The Spirit of Giving
How philanthropy helps Drake change the world — one grad at a time.
PRESIDENT: Dr. David E. Maxwell
“Ultimately
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Debra Lukehart, JO’89
distinctlyDrake is
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Courtney Hartman
an affair of the
EDITORIAL STAFF Danny Akright, JO’10; Jill Brimeyer; Elizabeth Ford, JO’07; Abbie Hansen, JO’01; Aaron Jaco, AS’07, JO’07; Lisa Lacher; Tory Kay Thaemert, JO’05; Tim Schmitt, GR’08, ‘10; Sherry Speikers, GR’93
heart more than the mind.”
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Megan Griffith, Calee Himes, Shelly Mootz
From the President
DIGITAL MEDIA Danny Akright, JO’10; Elizabeth Ford, JO’07; Calee Himes; Aaron Jaco, AS’07, JO’07; Jeremy Sievers; Tim Schmitt, GR’08, ‘10
This is a moment in Drake’s history that provides an unprecedented opportunity to move the University toward its future. On October 1, we announced the launch of distinctlyDrake, an appropriately ambitious
To submit news or update your alumni profile, contact Drake’s Office of Alumni and Parent Relations.
fundraising campaign focused on achieving our vision of the University’s future. distinctlyDrake is
Call: 1-800-44-DRAKE, x3152
driven primarily by a collective vision for the University — an aspirational and exciting picture of what Drake must be in the coming years in order to continue to fulfill the promise of our mission; manage the challenges ahead; remain vital, vibrant and resilient; and lead the way for higher education as a model for the very best. It is a vision of a University with a strong focus on the integration of the best of liberal arts and sciences education with professional preparation, connecting the world of the classroom and laboratory with the world of practice. It is a vision of a University that emphasizes the importance of the personal and professional development of our students. It is a vision that recognizes that our students must be engaged global citizens who are prepared to move comfortably and effectively
E-mail: alumni.update@drake.edu Surf: www.alumni.drake.edu
Drake Blue is published as a service to Drake alumni, parents and friends by the Drake University Office of Marketing and Communications. Views expressed in Drake Blue do not necessarily reflect opinions of the editors or the University. We welcome articles by and story ideas from and about Drake alumni. Send correspondence to: Tim Schmitt, Drake University, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311-4505. E-mail: marketing@drake.edu
among many diverse cultures in both their personal and professional lives. Through this vision and the University’s Strategic Plan, we have identified the steps that we must take to make what we have outlined a reality. But it will take significant additional resources to make it all happen. In the coming weeks, information will be available that details the specific
FOLLOW US: www.drake.edu/magazine
priorities of the campaign, including endowment for faculty positions, student scholarships and interdisciplinary academic centers, as well as capital projects that are essential to the exceptional
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learning environment promised by our mission statement. Ultimately, distinctlyDrake is an affair of the heart more than the mind. In our years at Drake, it has become clear to Maddy and me that our alumni and friends are passionate in their various connections to the Drake experience, grateful for the opportunities that it provides and thankful for the ways in which it shapes lives. I invite you to indulge that passion as you respond to my request for your support and collaboration and do all that you possibly can to make dreams come true for generations of students to come.
Dr. David E. Maxwell, President
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FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ drakeuniversity TWITTER: www.twitter.com/ drakeuniversity FLICKR: www.flickr.com/drakeu
Features
Departments
11
4 Community Leadership
Beyond the Jersey
Lessons from sports are as valuable off the playing field as they are on it.
Defined by Commitment
15
Changing the world
16
A Drake alumnus works to make the world of higher education an accessible, better place.
A look at the reality and challenges of creating an exceptional campus environment.
10 athletic excellence 12 Alumni connections 22 portfolio 24 Drake Notes
Copyright Drake University 2010
communityleadership
Recently renovated Hubbell North reopened as the Quad Creek Cafe and Spike’s Spot. New dining options are available on the upper level, while the lower level features a convenience store, conference rooms and numerous other amenities.
