success, you helped reinforce our institution as a powerful force for change—both locally and globally.
MILESTONES ALONG THE WAY
Several key milestones contributed to the campaign’s momentum. In October 2019, Drake Board of Trustee Member, Paul Schickler, BN’74, MBA’83, and his wife, Claudia, made an early gift of $5 million to support the Jay N. Darling Institute and Drake Athletics. In March 2022, Drake Trustee, Dr. Suzie Glazer Burt, HDHL’24, made a $5 million gift to support women’s athletics, marking one of the largest single-donor contributions to the campaign. In February 2023, the Larry and Kathleen Zimpleman College of Business was established thanks to a multi-million-dollar gift.
In November 2023, the University celebrated the grand opening of the Mediacom Stadium in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools. This state-of-the-art facility symbolizes Drake’s commitment to enriching student experiences while serving as a significant community resource. Additionally, the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy, funded by a $5 million gift, was unveiled, marking a commitment to revitalizing democracy through scholarship, research, and immersive learning experiences.
In 2024, the campaign soared higher with the announcement of the largest single-donor gift in Drake’s history—a $28 million contribution from Greg and Cie Johansen to support the revitalization of Morehouse Hall, the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Drake Athletics, John Dee Bright College, and sustainability efforts. The gift supports the transformation of Morehouse Hall into the Johansen Student Center, a lively new space for students to gather and build community.
Ambitious Goals, Bold Outcomes
The Ones reimagined Drake’s commitment to students and society through seven major priorities aimed at meeting today’s challenges with innovative solutions.
Leading with Purpose
Cultivating changemakers and entrepreneurs to equip every Bulldog with the ability to make a difference in their community.
Revitalizing Democracy
Creating the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy to enhance civic leadership and public participation.
Educating for a Digital World
Expanding digital proficiency platforms to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
Enhancing Student Experience
Renovating Morehouse Hall into the dynamic Johansen Student Center supporting more than 150 student-led organizations.
Strengthening the Heartland
Establishing the Jay N. Darling Institute to support conservation efforts and bolster the vibrancy of rural America.
Creating Access to Opportunity
Upholding Drake’s commitment to inclusivity by ensuring access to education for students of all ages and backgrounds.
Transforming Every Day
Pursuing excellence in every endeavor and shaping Drake into a place where students can reach their full potential.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
While the campaign closed in historic fashion, we look ahead to the many ways in which the work of the campaign lives on—from the establishment of new academic programs to the renovation of iconic campus buildings—generations of future Bulldogs will benefit from this extraordinary campaign. We are immensely grateful for this bold reminder that when the Drake community comes together—alumni, friends, students, and faculty alike—there is no limit to what can be achieved.
Drake’s Campaign for the Brave & Bold
#3 1990s
#3 1960s
Deans’ Updates
The Jay N. Darling Institute
The Jay N. Darling Institute is built on a strong history, dating back to June 7, 1926, when Drake awarded Jay N. Darling—a tireless advocate for the preservation of America’s great natural ecosystems, and a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist—an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Law to recognize his cultural achievements.
The mission of the Jay N. Darling Institute is to provide educational and scholarly expertise for rural communities so that citizens have improved access to quality health care and education, nutritious food, unimpaired natural resources, and ongoing economic and cultural opportunities. It serves to honor Darling’s legacy by inspiring others to create sustainable change through collaboration and action, creating partnerships between Drake and the people of rural communities to help bolster the economic, social, and cultural vibrancy of rural America.
These collaborations deliver transformative change through student service, faculty research, and policy advocacy.
Drake students who receive scholarships through the Darling Institute join the Student Conservation Corps, known as the DarlingCorps. Under the supervision of faculty mentors, DarlingCorps students partner with rural communities to complete a service or applied research project that addresses challenges in fields like healthcare, food security, economic development, community improvement, justice, the performing arts, and resource management.
Lastly, the Institute builds and stewards the authoritative archive of Darling’s legacy to approach leadership and civil discourse while driving rural communities toward a more sustainable future.
We are immensely grateful to those in the Bulldog community whose generosity has helped us honor Darling’s legacy and made this powerful work possible.
The Visionaries
“I’m learning one thing the hard way, and that is that you have to re-educate the public mind every 15 or 20 years, or it forgets everything learned a while back.”
“The purpose of the Darling Institute is to connect rural communities facing challenges with Drake University students to foster collaborative solutions.”
“Rural Americans were our customers for the more than four decades when I worked for Pioneer. Claudia and I are driven to give back to the hardworking people in rural America. We are working with Drake faculty to shape a program which makes concrete, positive changes in the lives of rural residents.”
Students and Faculty Lead Economic Revitalization in Perry, Iowa
Allie Raines, a sophomore double-majoring in graphic design and environmental science, is one of the students making a difference. Working remotely with Perry’s communications team, Raines has been instrumental in creating graphic designs for the city’s rebranding effort, Perry Next. “They didn’t have the time to handle all the design work needed for their rebrand,” Raines shared. “I’m thrilled to help them connect with their community and work toward their goal of revitalization.”
As the city of Perry faces the challenges of rebuilding and recovering, Drake’s involvement demonstrates the powerful impact of academic-community partnerships. By bringing together the skills and knowledge of its students and faculty, Drake is not only providing critical assistance to Perry, the University is offering students hands-on experiences that reach well beyond the walls of a classroom.
Prairie Renaissance:
Restoring
America’s
Grasslands
America’s tallgrass prairies are working as hard as the rainforests in the fight against climate change. Once sprawling across millions of U.S. acres, these vital ecosystems are now among the most endangered landscapes on the planet.
Preserving Native Grasslands
“This project is about restoring the landscape between southern Iowa and northern Missouri,” said Keith Summerville, Paul and Claudia Schickler Executive Director of the Jay N. Darling Institute. “This area used to be 99.5% tallgrass prairie that was naturally grazed by bison before it was converted to pastures for livestock. European settlers and colonization converted this land almost entirely to cool-season species that can’t handle drought, which is increasingly becoming an issue for this area. The goal of this collaboration is to take what was converted from habitat to pastures and turn it back into native prairie lands.”
Frank Loncarich, grasslands systems manager at the Missouri Department of Conservation, highlighted the urgency of this mission. “Tallgrass prairie is one of the most imperiled ecosystems in the country, and probably in the world,” he said. “Missouri had 15 million acres of prairie, and now less than 45,000 acres remain. These are globally significant natural landscapes worth preserving.”
Engaging the Next Generation of Conservationists
Two students from Drake’s DarlingCorps program, Rory Hetz and Madelyn Christian, were directly involved, and gained hands-on experience in prairie restoration and conservation during their summer internship at The Nature Conservancy’s Dunn Ranch in Missouri. They lived and worked on the ranch throughout the summer and learned about native grassland management.
Hertz, a junior in environmental science with a concentration in biological conservation, said she enjoyed the hands-on work. “I had never touched a chainsaw before, but I’m getting more comfortable with it now. When I think about my future, I see myself staying in the U.S. and working in conservation. This experience has shown me how impactful this work can be.”
Christian, also a junior in environmental science, shared her deep connection to the land. “My family has hunted for generations, and my dad taught me about the importance of managing wildlife populations and conserving the land. Working on the prairie restoration project has been incredible. Seeing native plants and wildlife thrive in restored prairies is amazing. We’ve also been involved in prescribed burns, which are crucial for maintaining prairie ecosystems.”
