Meet the Next Generation of Academic Leaders
Meet the Next Generation of
Drake University is entering a new chapter of leadership across several academic units, as deans concluded distinguished tenures and new leaders stepped forward to build on their strong foundations. Keep an eye out for their contributions in the next issue of Blue!
Jerry Anderson,
Drake Law School
Having previously served as the dean of the Law School from 2016-2024, Anderson is stepping back in to serve a one-year term as interim dean, succeeding outgoing Dean Roscoe Jones while a national search commences for the school’s next permanent dean. During his previous tenure as dean, Anderson led transformative growth at the Law School, elevating its national profile and expanding practical learning opportunities. Under his leadership, the Law School’s endowment grew by 44%, and he oversaw the launch of impactful programs, including the Law School’s Refugee Clinic.
Natalie Bayer,
College of Arts and Sciences
Bayer—a professor of history and experienced administrator—has a proven track record of working collaboratively and transparently on behalf of faculty, staff, and students, with a fierce commitment to outcomes. She served as associate dean for student affairs from 2018 to 2024 and has been appointed to a one-year term as dean while a national search commences for the College’s next permanent dean. Bayer succeeds Dean Gesine Gerhardt, who has led the College since 2019 and was instrumental in many important initiatives, including establishing new endowed professorships and launching international degree programs in China and Panama.
Kelly Bruhn,
School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Since joining Drake in 2009, Bruhn has demonstrated a deep commitment to student-centered learning, innovative program development, and excellence in the classroom. She was named the 2022 Madelyn M. Levitt Mentor of the Year, served as interim dean from 2023 to 2024, and led the SJMC through a successful reaccreditation process. She succeeds Dean Catherine Staub, who concluded a nearly 40-year connection to the University while leaving behind a legacy to be felt by generations of students.
Hope Bibens,
Cowles Library
Since joining Drake in 2014, Bibens has served as associate professor of librarianship, associate dean, and director of University Archives and Special Collections. She succeeds Dean Teri Koch, who served our campus community for nearly 40 years, helping to build a vibrant hub that continues to inspire learning, collaboration, and discovery.