Not Just a Lunchroom Anymore
and furnishings, which were selected to reflect the look of the original
A $5 million renovation has transformed vacant, outdated rooms on the
dining hall designed by Eero Saarinen, renowned architect of the St. Louis
north side of Hubbell Dining Hall into a contemporary student gathering
Gateway Arch.
place offering opportunities for dining, socializing and recreation. The Student Senate first proposed the renovation, which incorporates
in the late 1940s. After Eliel died in 1950, Eero completed the project,
students’ suggestions for new dining options on the upper level, including
giving Drake nine buildings — including the Quad Residence Halls —
a grill; stations for smoothies, pizza, subs and salads; Mexican food;
designed in the Saarinens’ distinctive modern industrial style.
and Asian/international dishes. The lower level features a convenience store, three conference rooms
“We did our best to match the original brick and wood, even the color of the floor tile — anything that would reinforce the same spirit
and numerous amenities — large flat-screen TVs, a pool table, and Wii
that the Saarinens created in Hubbell Dining Hall,” said project architect
and PlayStation 3 game stations.
Dan Sloan, FA’75, of Baldwin White Architects.
“The whole project is very functional, and the student-centered
The hall is named after the late Grover Hubbell, longtime member
design offers so many things students can take advantage of,” says
and former president of the Drake University Board of Trustees.
Samantha Haas, student body president.
The renovation project was made possible by gifts and pledges from
Taking into consideration the University’s commitment to become as “green” as possible, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) principles were applied during construction. The 18,500-square-foot renovated space contains high-recycled content in building materials
4
Saarinen’s father, Eliel, developed a master plan for campus expansion
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the Hubbell family, Hubbell Realty Co. and the Windsor Charitable Foundation, along with funding from Sodexo, Inc.
leadershipprofile
to be literate For adults who can’t read, the dedication of Anne Murr and her team of volunteers is invaluable. For decades Jerry Schillinger rode his route with a partner. But when garbage pickup was automated, only one driver was needed per truck. That meant Schillinger had to read street signs and fill out vehicle reports — things he had relied on his partner to handle for more than 30 years. “The inability to read affects every area of a person’s life,” says Anne Murr, coordinator of the Drake University Adult Literacy Center. “However, this is a minority that doesn’t speak out.” In fact, most low-literate adults don’t seek help until prompted by a crisis, much like the one Schillinger experienced. CONTINUING COMMITMENT The Drake University Adult Literacy Center was founded in 1976 with a grant from the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Though the grant ended, volunteers have kept the program running. Murr is the only staff member. She coordinates about 80 volunteers who serve more than 100 students every year, making it the largest adult literacy program in the state of Iowa. REAPING THE REWARDS Murr credits the students and volunteers with the center’s success. “It is really the relationships that develop between tutors and students that keep both coming back,” she says. And coming back is essential. As an adult, learning how to read can be slow and arduous; it can take years to learn what a child learns in months. Starting with nine hours of training for the tutors, the process requires tenacity by both tutor and student, who meet once or twice a week. “The need is great. But the rewards are greater,” says Murr. Schillinger has been coming to the Adult Literacy Center for five years. He has progressed from not knowing his letter sounds to his most recent accomplishment — learning to read a menu so he can take his wife out to dinner. — Sherry Speikers, GR’93
For more information about the Drake University Adult Literacy Center, visit www.drake.edu/adultliteracycenter
communityleadership
The Jazz Program’s New Groove Drake’s accomplished jazz program will go uptempo and full swing this November with the opening of the Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center. The $1.5 million facility attached to the Harmon Fine Arts Center includes a performance venue and recording studio with a mural featuring legendary jazz musicians, which wraps around three walls. “The mural circles over the heads of performing students,” says Dan Sloan, FA’75, of Baldwin White Architects. “It’s like having the jazz gods looking down on you.” The 4,600-square-foot center is a gift from retired McDonald’s Corp. Senior Chairman Fred Turner, who attended the University from 1951–53. He met his late wife, Patty, a talented musician, at Drake. The performance venue, named Patty’s Place, honors her memory. “I have dreamed of something like the Turner Jazz Center for years. It is a new chapter for jazz at Drake, and the possibilities are limitless,” says Andrew
The Drake University Jazz Ensemble I completed a whirlwind international tour in July. During its European travels, the ensemble performed at festivals and venues in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and England.