This project is about more than just conserving land; it’s about building a sustainable future through collaboration and action. The partnership with Iowa and Missouri organizations demonstrates the power of collective effort in addressing environmental challenges.
Cultivating Connections:
Revitalizing Communities and Nature
When these natural and climatic factors are coupled with decreasing maintenance budgets for counties and municipalities, Iowa’s public spaces face serious, tangible problems.
But every problem has a solution when you put the right partners around the table.
Madison County Conservation and Drake University’s Jay N. Darling Institute partnered to create the Cultivating Connections program—to transform public and private areas into vibrant ecosystems with reintroduced native vegetation and animal species.
Cultivating Connections has a two-fold mission: collaboration and stewardship. Jessie Lowry, outreach coordinator for the Madison County Conservation Board has seen firsthand that conservation efforts thrive when diverse stakeholders come together. In Madison County, she and her team are working to unite conservation agencies, non-profits, businesses, service groups, and small farmers. “It’s all about everyone sitting at the same table and using those resources even more efficiently and effectively,” Lowry noted.
Empowering Students and Communities
An effort which isn’t just pleasing and pragmatic, but strategic.
Lowry said the Drake University students are adding energy and innovation.
“To have those fresh young minds and new ideas is invigorating,” she said. “The brainstorming sessions we get to have with these Drake students are amazing.”
On the stewardship front, the program encourages local citizens to take action in their daily lives to support nature. Drake students, along with Lowry, developed a card game called Find Your Why, designed to help people identify their personal motivations for valuing nature, health, and community. The game pairs these motivations with simple, actionable steps, from turning off outdoor lights to restoring prairie land.
Student Success Stories
Her efforts culminated in a successful launch event, fostering connections with local participants and agencies. Inspired by the experience, Snyder continued her work with the Madison County Conservation Board over the summer and aspires to a career in corporate sustainability. “I’m passionate about improving internal processes to benefit the outside world,” she shared.
Darby Russel, a sophomore from Olathe, Kansas, and member of the current DarlingCorps cohort for Cultivating Connections, is continuing Snyder’s work. As a double-major of journalism and sustainability and resilience, Russell brings fresh ideas and a passion for environmental storytelling. “My dream job is to make documentaries for National Geographic or Animal Planet,” she said. “I want to bridge the gap between the public and scientists through storytelling.”
The Darling Institute was a major factor in Russell’s decision to attend Drake, one of the few colleges offering a non-agriculture-based sustainability program. Her involvement in Cultivating Connections exemplifies the innovative, hands-on learning opportunities that Drake provides its students, preparing them to lead and inspire in the environmental sustainability field.
Community Engagement and Impact
Lowry emphasized the importance of community involvement: “All of this is to help people get engaged in local efforts. It’s about showing up at meetings, voting locally, and collaborating with like-minded individuals. Start small and celebrate every success.”
BECOME A STEWARD FOR NATIVE SPECIES
Recruiting Iowa’s Future Environmental Stewards
Recruiting Iowa’s Future Environmental Stewards
From Waukee, Iowa, Wing has roots in farming on both sides of his family. While initially focused on history, a meeting with Drake Professor Keith Summerville ignited a new passion. “I joined for history, but stayed for environmental science,” he said.
One of the highlights of Wing’s internship was interacting with farmers and witnessing their willingness to embrace new farming methods. “It’s really nice seeing farmers take initiative, letting people come on their land for restoration projects,” he said. “It’s good to see how farming is evolving and how the younger generations are adopting these new practices.”
Tackling a Complex Issue
Seeman sees his role as a bridge between the academic and professional worlds. “When students think about policy, they can see the general thought that farmers are bad, that we need to regulate them,” he reflected. “Then they get into the industry and realize how much more complex it is. If there was an easy way to regulate for clean water, we’d have done it by now.”
For Seeman, the value of these internships lies in showing students the reality of the job and the intricate balance between agricultural practices and environmental conservation.
The Drake Grad Behind the NFL’s Biggest Campaigns
Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Martin was eager to explore new cities when she discovered Drake University. The smaller school size appealed to her desire for a personalized academic experience. “I knew going into school that I wanted to major in something related to advertising, so when I found out that, at the time, Drake offered an advertising account management major, I was sold,” she recalled. A campus tour sealed the deal.
She fondly remembers professors Sandy Henry, Mary Edrington, and Dorothy Pisarski, with whom she still keeps in touch.
Today, Martin’s role at 72andSunny is dynamic and multifaceted. As Brand Director for the NFL account, she plays a dual role: being the client’s brand steward and mentoring her internal team. “A lot of my job is also being a pseudo therapist and having empathy and listening skills. Honing your communication skills is incredibly key. Being a great listener is one of the most important parts of my job,” she explained. Her responsibilities are diverse, from ensuring that the client’s vision aligns with agency deliverables to mentoring brand supervisors and managers.
Handling a high-profile account like the NFL comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. “All eyes are on you to raise the bar year after year,” Martin said. Balancing the demands of her workload while maintaining innovation and work-life balance is no small task. However, the rewards are equally great. “We make work that is seen by millions of people during some of the most impactful moments in culture, one of which, of course, is the Super Bowl,” she said. Working alongside some of the brightest minds in marketing, including NFL CMO Tim Ellis and 72andSunny’s Glenn Cole, pushes her to elevate her own game.
To stay ahead, Martin emphasized the importance of constant learning and networking. She stays updated through Google alerts, agency briefings from outside vendors, and, most importantly, by engaging in conversations with others in the field.
Martin is also passionate about giving back to the Drake community. “By maintaining an open-door policy, I encourage students to reach out. Professors continue that communication with alumni by inviting them to speak and engage with students,” she said. For Martin, there’s great satisfaction in offering advice or passing along a contact that can open doors that lead to a successful career path.
Game Changer: 50+ Years Covering Iowa Sports
Peterson’s mother, head of advertising at the Des Moines Register, added further fuel to his passion. “Dad and I would pick Mom up at the Register on Friday nights when she worked late,” he said. “Seeing the activity and meeting reporters whose bylines I’d later read in the paper gave me the itch.”
At East High School, Peterson honed his skills as co-editor of the student newspaper. “The practical experience I gained at East High made the transition to Drake smooth. The professors, many of whom worked at the Register, were instrumental in shaping my career,” he said, naming Drake journalism professors Bob Woodward and Joe Patrick as key influences.
Top-Notch Journalism Program
During his time at Drake, Peterson contributed significantly to The Times-Delphic student newspaper, serving as a sports editor. His biggest assignment came in 1972, when he covered Drake’s trip to the Pioneer Bowl. Drake lost the game, but Peterson said it was a fun experience, and one that fell on the eve of an important moment.
“The very next day, I started at the Register, marking the beginning of a career spanning over five decades.”
Despite the popularity of broadcast journalism, print remained Peterson’s true calling. “I couldn’t see myself in front of a camera,” he said. “Print intrigued me, especially the ‘Big Peach’, our morning sports section. Watching the printing presses and seeing the papers roll off was magical.”
Sports reporting may look glamorous, but it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. And while it may not be for the faint of heart, it was a perfect match for this Bulldog. “Writing 1,000 words in five minutes after a game isn’t easy, and the travel was brutal,” Peterson said. “But, I loved it.”