Classen, the inaugural Fred and Patty Turner Professor of Jazz Studies. Turner endowed Classen’s position with a $1 million gift in 2008. At Classen’s suggestion, the center also will feature mementos from legendary trumpet player Jimmy Maxwell, the late father of Drake President David Maxwell. The highlight of the display will be a gold-plated trumpet, inscribed with a personal message of gratitude, which Doc Severinsen presented to Jimmy Maxwell for helping him become the trumpeter and bandleader on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.” After the center opens, Drake will raze the Mainstay, home of the jazz program since 2000, and landscape the site as green space in accordance with the Campus Master Plan.
law students gain insight Supreme Court Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. not only hears compelling arguments but offers them, too. Alito delivered the 12th Dwight D. Opperman Lecture in Constitutional Law on September 30 to a crowd of 1,500 at Drake’s Knapp Center. In addition to his public lecture, Justice Alito participated in a question-and-answer session with law students and faculty, had lunch with Drake Law professors, met with federal judges, and toured Opperman Hall and Law Library. During the private question-and-answer forum, Justice Alito explained methods by which he interprets federal legislation and the United States Constitution. “[Justice Alito] offered Drake law students insight into the everyday practices of the highest court in our country,” says Kevin Bell, a third-year law student and president of the Student Bar Association. Justice Alito’s lecture was made possible by Dwight D. Opperman, LW’51, who endowed the lecture series to recognize the importance of constitutional law to the nation and to enhance its emphasis at Drake Law School. Opperman, Justice Alito says, “has surely been the best of friends both to this University and to the federal judiciary. I speak for all members of the federal judiciary in thanking him sincerely for all he has done.”
Stella Hart, a sophomore saxophonist from Cedar Rapids, IA, blogged about the Jazz I European tour, which included sightseeing in Paris, playing in the North Sea Jazz Festival and visiting the Netherlands while the country’s soccer team played in the finals of the World Cup. Visit www.drakejazz.blogspot.com to learn about the group’s adventures.
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leadershipprofile
When Boardrooms Become Classrooms Des Moines’ CEOs welcome some of Drake’s top business students into their boardrooms. A new College of Business and Public Administration program introduced 22 Drake business students to Des Moines executives in the CEOs’ own environments. Now entering its second year, the CBPA Leadership Council is building on a foundation of developing campus leaders through exposure to top-level executives. LEARNING FROM THE TOP DOGS The council meets bimonthly in the boardroom of participating organizations for lunch, a council discussion and a leadership talk by the host company’s CEO. During its first year, the group met with executives from businesses including Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo, Holmes Murphy and the Davis Brown Law Firm, which provided unparalleled access to their knowledge and experience. “Not only did we, as students, get an opportunity to ask successful individuals about their career decisions, but we also had the opportunity to represent Drake to ensure these businesses continue to help our students prepare for their futures,” says Reed Allen, a senior accounting and management major. “The Des Moines
area is an incredible market for young businesspeople, especially in the insurance field, so this relationship is essential.” A WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE Officers of each of the CBPA’s professional organizations are council members. As a result, student leaders benefit from one another’s knowledge and have the opportunity to expand their sphere of learning into less traditional areas. Larry Zimpleman, BN’73, GR’79, chairman, president and CEO of Principal Financial Group and Drake University Board of Trustees member, hosted the council last year and sees the group as a microcosm of the Drake CBPA curriculum. “Certainly Drake students learn about the traditional subjects, but one of the unique elements of the Drake education is that it allows students to take their education out into the real world,” Zimpleman says. “I think we see this in the Drake students that we hire — they come to the job more understanding about what drives business and how they can become a factor in that.” — Danny Akright, JO’10
communityleadership
A newly refurbished surface — the Ron Pearson Court — was unveiled this fall. It is named for the chairman emeritus of Hy-Vee, who is a Drake alumnus, former trustee and longtime donor. The renovation exemplifies Drake’s continued commitment to exceptional Division I athletics and Hy-Vee’s ongoing dedication to the community. And it’s just the start of what is to come.
MAN vS. THE ADAM EMMENECKER SANDWICH WHAT COULD BRING the Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food” host, Adam Richman, to Des Moines? Jethro’s BBQ and its Adam Emmenecker Sandwich, that’s what. The October 5 episode followed Richman as he attempted the Emmenecker challenge — a dare to down the 5.5-pound sandwich in 15 minutes. So far, only three people — excluding Richman and Emmenecker himself — have succeeded in eating the “gi-normous” sandwich within the time limit. The Emmenecker is named for Drake’s renowned point guard Adam Emmenecker, who led the Drake men’s basketball team to the Missouri Valley Conference Championship and the NCAA Tournament in 2008. The barbecue sandwich was created with Emmenecker’s favorite foods in mind — breaded pork tenderloin, a grilled bacon cheeseburger, Texas brisket and “fried cheese.” All of this and more is piled onto a hamburger bun and served with a side of fries.
admission update The Advantage of the Drake Experience Getting prospective students to visit Drake usually isn’t difficult, and this summer was no exception. Individual campus visits and inquiries were brisk, and the Office of Admission welcomed 482 prospective students to the University during Iowa Private College Week in August. “Our admission operations are proceeding very well, and we are looking to build on last year’s success,” says Tom Delahunt, vice president for admission
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and student financial planning. He notes that 2009 was a record year at Drake for applications, average ACT scores and grade point averages, which resulted in a more selective pool of students. Now that fall has arrived, admission counselors are busy reviewing applications and traveling the country to discuss the advantages of a Drake education at high schools and college fairs. “We are seeing a good flow of prospective students, both on campus and in the field,” says Delahunt. “We’re confident our efforts will provide a large number of quality applicants to consider, come spring.”
leadershipprofile
Advertising-Speak This Drake professor emphasizes communication by stretching classroom boundaries. Dorothy Pisarski, assistant professor of advertising at Drake, knows how to make a point. When she enters the classroom of her newest group of Advertising Principles students, she addresses them in Polish throughout one class period. She persists until they employ gestures to convey their confusion. By then, it’s obvious: Advertising, first and foremost, is about communication. Pisarski understands greatly the need for clarity in communication. She was born and raised in a Polish enclave in Brooklyn, NY. “I arrived for my first day of kindergarten not speaking English,” she says. Those early years laid the groundwork for her key academic interest — studying how culture impacts advertising and branding. LESSON CONTINUALLY LEARNED After completing her MBA at “New York University, Pisarski worked in the fields of advertising and marketing before becoming an educator at the college level. When Pisarski and her family relocated to Iowa six years ago, her move to the heartland brought additional lessons in cultural communication. “When I first arrived at Drake I led with a typical New York sarcastic joke but quickly realized that Iowa students didn’t know how to respond to me,” says Pisarski with a laugh. “So my style is much softer now.” TO THINK BEYOND OURSELVES As an educator, Pisarski strives to bring cultural awareness to her students. She does so by taking them out of their comfort zone. In 2010 she worked with a colleague at Marquette University to include Drake students in a three-week study-abroad opportunity to research global branding in England and the Czech Republic. Students tested their ethnographic skills by conducting field studies in those countries, exploring the Bombay Sapphire showroom in London, the Skoda automobile factory near Prague and through meetings with top ad executives handling these accounts. Pisarski hopes to provide further opportunities to broaden students’ advertising horizons by enhancing an exchange program with Universidad Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, where she visited this past winter. “Advertising is not only about communication but about communicating with all kinds of people with all types of backgrounds,” says Pisarski. “And it’s important to be able to say, ‘This is how it works in theory, but this is how it is in real life.’” — Jill Brimeyer
AthleticExcellence
The Gridiron — It’s for the Families The playing field for Drake football expanded this season. In redefining what it was like to attend a Drake football game, Drake Athletics made some changes. Children age 12 and younger received free admission to all home games. And the North Plaza hosted activities for families. “One of our main goals for Drake football was to create an environment that was conducive to bringing the entire family,” says Dennis Francois, associate athletic director for external affairs. “As a father, I am constantly reminded of the value of family-friendly events. I am confident the efforts of our entire staff will continue to foster this environment as it becomes one that separates us from many of our peers and becomes one of the best values of family entertainment in the area.”
DIGGING DRAKE VOLLEYBALL The 2010 Drake volleyball campaign was a record-setting one — both on and off the court. The team, which opened with a program-best 14–0 mark, held the nation’s best record though its nonconference ledger. In addition, the Bulldogs set a school record for home wins and twice exceeded the single-match attendance record. In the classroom, the team was just as successful. Drake Volleyball was a recipient of the 2009–10 American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award. Drake was the only Division I team in the state to receive the recognition. The award honors collegiate and high school volleyball teams that displayed excellence in the classroom during the academic year by maintaining at least a 3.30 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale. Drake finished the 2009–10 academic year with an impressive 3.5 GPA. This marks the second straight AVCA honor for
Visit www.GoDrakeBulldogs.com for more sports updates.
classroom achievement for Drake.