Unique Role of Print Reporters
Starting with high school sports coverage, Peterson advanced at the Register to cover college football and basketball for the Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones. He also chronicled seasons for the Iowa Cubs, who recently renamed their press box the “Randy Peterson Press Box” to honor the long-time reporter. He also covered Drake University, and the University of Northern Iowa. Career highlights included covering bowl games, NCAA tournaments, and state sports tournaments, where he had the chance to write about legendary athletes like Kurt Warner and Fred Hoiberg. He met golfing legend Arnold Palmer, and wrote about the Field of Dreams game in 2021 when actor Kevin Costner made a guest appearance. (Career highlights list courtesy of the Des Moines Register, March 3, 2024).
While his career was filled with thrilling moments, it also came with its share of challenges, namely balancing work and family life. “In the early years, reporting was so competitive. But I learned to prioritize family, never missing important moments like parent-teacher conferences or the birth of my daughters and granddaughter.”
Reflecting on his half-century sports career, Peterson is grateful for the foundation laid at Drake University. “Everything I learned, that whole background, started at Drake,” he said.
Building a Team and
Shaping a Legacy
The Early Days
This status meant the women played in small gyms, used the men’s locker room, and drove their own cars to away games. Even when the women’s team became official, they stood in line behind men’s intramural teams for gym time, which meant many midnight practices.
Not one of these challenges deterred the Bulldogs.
“At the time, we didn’t realize the impact or importance of what we were doing; we didn’t realize the legacy we were creating,” Ward said. “We were just a group of girls who loved the game and wanted to play.”
A tremendous milestone came when Drake posted a position for its first women’s basketball coach. When Ward heard the news, she immediately called her former teacher and coach of her hometown high school team–Carole Baumgarten.
Building a Team
“Carole said, ‘we are going to win, and we are going to be respected’,” Ward recalled. “I’m not sure which one she emphasized more.”
The women involved in the Bulldog team weren’t just working to elevate the sport in their hometown, but well beyond.
Bulldog Tenacity
Ward said as a female player, you were part of a world where it felt like many were working against you instead of with you. “They tried to do a lot of things to get female athletes to go home,” she said.
“We had nothing. Really, nothing,” Baumgarten said. “The practice court was so small that the top of the circle on each end intersected with the mid-court circle,” she laughed. “We had to flip cards for both the time and 30-second clock.”
PRIDE AMONG PLAYERS
Ward and her teammates showed that want by working to help the team not only perform in a professional way, but look and feel professional. Ward was the behind-the-scenes force, designing the team’s first uniforms, organizing game day logistics, and even creating and hand-running game programs on purple mimeographs.
That fighting spirit
One of the first players to receive a scholarship was Jody Bussing. A year after Bussing joined the team, the coaching staff worked to recruit a post player—and they had their eyes on Sharon Upshaw, a player from Detroit.
Baumgarten said Bussing’s selflessness made that recruitment goal a possibility. “Jody gave up her scholarship so we could get Sharon. She made a big difference—a big player and a strong athlete.”
Legacy: A Half-Century Later
Meg Galliano, LA’76, a member of that first women’s team, shared these memories. “We had a fun group of women, and everything was done on a shoestring budget for sure. We all had to be quite dedicated to the sport, and we were! The best memories were making friends with an eclectic group of people. Many of us played two sports–basketball and softball. What an honor to be on the first team at Drake!”
Today, as women’s basketball continues to thrive, Coach Baumgarten and Ward see the fruits of their labor in players like Caitlin Clark, a standout star who has captured the nation’s attention. “Caitlin Clark comes from years and years of women’s basketball,” Baumgarten beamed. “She has done more for basketball than any other single person. For those of us who pushed and fought all the way, Caitlin Clark is the shining star for everybody.”
Coach Baumgarten and Ward have been cultivating stardust for many decades now. After earning her education degree in 1977, and later, a master’s degree from Drake in 1997, Ward has dedicated her life to teaching and coaching. She spent 46 years as a teacher. Thirty-seven of those years were spent in Newton, Iowa, where she started the girls’ high school volleyball program and coached eighth grade girls’ basketball. Ward retired from teaching in May 2024.
“I think the biggest thing Coach Baumgarten instilled in me was you don’t take ‘no’ for an answer,” Ward said. “If she was told ‘no’ to something, she’d find a way around it. That’s what I took away, in my coaching, and even in my teaching.”
Pioneering player, Ward, looks back on the legacy these women created with immense pride. “I wouldn’t trade any of it. When I walk into the Knapp Center, I go, ‘Yes, I helped build this!’” Her love for Drake and its sports programs has never waned. “Drake is my family. My sister, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother all went to Drake. It’s a part of my life.”
Drake Women’s Basketball Success
Bulldog Women Prepare for Historic Basketball Rematch
“It’s really exciting for everyone, alums especially, to know and fully understand how far we’ve come,” Coach Pohlman said. “It’s amazing to be celebrating 50 years of women’s sports.”
There were nods to history throughout the evening, including throwback uniforms and special appearances from past players and coaches, making it a nostalgic trip down memory lane while showcasing the evolution of the program.
Coach Pohlman’s coaching style focuses on encouraging a deep love for the game and a strong sense of community among her players. “Our team is more than just a group of athletes; we’re a family,” she noted. “We want to radiate our love for the sport and for Drake, and when you watch us on the floor, you can see how much our players genuinely enjoy the game. That passion can carry you far—whether it’s winning championships or succeeding in life after basketball.”
This year, the Bulldogs are returning nine players, including standout seniors and household names like Katie Dinnebier and Anna Miller.
“It’s a lot of the same faces, but with a fresh perspective,” Coach Pohlman said. “Our team’s consistency and loyalty to the program are something special, and we’re excited to see how this chapter unfolds.”
As the Bulldogs prepare for their big matchup against the Hawkeyes and for the rest of the season, Coach Pohlman is focused on empowering her players, both on and off the court. “It’s about continuing to learn, supporting each other, and loving the game. That’s what connects us all,” she emphasized. “Whether we’re hanging banners or stepping into professional careers, that love and unity are what makes our program special.”
Get to Know Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ben McCollum
BEN MCCOLLUM
BEN MCCOLLUM
BRIAN HARDIN
Marty martin
Coach McCollum’s story is one of full-circle achievement: a former player-turned-coach returning to his home state with a wealth of experience and an unwavering drive. His wife, Michelle, and their three children, Peyton, Tate, and Grace Ann, join him as they become part of the vibrant Des Moines community. Drake University and its passionate fans can look forward to a new era, one infused with Coach McCollum’s legacy of hard work, strategic prowess, and an unyielding love for the game.
Women’s Soccer Team is a Legacy of Success
Women’s Soccer Team is a Legacy of Success
For Coach Horner, this season was about maintaining their top-tier status. “We’ve had fantastic years and been the team to beat in the MVC, so it’s exciting to get back to the top. Now, the task is to stay there,” she said.
A Drake alumna herself, Horner’s passion for the University and the sport of soccer runs deep. She began her coaching career at Drake in 2003 as an assistant coach, and by 2008, she had taken the reins as head coach. “I’ve been at Drake a long time,” she reflected, “and it’s been an incredible journey watching the team grow and succeed.”
One of the most exciting developments for the team is their new home at Mediacom Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility that not only provides an official-sized field but also serves as a powerful recruiting tool. “The challenge of all the sports sharing a facility before was difficult. Now, we have this awesome place to play,” Horner said. The new stadium has already proven its worth, hosting record-breaking crowds during last season’s semifinals and championship matches.
Horner is particularly proud of the academic and professional achievements of her players. Last season’s MVC Player of the Year, Emma Nagel, managed to shine on the field while pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy. Similarly, Delaney Goertzen has begun her journey in medical school, aspiring to become a general practitioner. “Drake attracts highly motivated students,” Horner noted, “and it’s just so neat to see how many opportunities and doors open for our players just by having the characteristics they have in terms of high work ethic and high achievement.”
As the team wraps up another season, Horner encouraged alumni to continue to support the Bulldogs. “I love it when alumni support us,” she said.
Lindsey Horner
Lifelong Learners Thrive Through OLLI Program
It wasn’t long before Johnson joined the OLLI programming committee, and eventually, became its chair. Under Johnson’s guidance, and with a transformative grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation, the program expanded significantly. Over the last three years, Drake’s lifelong learning organization, previously called the RaySociety, has received incredible support to strengthen and expand its programming, including grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, as well as a $1 million endowment gift.
This growth hasn’t been without challenges. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, one could argue a need for the community OLLI provided was never more necessary, but safety for all was the top priority. Johnson and others put their past skills at teaching and adapting to work by embracing Zoom and ensuring classes could continue online. This shift maintained community and broadened OLLI’s reach, enabling members to participate from anywhere.
The hybrid model of in-person and virtual classes became a staple. OLLI now offers members global connections with virtual classes that draw an international reach and strengthen local connections through collaborations with venues like Varsity Cinema, which hosts OLLI students every month for a movie viewing.
As with all good teachers, Johnson takes pride in watching the passion for continued education grow.
“As a teacher, I want to communicate the importance of lifelong learning to all my students regardless of their ages,” Johnson said. “We all need to model that idea in as many ways as we can.”
From Birdwatching to Water Aerobics
Before retirement, Urtz had a fulfilling 33-year career in community-based corrections. Her deep professional involvement influenced her contributions to OLLI, where she facilitates classes related to her field, which have included a tour of the DCI Crime Lab and conversations with former offenders.
“That’s the most fascinating piece of all of this,” she said. “Everyone has such interesting backgrounds and information they bring to the table.” Urtz has taken classes on birdwatching, water aerobics, the history of the Iowa State Fair, and various other subjects, valuing the social opportunities and intellectual stimulation they provide. Her participation extends beyond the classroom, attending OLLI events such as tours of Iowa’s historic sites, art exhibitions, and Drake sporting events.
“When I was working in corrections, I would go to statewide conferences twice a year and always felt so revitalized and excited about the new opportunities,” she shared. “I’m just curious by nature and enjoy learning. I didn’t know what I was looking for when I retired, but I knew I wasn’t going to sit at home.”
Want to get involved?
Former B-Ball Legend Appreciates Art Classes
Hansen’s initial involvement started when he was asked to join the advisory council, back when OLLI was known as the RaySociety. Reflecting on that time, he shared, “I was serving a two-year term, and it was interesting, and I loved it. It was just at the time that OLLI came into the picture.”
Hansen, a retired consulting partner in a CPA firm and former adjunct professor at Drake, has taken numerous OLLI classes with his wife. He describes the experience as, “like being back in college again, just keeping that mind going.” Among his favorite courses are those on jazz, performance arts, birdwatching, and old-time movies. “The movies are right on the top of my list. You get a class before the movie, then go to the movie, and after the movie, another session to discuss it,” he said.
Hansen’s deep connection to Drake extends beyond academics. He was a member of the first men’s basketball team to play at Madison Square Garden in the 1963-64 season, and has been actively involved with the athletics department ever since. “I serve as liaison to the Drake Athletics Department for men’s basketball alumni recognition activities every year,” he noted proudly.
For Hansen, lifelong learning and staying engaged with the Drake community have been central to his life. “I think that’s the key. It’s a continuation, you know, and you just don’t quit learning because you got your degree. It’s really a great thing for the seniors,” he emphasized.
Together, Johnson, Urtz, and Hansen illustrate the broad and inclusive nature of the OLLI program, which continues to attract and inspire a diverse group of lifelong learners.
Want to get involved?
Stay Curious and Connected with
Everclass
Another standout session was “Betting on the Game: The Rise, Risks, and Regulation of Sports Betting in America,” where Drake University law professors, Keith C. Miller and Jerry Anderson, discussed the Supreme Court’s landmark decision that allowed states to offer sports betting. They explored the implications of this decision and what has unfolded in the six years since, providing a deep dive into a rapidly evolving industry.
Christopher Porter, director of Drake’s artificial intelligence program, took our Everclass audience on a journey through the world of AI, discussing the basics of generative AI, a number of generative AI tools, and how we arrived at such an all-encompassing moment in technological advancement.
The late Al McCoy, FA’54, also graced Everclass with his stories. The legendary Phoenix Suns broadcaster, who recently retired after an astounding 51 seasons, shared memories from his illustrious career and and gave us an insider’s look at the evolution of sports broadcasting.
Sandy Marshall, AS’96, a distinguished Drake University alumnus, and current Public Engagement Specialist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, gave Everclass an exciting glimpse into his unique path from Drake to writing, producing, and educating.
This is just a sample of the many great adventures our Everclass speakers take us on throughout the year. Whether you’re an alumnus looking to reconnect with your alma mater or someone seeking new knowledge, we can’t wait to welcome you to the next Everclass.
Visit alumni.drake.edu/everclass to learn more. If you have ideas for future class topics, please email: alumni@drake.edu.
Stay Curious and Connected with
Everclass
Stay Curious and Connected with
Everclass
Christopher Porter, director of Drake’s artificial intelligence program, took our Everclass audience on a journey through the world of AI, discussing the basics of generative AI, a number of generative AI tools, and how we arrived at such an all-encompassing moment in technological advancement.
Sandy Marshall, AS’96, a distinguished Drake University alumnus, and current Public Engagement Specialist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, gave Everclass an exciting glimpse into his unique path from Drake to writing, producing, and educating.
Visit alumni.drake.edu/everclass to learn more. If you have ideas for future class topics, please email: alumni@drake.edu.