Coach’s Corner
In addition, transfers Kurt Alexander, Jordan Clarke and Kraidon Woods are
DRAKE MEN’S BASKETBALL OUTLOOK
DRAKE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PREVIEW
Men’s head basketball coach Mark Phelps enters his third year at Drake optimistic
The Drake University women’s basketball team returns three starters from last
after enjoying the top recruiting classes in the Missouri Valley Conference each of
season’s team, including last year’s Best Offensive Player Award winner Kristin Turk
the last two years.
and the Most Improved Player Award winner from last season, Rachael Hackbarth.
Guard Ryan Wedel, who was named to the MVC All-Newcomer Team last year, is
Turk, a senior, averaged 13.4 points and 3.2 rebounds per game last season,
the lone senior on a young roster that features seven sophomores and four freshmen.
while Hackbarth averaged 12.3 points and 5.4 boards. In addition, the top
Wedel is the team’s top returning scorer (11.1 average per game) and ranked
three-point shooters from last season return in Turk (41.6 percent) and junior
second in the MVC in steals last year (1.6 average per game).
Amber Wollschlager (39.8 percent).
Seth VanDeest is one of the rising post players in the league, following his
Drake will welcome three 2010 NCAA Tournament qualifiers to the Knapp
selection to the MVC All-Freshman team while averaging 8.5 points and setting a
Center this season, including in-state rivals Iowa and Northern Iowa and former
freshman school record with 45 blocked shots.
Drake head coach Lisa Stone’s Wisconsin Badgers.
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expected to be impactful players along with freshman Rayvonte Rice.
Athleticprofile
beyond the jersey lessons from sports are as valuable off the playing field as they are on it. When Josh Young, BN’10, graduated from Drake, he took with him more than his status as the University’s career leading scorer and offers to play pro basketball overseas. Rather, he left with valuable leadership skills and an understanding of the importance of giving back to the community. “The Athletics staff takes a holistic view of developing young men and women as students and leaders,” Young says. “Drake teaches young people to excel on the court and also in life.” MORE THAN A GAME Young’s experience mirrors that of many other student-athletes at Drake, and that’s just what Sandy Hatfield Clubb, Drake athletic director, wants. Hatfield Clubb, together with President David Maxwell, has been guiding Drake Athletics’ strategic plan, which calls for the University to provide leadership-based experiences for student-athletes and create a progressive model for intercollegiate sport in higher education. Drake has approved a concentration in leadership that takes campus involvements, like sports, and uses
them as starting points for learning in the classroom. “By taking these lessons learned on the court — analytical and critical thinking, leadership and teamwork — into the boardroom, athletes take an instinctive skill set and translate it into the real world,” says Hatfield Clubb. A HOLISTIC APPROACH Drake also offers a variety of opportunities for student-athletes to give back, which include leading middle school sports clinics and delivering meals to the homeless. And now the University is taking global opportunities such as the men’s football trip to Tanzania, Africa, next May. While there the Bulldogs will play an all-star team from Mexico in the inaugural Global Kilimanjaro Bowl, the first American football game ever played on the continent; lead service projects at an orphanage; and culminate the experience by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. “We want our student-athletes to get a great education, but sport is a significant part of their lives,” Hatfield-Clubb says. “We want to align the whole [athletic] experience to become part of an exceptional learning environment.” — Jill Brimeyer
ALUMNIconnections Bulldog pride is hitting the road. Drake University recently launched its custom collegiate license plate in the state of Iowa.
The official Iowa license plate can
be used on passenger vehicles, trucks, tractors, trailers and travel trailers. Numbered plates cost $25 and personalized plates cost $50. Both have a $5 annual validation fee.
Visit www.drake.edu/licenseplate for more information.
Connecting in Chicago
True Blue Donors
Every relationship has a beginning. And for the Drake Women’s
Our true blue donors have given some green. But the results of their generosity
Connection of Chicago, the starting point is the University. The
far exceed a dollar amount.
group brings together Drake alumnae from various generations
Through the sustaining support of alumni, Drake University has been able
for networking, mentoring and socializing.
to fulfill the promise to provide an exceptional learning environment. And to
“What distinguishes this group is that we are providing value
express appreciation and reinforce the importance of giving back, Drake has
on two levels — valuable content and valuable connections,” says
begun honoring alumni donors for consecutive years of giving.