In Memoriam
-
1940s
Sarah (Sally) Needham, MM’46, Camarillo, CA
- Martha Bradshaw, LA’48, Bonney Lake, WA
-
1950s
Louis P. Kruzick, LA’50, JD’50, Los Angeles, CA
- Diane L. (Griffith) Kasdorf, FA’50, West Des Moines, IA
- Robert Sidney Yoder, BN’50, Simpsonville, SC
- Barbara Blue Dittmar, LA’50, Des Moines, IA
- Willard E. Canine, LA’50, West Des Moines, IA
- Phyllis Timmerman Bradley, FA’51, South Elgin, IL
- Gertrude (Vanginkel) Higgs, FA’51, Urbandale, IA
- Marvin A. Meyers, LA’51, Palm Beach Gardens, FL
- Robert M. Casper, BN’51, Winterset, IA
- Shirley A. Mullen, ED’52, DeWitt, IA
- Walter A. Lauvstad, PH’52, Seattle, WA
- Jerry Barnett, PH’52, West Des Moines, IA
- Marilyn J. Cox, ED’52, Sioux Falls, SD
- Alice Myers, ED’52, ED’66, Waukee, IA
- Frank Johnston, LA’53, Alhambra, CA
- Charles H. Barlow, LA’53, JD’58, Sioux Falls, SD
- Barbara B. Kuehn, LA’53, Mequon, WI
- Charleen R. (Harman) Gale, ED’54, Des Moines, IA
- David J. Abbott, PH’54, Indianapolis, IN
- Jim E. Curtis, FA’54, Windsor, CA
- George H. Rieger, BN’54, MA’60, Knoxville, TN
- Harry Darrell Hibbs, BN’54, Des Moines, IA
- Edith A. Desing, ED’54, Des Moines, IA
- Patricia D. McCary, FA’55, MS’89, West Des Moines, IA
- Kirby D. Fuller, LA’55, DV’58, MSE’71, Leawood, KS
- Ruth K. Engman, FA’55, Des Moines, IA
- Fredric J. Carlson, BN’55, Rowlett, TX
- Darline Moorhead, ED’55, Moorhead, IA
- Roy Avers, FA’55, Sellersburg, IN
- Emma L. Sternitzky, FA’55, Rumford, RI
- William T. Turner, BN’55, Castle Rock, CO
- Margaret A. Owen, ED’56, West Des Moines, IA
- Sigmund C. Nussbaum, BN’56, Surprise, AZ
- Elwin L. Basquin, JO’57, Peoria, IL
- James E. Diestler, FA’57, MA’68, Aurora, IL
- Kenneth W. Kuehn, BN’57, Mequon, WI
- James A. McKim, BN’57, Leawood, KS
- Paul J. Spaulding, FA’57, Los Angeles, CA
- Kenton D. Green, ED’57, Des Moines, IA
- John H. Britton, Jr., JO’58, Annapolis, MD
- Richard E. Heger, BN’58, Des Moines, IA
- Edwin Anthony, BN’58, Waukesha, WI
- Robert Barnhill, BN’58, Hidden Hills, CA
- David M. Glazer, BN’58, St. Louis, MO
- Kenneth N. Knowles, BN’58, Urbandale, IA
- Charlotte Morgan, FA’58, Urbandale, IA
- Sara E. Sutton, LA’58, HDHL’90, Johnston, IA
- Sheridan A. Cook, BN’58, Algona, IA
- Thomas M. Feltman Jr., MA’59, Alabaster, AL
- Donald T. Mills, ED’59, MSE’71, Marshalltown, IA
- Patrick McTigue, BN’59, Winnetka, IL
- Monroe B. Olson, FA’59, MM’60, Mentor, OH
- Arnold B. Merrell, BN’59, Lakewood, CO
- Henry L. Elwood, JD’59, Boca Grande, FL
-
1960s
Ellene Deets, PH’60, Orange City, IA
- Gerald Tubaugh, BN’60, Des Moines, IA
- Carolyn J. Hess, ED’60, Saint Paul, MN
- Donald C. Palmer, ED’60, MS’66, Midland, TX
- Robert G. Adams, BN’60, Ankeny, IA
- Marian R. (Rigdon) Ponder, MSE’60, Newton, IA
- David R. Landswerk, MSE’60, Maple Grove, MN
- Gerald C. Backhaus, BN’60, JD’63, St. Paul, MN
- Robert D. Johnson, BN’61, Albia, IA
- Richard (Dick) Schneider, ED’61, Ames, IA
- Gertrude Mogg, ED’62, Audubon, IA
- Jon E. Batesole, BN’61, West Des Moines, IA
- Charles H. Fry, DV’61, Marshalltown, IA
- Judy Stayduhar, ED’61, Monterey, CA
- Frank B. Robinson, MSE’62, Gaithersburg, MD
- Gerald P. Hagen, MSE’62, Grinnell, IA
- Nancy R. Stankewicz, ED’62, Appleton, WI
- Claud Saunders, LA’62, MA’64, Columbia, MO
- Rollin J. Pochop, BN’62, Lee’s Summit, MO
- Janet J. Wollenhaupt, MSE’62, Des Moines, IA
- Stephen L. Ummel, LA’63, Skidaway Island, GA
- Corliss H. Klaassen, PH’64, West Des Moines, IA
- Ronald Duane Christ, BN’65, The Woodlands, TX
- Joan S. Krga, JO’65, Lake Forest, IL
- Jean L. Pillers, ED’65, MSE’68, West Des Moines, IA
- Dorothy A. Miller, LA’65, MSE’75, Ames, IA
- Dolores Waldon, ED’66, Clarion, IA
- Leota I. Broyles, ED’66, MSE’72, Altoona, IA
- Rex Browning, MSE’66, Athens, TX
- Eugene A. Hess, MSE’66, Saint Paul, MN
- Virginia J. Richards, FA’67, Seneca, SC
- Jerome L’Estrange, ED’67, Buena Vista, CO
- William Wilson, MSE’67, Newton, KS
- Victoria King Smith, ED’67, Foxborough, MA
- Larry L. Watkins, JO’67, MS’70, Des Moines, IA
- Audrey M. Johnson, ED’68, Des Moines, IA
- Emma J. Blank, ED’68, MSE’74, West Des Moines, IA
- Frank Charvat, PH’69, Suamico, WI
- Charles S. Greenwood, MSE’69, Clive, IA
-
1970s
Ronald L. German, BN’70, Norwalk, IA
- Jerry M. Wadden, LA’61, MA’70, Des Moines, IA
- Cloyce D. Palmer, MBA’70, Cape Coral, FL
- Beverly Hook, LA’70, Des Moines, IA
- Marie E. Cardamone, MSE’71, Des Moines, IA
- Gerald F. Kelch, FA’71, Windsor, CT
- Nancy Lynn Sohl, ED’72, Fishers, IN
- Patricia Watson, ED’72, Algona, IA
- John A. Bruggen, MBA’72, Overland Park, KS
- Robert D. Klocksiem, JO’72, Las Vegas, NV
- Douglas Allen, LA’73, Evanston, IL
- Verne H. Tanner, BN’73, Ames, IA
- Dolores G. Fortner, ED’73, MSE’88, Pleasantville, IA
- Frank H. Teske, MAT’73, Pleasant Hill, IA
- Pearl Legler, ED’74, Walnut, IA
- David G. Hiscox, BN’74, Berkeley Heights, NJ
- Betty Lavon Grandquist, LA’74, Des Moines, IA
- Helen L. Bothwell, ED’74, Des Moines, IA
- Beatrice Beyerhelm, MSE’74, Iowa City, IA
- Robert M. Dardas, LA’74, Sarasota, FL
- David Wesley Calton, PH’74, Waterloo, IA
- Arbella Jetter, ED’74, Altoona, IA
- Wibert Caswell, LA’74, Des Moines, IA
- Ruth (Reynolds) Jacobsen DeVries, LA’74, MSE’80, West Des Moines, IA
- Cynthia J. Brandt, ED’75, Floyd, VA
- James L. Bush, MBA’75, Des Moines, IA
- Jan E. Rowley, LA’75, Omaha, NE
- Bonnie L. Weaver, JO’76, Tulsa, OK
- Abraham D. Sommerville, LA’76, Des Moines, IA
- Margaret H. Torruella, LA’77, MS’82, Des Moines, IA
- Anne E. Izzolena, LA’77, Des Moines, IA
- Sharon A. Murphy, LA’79, Des Moines, IA
-
1980s
Robert E. Sullivan, LA’81, Des Moines, IA
- Lois K. Banse, MS’81, Vinton, IA
- Herbert J. Schwartz, MGS’81, Windsor Heights, IA
- William Howard Bish, JO’82, Westlake, OH
- Sandra Kay Richter, MS’82, Tempe, AZ
- Meryl A. Bullard, MPA’83, Woodbridge, VA
- Michael K. Botts, JD’83, Des Moines, IA
- Eleanor Thompson, MS’84, Derry, NH
- Wayne B. Halling, MSE’84, EdS’88, Spencer, IA
- Linda A. Michaels, PH’85, Hackensack, NJ
- Susan K. Seidenfeld, MSE’88, Des Moines, IA
- Donna J. Elgin, MS’88, Urbandale, IA
- Brian K. Sissel, JD’89, Cedar Rapids, IA
-
1990s
Bill F. Fowler, JD’90, San Antonio, TX
- Gerald R. Anderson, Jr., JO’92, Wayzata, MN
- Marilyn J. Koehler, EdD’93, Marion, KS
- Jody A. Gray, MSE’96, EdS’01, West Branch, IA
- David J. Moermond, MPA’98, Urbandale, IA
-
2000s
Matthew Eslick, AS’02, JD’05, St. Paul, MN
- Emily A. Fey, JD’04, Milwaukee, WI
- Kelsey J. MacGibbon, JO’04, Prior Lake, MN
Weddings
February 16, 2024
Alliyah C. (Greaver) Blakely, AS’17, and Randy Blakely,
May 18, 2024
Lauren C. Selfridge, JO’20, and Charles Martens Carlson,
June 8, 2024
Births
Drake Cruise
Bill Caldbeck, BN’70, and Diane Caldbeck, ED’72, enjoy a view of the Mendenhall Glacier during a Drake Alumni cruise through Alaska.
Achievements
-
1950s
Elaine (Graham) Estes, BN’53, Des Moines, IA, was named one of the 10 Iowans of the Day at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.
-
1960s
Lyle L. Simpson, LA’60, JD’63, Des Moines, IA, published the 4th edition of his book, Fully Human/Fully Alive.
- Frank M. Vaia, JO’67, Des Moines, IA, was honored as a 2024 “Friend of Literacy” recipient at the 2024 Iowa Author Awards by the Des Moines Public Library Foundation.
-
1970s
John D. Lloyd, LA’71, JD’74, Clive, IA, was recognized by the Iowa State Bar Association (ISBA) for 50 years of service in law.
- Gary G. Kimes, JD’74, Osceola, IA, was recognized by the Iowa State Bar Association (ISBA) for 50 years of service in law.
- Randy R. Peterson, JO’74, Pleasant Hill, IA, retired from the Des Moines Register after a 52-year career as a sportswriter and had the Iowa Cubs stadium’s press box named after him at Principal Park in honor of the decades of coverage he’s provided to central Iowa sports.
- Gerard D. Neugent, JD’75, Des Moines, IA, was announced as one of seven listed in DSM Magazine’s 2024 Sages Over 70.
- Bobbretta M. (Williams) Brewton, MSE’75, EdS’78, EdD’81, Des Moines, IA, was announced as one of seven listed in DSM Magazine’s 2024 Sages Over 70.
-
1980s
Ron J. Snow, PH’80, Carmel, IN, was honored with the Bowl of Hygeia Award from the Indiana Pharmacy Association.
- Robin Spaulding, BN’80, Round Rock, TX, joined CLARA Analytics as Chief Insurance Officer.
- John J. Forbes, PH’80, Urbandale, IA, is serving his sixth and final term in the Iowa House of Representatives (District 44).
- Jann E. Freed, MBA’81, Des Moines, IA, was honored as a 2024 Woman of Influence at the 2024 Women of Influence Awards by the Des Moines Business Record.
- Linda H. (Wechler) Settler, LA’81, Milwaukee, WI, has been employed with ABCD (After Breast Cancer Diagnosis) as a Match Specialist to facilitate customized matches between patients, survivors, people living with metastatic disease, or caregivers and a breast cancer survivor/Mentor.
- Jill N. Steiner, BN’82, Springfield, IL, was awarded the HR Lifetime Achievement award by the Central Illinois Chapter – Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
- Lisa B. Ryan, BN’83, Lafayette, CA, has been named Chief Marketing Officer of the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
- Libby A. (Swanson) Jacobs, MPA’86, Des Moines, IA, was elected as Chair of the Taxpayers Association of Central Iowa’s Board of Directors.
- Cathryn L. (Wiltfong) Lacy, MPA’86, Des Moines, IA, was awarded the Medal of Excellence by the Kansas State University Foundation.
- Frederick W. James, JD’87, Des Moines, IA, was elected as Foundation President for the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA).
- Jerry Wollmering, BN’87, Kirksville, MO, was named the Senior Associate Athletic Director/Chief Financial Officer for the University of Northern Iowa (UNI).
- Thomas N. Bower, JD’87, Cedar Falls, IA, has retired as Chief Judge of the Iowa Court of Appeals.
- Adam Gerol, JD’88, Port Washington, WI, was appointed as Ozaukee County Circuit Court Judge by Wisconsin Governor, Tony Evers.
- Jeffrey D. Lorenzen, MBA’89, Des Moines, IA, has been promoted to CEO of American Equity Investment Life Holding Co.
-
1990s
Catherine A. Hogan, AS’90, Minneapolis, MN, was promoted to Partner at Boulay Financial Advisors, LLC.
- Jennifer L. Fitzgerald, BN’90, Iowa City, IA, retired as Special Assistant to the Women’s Basketball Head Coach for the University of Iowa.
- Stephen A. Funk, ’91, Lakewood, CO, was selected for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who.
- Joseph R. Dunham, MBA’91, Bondurant, IA, won the 2024 Ernst & Young’s (EY) Entrepreneur of the Year Heartland Award.
- Stephen W. Dittmore, JO’91, MA’96, Avon Lake, OH, was named Dean of the College of Education and Human Services at the University of North Florida.
- Johnny C. Taylor, MA’91, JD’92, Alexandria, VA, was named by Savoy Magazine as one of the 300 Most Influential Executives in Corporate America for 2024 and one of the Most Influential People Shaping Public Policy in our nation’s capital by Washingtonian Magazine.
- Heidi E. (Sease) Nebel, JD’92, Johnston, IA, was recognized in the IAM Patent 1000: The World’s Leading Patent Professionals for her over 30 years of experience and expertise in patent law, IP design strategy, and in the biotechnology, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
- Jeffrey A. Ziesman, JD’92, Shawnee, KS, has been hired by Norton Rose Fulbright as a partner in its regulatory, investigations, securities, and compliance practice.
- Kevin J. Fields, MBA’92, Iowa City, IA, was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of KENT Corp.
- Daniel J. Cosgrove, JD’92, Urbandale, IA, was named Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Benson Hill, Inc.
- Proctor K. Lureman, AS’92, MBA’96, Des Moines, IA, has been hired as President and CEO of Broadlawns Medical Center.
- Cain A. Hayes, BN’92, Waban, MA, has been named one of Savoy Magazine’s 2024 Most Influential Executives in Corporate America.
- Natali J. (Justiniano) Pahl, MBA’92, Des Moines, IA, was honored as an Ally Honoree at the 2024 dsm magazine LGBTQ Legacy Leader Awards.