Debbie Bianucci, chair of the Drake Women’s Connection and CEO
This year, Drake founded The Bonnie and Lewis McNurlen Consecutive Giving
of the Bank Administration Institute in Chicago.
Society to honor continuous donor loyalty. The society was named for the late
The group held its first gathering in downtown Chicago in
couple, Bonnie McNurlen, FA’48, GR’49, FA’66, GR’70, ’85, ’88, a lifelong learner
October. Meetings will be held twice a year and will include a guest
who earned six degrees from Drake; and Lewis McNurlen, AS’48, GR’49, who
speaker, facilitated dialogue and networking opportunities. Diane
chaired Drake’s sociology department from 1957−85.
Caldbeck, associate vice president for alumni and development at
In their six decades of devotion to Drake, the McNurlens tallied 28 years of
Drake, says the intent is that the group leads women to connect
consecutive giving. They began their tradition of giving back to Drake with a
with each other outside of the scheduled meetings.
modest contribution in 1958.
It likely will. Even before the inaugural event, women on the
“This society recognizes all donors who consistently support Drake University,”
planning committee offered one another career advice, assisted
says Pam Pepper, director of development operations and Annual Fund programs.
each other with job searches and formed friendships.
“The McNurlens were a fine example of generous support, and it only seemed
“This is exactly in the spirit of what we hope to do,” says Bianucci.
appropriate to name this society after them. All alumni can join — just make a
Contact Ashley Nichols, ashley.nichols@drake.edu,
gift to Drake each and every year.”
515-271-1947; or Debbie Bianucci, dbianucci@bai.org for more
When a donor reaches a milestone year of consecutive giving (5, 10, 15, 20
information about the Drake Women’s Connection of Chicago.
or 25), Drake will celebrate the donor’s generosity at Thanksgiving time with a token of appreciation and recognition in The Bonnie and Lewis McNurlen Consecutive Giving Society, through which the legacy of the McNurlens will continue.
[Honor] Roll Call Drake has posted our Honor Roll of Donors for 2009−10, which recognizes all alumni, parents, friends and businesses for their generosity over the previous fiscal year. See www.drake.edu/alumni/donors for the full list.
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ALUMNI profile
heart of a bulldog This alumnus transforms the passions of alumni into a brighter future for Drake students. Six years ago, John Smith, AS’92, GR’00, gave his then-7year-old son, Jake, a tour of campus. After wandering along tree-lined walkways, marveling at the vibrant painted street and gorging on the Drake Diner’s famous milkshakes, Jake asked his dad what he did for the University. “I told him that I represent Drake and work to engage our alumni and friends in life on campus,” says the vice president for alumni and development. “I also have the responsibility of turning people’s love for Drake into resources to help us reach our goals. “Jake just nodded and said, ‘Someday, I hope I get to go to Drake.’” A TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE Smith knows well the power of Drake University to change lives. When he first came to campus, Smith was unsure of himself and uncertain of the future. Then in his sophomore year, he found direction through a speech elective. “It changed my focus and built my confidence,” he recalls. “It gave me a passion for words and taught me how to use language to influence and empower.”
FOR THE LOVE OF DRAKE His first job out of college was at Drake — as an admissions counselor. He later left to direct annual giving for the Sigma Chi Foundation, but the road led him and his wife, Mary Kay, FA’91, GR’07, and children, Jake, 13, and Emi, 11, back to Drake. “Here I can make a difference for a vast constituency of alumni and generations of students, and I can help create change that may impact my children and the children and grandchildren of others who care about Drake,” says Smith. He has now added to his responsibilities leadership of the distinctlyDrake campaign. Smith’s role is to rally alumni and friends around the bold vision of the University to be — and be recognized as — one of the very best institutions of higher education in the nation. Smith is well-suited for this position, in his ability to rally those who love Drake around a collective desire to see the University reach its full potential through a culture of philanthropy. “It’s been a 25-year relationship,” says Smith. “And I continue to be shaped by the Drake experience.” — Jill Brimeyer
ALUMNIconnections
Leaving a Lasting Legacy Now there is one more way for Drake graduates to continue to have an impact on the University. And this is one that will last in perpetuity. In 2008 the University established the
Can a love story really change the world? Tell us your love story at www.distinctly.drake.edu
Class Reunion Endowment program through which an endowment fund will be created for each class beginning in its 25th anniversary year. Endowments will be established with gifts from classmates,
For Drake Grads Only A new website designed specifically for Drake graduates is making it easier to connect to the University and each other. The site, launched this fall, gives Drake alumni the opportunity to interact in a secure environment available only to them.