- Albert S. Womble, AS’94, West Des Moines, IA, was honored as the 2024 West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.
- Jeremy J. Glenn, BN’94, Chicago, IL, was named to the 2023 list of Notable Leaders in Employment and Labor Law by Crain’s Chicago Business magazine.
- Ezra Hendrickson, BN’94, was named head coach of the national football (soccer) team for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF).
- Carol A. (Denter) Bodensteiner, MA’96, Des Moines, IA, was recognized as a 2024 LIVE UNITED Leader by the United Way of Central Iowa.
- Marcelle M. Haddix, ED’96, Syracuse, NY, has been named Dean of the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Education.
- Michael E. Philips, AS’96, Urbandale, IA, published a children’s book titled “The Ice Cream Tree.”
- Timothy R. Coonan, AS’96, JD’02, Des Moines, IA, has been named Vice President of Hubbell Realty Co.
- Justin D. Young, MBA’96, Westminster, CO, was named Chief Financial Officer of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR).
- Elizabeth Higgins-Beard, AS’98, Wheaton, IL, was commended by the British American Business Council Chicago with an Impact Award for her work leading The Duke of Edinburgh’s Int’l Award.
- Sherry D. Coley, AS’97, Appleton, WI, was named to the Board of Directors of New North Inc, the regional economic development corporation for the 18 counties of Northeast Wisconsin.
- Chris E. Heim, MBA’97, Minneapolis, MN, was named joint CEO of Atomic Data and Foundation Technologies.
- Judi K. Luther-Roland, MAT’97, EdS’04, Waukee, IA, was named Principal of Waukee High School.
- Edward W. Bull, AS’98, JD’01, Pleasantville, IA, was promoted to Deputy Attorney General for Agency Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General of Iowa.
- James E. Voos, AS’99, Cleveland, OH, was elected President of the NFL Physicians Society (NFLPS).
- Kimberly S. Grzywacz, MSE’99, Huxley, IA, CIT Signature Transportation (family-owned business) was awarded a Service Excellence-Large Market Award from the Iowa Travel Industry Partners (iTIP).
- Cory S. Claussen, AS’99, Washington, D.C., was promoted to VP of Federal Affairs in FINRA’s Office of Government Affairs.
-
2000s
Zachary W. Stassen, BN’00, Denver, CO, was announced as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Neuros Medical, Inc.
- Amy C. Zynda, PharmD’01, Green Bay, WI, was promoted to Clinical Pharmacist, Night Shift Senior at Advocate Aurora Healthcare.
- Amanda J. Weber, PharmD’02, Winona, MN, started a new position as the National Field Medical Strategy Lead – Genitourinary Oncology at Pfizer.
- Marc A. Reed, AS’02, Stow, OH, was announced as the Director of the School of Music and Professor of Music for Texas Christian University (TCU).
- Abigail K. Shimon, PharmD’02, Coppell, TX, earned the AMCP Spirit of Volunteerism Award.
- Kassie M. (Sloss) Maroney, BN’03, Hinsdale, IL, was named Senior Vice President and Chief Actuary for Blue Shield of California.
- Derek K. Stocking, BN’03, Des Moines, IA, was appointed Chief Financial Officer of Ag Express Electronics.
- Nicole M. Proesch, JD’04, Ankeny, IA, was named a shareholder in the law firm of Dickinson, Bradshaw, Fowler & Hagen P.C.
- Arthur M. Sathoff, EdS’04, Pella, IA, was named Interim Superintendent of Prairie City Monroe Community School District.
- Sarah K. (Schnorr) Bow, PharmD’04, Centennial, CO, was appointed President of the Colorado Pharmacists Society.
- Donna K. (McMahon) Bothwell, JD’05, Sterling, CO, was appointed as District Judge in Iowa Judicial District 4 by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds.
- Melissa Odorzynski, PharmD’05, Tampa, FL, was named a 2024 BusinessWoman of the Year honoree by the Tampa Bay Business Journal.
- Scott J. (Belcher) Pellegrino, AS’05, Saint Louis, MO, earned his master’s degree in History from Harvard University.
- Kelly (Sinnott) Crosby, JO’06, Ankeny, IA, was honored as a member of the 2024 Class of 40 Women to Watch in Hospitality by the Iowa Restaurant Association.
- Lee L. Hulsebus, AS’06, JO’06, Rolfe, IA, was named a shareholder in the law firm of Dickinson, Bradshaw, Fowler & Hagen P.C.
- Noreen (Bush) Otto, JD’06, Newton, IA, was honored as a member of the 2024 Class of 40 Women to Watch in Hospitality by the Iowa Restaurant Association.
- Clara Chaplin, AS’07, Des Moines, IA, was honored as a member of the 2024 Class of 40 Women to Watch in Hospitality by the Iowa Restaurant Association.
- Bradley M. Strouse, JD’08, Cedar Falls, IA, was named to the Board of Directors of First Bank Waverly.
- Nicole J. Cannon, MAT’08, West Des Moines, IA, has been selected to participate in the Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) program in summer 2024 at Iowa State University.
- Joseph L. Jones II, MPA’08, PhD’21, Windsor Heights, IA, received the Leadership for Iowa Award from the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation.
- Praveen V. Bannikatti, MAT’08, Des Moines, IA, was appointed Principal at the Virtual Campus of Des Moines Public Schools.
- Eric M. Sundermeyer, EdS’09, Pleasant Hill, IA, was announced as the new Interim Director of Student Services for the Ames Community School District.
-
2010s
Leslie D. (Place) Merriman, MPA’10, Norwalk, IA, was named Human Resources Manager at Norwalk Community School District.
- Kudakwashe D. Mnangagwa, BN’11, Chicago, IL, was appointed Deputy Minister of Finance and Investment Promotion in the Zimbabwean Presidential Cabinet by his father, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
- Renee A. (Flack) Gelfond, MSE’11, Ankeny, IA, was appointed Principal of Moore Elementary School in the Des Moines Public Schools.
- Andrew P. Werling, MSE’12, Muscatine, IA, was named the 2024 Iowa Assistant Secondary Principal of the Year from the School Administrators of Iowa.
- Erik M. Lundy, MPA’12, Des Moines, IA, has been promoted to Department Deputy Director for the City of Des Moines.
- Mariah E. (Brandt) Hollabaugh, PharmD’13, MBA’13, Steedman, MO, earned the Certified Pharmacy Executive Leader (CPEL) credential from the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP).
- Benjamin Simons, BN’13, Cadillac, MI, hosted a two-day basketball youth camp in his hometown of Cadillac, MI.
- Nathan J. Verlinden, PharmD’13, Phoenix, AZ, started a new position as Clinical Pharmacy Specialist – Internal Medicine at Banner Health.
- Amy L. Gulling, MSE’13, Urbandale, IA, has been announced as a member of the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Urbandale class of 2025.
- Michael L. Gossen, MSE’13, New London, IA, has been appointed Principal of Cowles Montessori School in Des Moines Public Schools.
- Madeline K. Judge, AS’13, Waukee, IA, joined the full-time chorus of the German opera company Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsoper).
- Merrie E. Frentress, MPA’14, Clive, IA, has been employed at West Virginia University as a Compliance and Training Specialist.
- Ryan R. Roy, MS’15, Pleasant Hill, IA, received and was recognized as the first recipient of a new Faculty/Staff award: the Student Success Impact Award in Spring 2023 at Grand View University.
- Elizabeth A. Olivera, BN’15, Chicago, IL, was recognized with a “Rising Stars” Award from the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) for her pro bono efforts as an Associate in Cozen O’Connor’s Immigration Practice helping to ensure immigrants access to justice.
- Matthew D. Blake, JD’15, Urbandale, IA, has been hired as an Of Counsel Attorney and named a shareholder in the law firm of Dickinson, Bradshaw, Fowler & Hagen P.C.
- Samuel H. Huff IV, JD’15, Eldridge, IA, has been named by Davenport City Hall as the city’s new attorney.
- Laura Book, JD’15, workforce and public safety policy advisor to Governor Reynolds since July 2022, will expand her role to include additional responsibilities as deputy legislative liaison.
- Karla Y. Long, MPA’16, Des Moines, IA, has been named the recipient of the staff 2024 Inclusive Excellence Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University.
- Mason Mauro, JO’16, Sacramento, CA, has joined Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds’ Office of the Governor as Deputy Communications Director and Press Secretary.
- Danielle A. (Peters) Tomkowitz, AS’16, MPA’19, Washington, D.C., has been hired as Associate Director of Regional Advancement, DC Metro, for The College of William & Mary.
- Tina G. Yin Sowatzke, PharmD’16, JD’18, Ankeny, IA, has a new role as Intellectual Property Counsel at General Mills, Inc.
- Dylan M. DeClerck, BN’16, Urbandale, IA, was selected to represent Team USA at the 2024 World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) World Ultimate Championships (WUC).
- Alyssa A. Zipperer, BN’16, Cedar Rapids, IA, was promoted to Associate Director of Social Media and Influencer Marketing at Anthologic.
- Kalese M. (Henry) Sheldahl, MS’17, Waukee, IA, has been named a member of the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Urbandale class of 2025.
- Tyler S. Patton, MPA’18, Des Moines, IA, fulfilled his lifelong goal by appearing on the nationally syndicated game show Jeopardy.
- Kyle W. Roeder, AS’18, Urbandale, IA, has been employed as a Software Engineer at Nelnet, Inc.
- Jacob M. Kiel, BN’19, JD’23, Peoria, IL, has been hired as a Divorce and Family Lawyer with Stange Law Firm.
- Kaitlin M. Sickles, AS’19, BN’19, Waukee, IA, has been promoted to Senior Solutions Consultant at Zirous.
-
2020s
McKenna L. Haase, ’20, Des Moines, IA, will be sponsored by Interstate Batteries in twelve sprint car races this season.
- Kollin H. Crompton, JO’20, Council Bluffs, IA, is joining the Republican Governors Association as rapid response director.
- Rachelle L. Keck, PhD’20, Urbandale, IA, was honored as a 2024 Woman of Influence at the 2024 Women of Influence Awards by the Des Moines Business Record.
- Jasmine D. Brooks, MA’21, Waukee, IA, has been hired as Executive Director of the 6th Avenue Corridor Neighborhood Main Street Program.
- Alexander Rogers, AS’21, Greenfield, WI, has been hired as a Football Analyst by the Tennessee Titans.
- Elizabeth K. (Orput) Regan, PharmD’21, Des Moines, IA, started a new position as Senior Network Enablement Specialist at Outcomes.
- Haeri Lee, ED’22, Buffalo Grove, IL, won the Illinois Women’s State Amateur Golf Championship and qualified for the U.S. Women’s Amateur Golf Championship.
- Garrett Sturtz, BN’22, Waukee, IA, was hired as Director of Men’s Basketball Operations by West Virginia University.
- Zoe A. Hauptmann, MSE’22, MSE’23, Urbandale, IA, was appointed Principal of McKee Education Center in Des Moines Public Schools.
- Isaac K. Basten, BN’23, Des Moines, IA, joined the professional Boston Athletic Association (BAA) High Performance Team.
- Stephanie R. Mishler, EdD’23, Ottumwa, IA, has been hired as Superintendent of the Central DeWitt School District.
- Sneha L. Cyriac, PharmD’23, MBA’23, Vernon Hills, IL, has been hired as the Associate Director – Neuroscience Medical Affairs Project Manager at Eli Lilly and Company.
- Endylion L. Strohman, JD’23, Des Moines, IA, has joined Dickinson, Bradshaw, Fowler & Hagen, P.C. as an Associate Attorney.
- Morgan Lind, ED’24, Des Moines, IA, has been hired as an English teacher at Perry High School.
- Dr. Erlin Kakkand, PhD’24, West Des Moines, IA, was honored as the DEI Ally of the Year at the 2024 DEI Awards from the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce.
Alumni Degree Recognition Update
Undergraduate degree abbreviations
Madeline Judge, AS’13, is currently a company member with Irish National Opera. In the fall, she is joining the full-time chorus of the Bavarian State Opera company, one of the world’s most renowned and biggest opera companies, where she will be one of few Americans.
Gifts for Bulldogs: Your Drake-Inspired Holiday Guide
For the Little Bulldogs:
For the Die-Hard Fans:
For the Golf Enthusiasts:
Ask Griff
Introducing a new advice column
We might be biased, but we think Dear Abby might be getting a run for her money. Have a question for Griff II? Send him a note at alumni@drake.edu. He’ll pick questions to answer in each issue. Just remember. He’s a very smart dog. But still a dog. So only the most complex life questions, please.
Ask Griff
Introducing a new advice column
We might be biased, but we think Dear Abby might be getting a run for her money. Have a question for Griff II? Send him a note at alumni@drake.edu. He’ll pick questions to answer in each issue. Just remember. He’s a very smart dog. But still a dog. So only the most complex life questions, please.
I have some questions. Are you happy where you are? If so, stay. If not, go. Don’t overcomplicate it, my friend. Your happiness is everything.
“Dear Griff, my partner and I can’t agree on whether to adopt another dog. What should we do?”
Obviously get the dog. I’m surprised this is even a question.
“Dear Griff, how do I balance work, play, and treats?”
I’m a firm believer in doing whatever your heart desires in the moment. If your heart says you need more snacks, get yourself some more snacks! If it says you need a snooze, take a snooze! And if it says you need to work, ask again, because that sounds like nonsense.
“Dear Griff, I love running but can’t stick with it. Any tips?”
I don’t think I am the right dog to ask about this. It’s no secret that I only run when I’m being chased–or in hot pursuit of a snack.
Make your decision based on the way the city makes you feel. Choose the one that makes you feel alive, accepted, happy, and welcome.
“Dear Griff, what’s the secret to happiness?”
I mean, for me, it’s snacks and snoozes, Bulldogs and butt scratches. It’s also just embracing each day and whatever happens with humor and love.
“Dear Griff, how do I handle family drama during the holidays?”
Try to stay above the fray, my friend. Change the subject to something like the weather, or how delicious the turkey and stuffing was. And when all else fails, pull up my social media. Talk about a neutral subject!
“Dear Griff, how do I make my home as cozy as a dog bed in winter?”
Well, I highly recommend parking yourself directly in front of the most productive heat vent in the house, and moving for nothing short of meal time.
Nothing would make his Bulldog heart happier than if you draw a little paw on your calendar for March 6-7, 2025 and get ready to join your fellow Bulldogs.
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