undefined memorial gifts and unrestricted bequests of less than $25,000. Though the corpus of the fund is never spent, its earnings will support the day-to-day
“We know our alumni are incredibly passionate about Drake, and we wanted to give them a tool
operations of the University. Through this
that would help them stay connected to the campus community regardless of where they are in
program each class will leave a lasting
the world,” says John Brown, assistant director of alumni and parent relations.
legacy at Drake.
This year class reunion endowments will be
Through the new online community, alumni can search for and connect with fellow Bulldogs.
Users can log in to create a profile, upload photos, share class notes, and view message boards
established for the classes of 1941, 1946, 1951,
and blogs. And with new online event reservation and payment functions, the site makes it easier
1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981 and 1986.
than ever before to participate in alumni activities. By now you should have received a mailing
that included your username and password. If not, just go to www.alumni.drake.edu and register
of Annual Fund programs, at 515-271-3155
for an account.
with questions regarding the program or to
Contact Emily Weaver, associate director
make a gift.
alumni Calendar 2011
DECEMBER DRAKE VS. COLORADO STATE BASKETBALL Game/postgame party December 1 6 PM Ft. Collins, CO
JANUARY distinctlyDrake: DES MOINES January 14 6:30 PM Temple for the Performing Arts FEBRUARY NATIONAL GAME WATCH Men’s Basketball vs. Northern Iowa February 5 12 PM Visit www.alumni.drake.edu for cities and locations
distinctlyDrake: NAPLES February 17 5:30 PM Moraya Bay Southern California Wine Tasting February 27 4 PM Briar Rose Winery Temecula, CA MARCH distinctlyDrake: PHOENIX March 18 6:30 PM Jokake Inn at the Phoenician Resort
SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON March 25 11:30 AM Reading Room, Cowles Library
30-YEAR CLUSTER REUNION Classes of ’80, ’81 and ’82 April 29–30
APRIL distinctlyDrake: CHICAGO April 8 6:30 PM JW Marriott Chicago
ALL PHARMACY REUNION April 29–30
ALUMNI AWARDS RECEPTION April 28 6:30 PM Reading Room, Cowles Library RELAYS April 28–30 Drake Stadium
For more information and a full listing of all Drake events — including athletics and fine arts events — visit www.alumni.drake.edu
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MAY COMMENCEMENT WEEKEND May 13–14 50-YEAR REUNION May 13–14
ALUMNI profile
defined by commitment A Drake alumnus works to make the world of higher education an accessible, better place. Johnny C. Taylor Jr., GR’91, LW’92, is the father of a newborn daughter, but he’s already responsible for helping nearly 250,000 students pay for their college education. As president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, Taylor helps ensure that money is available for students in 47 public historically Black colleges and universities and six law schools, all of which were created prior to 1964 for the primary purpose of educating African-American students. “I do this because my personal vision is to help change the world one leader at a time,” says Taylor. “That’s my vision for this organization, and that’s why I do what I do.” A PURPOSEFUL PROFESSION Taylor manages 50 employees working in four offices, including dual headquarters in Washington, D.C., and New York. The fund has given $100 million in scholarships and financial aid to students and member institutions over 23 years. Taylor, who became president and CEO in April, estimates 97 percent
of the 235,000 students enrolled in these schools benefit from direct or indirect financial support. “We essentially do three things,” says Taylor, who started his career in Washington, D.C., as a lawyer for several large companies. “We provide scholarships to students, we advocate with the government on issues affecting [historically Black] colleges and universities, and we help our member schools become better academic institutions.” DEDICATED TO MAKING A DIFFERENCE Saying the job requires a lot of travel would be an understatement. Taylor spends two days a week in Washington, D.C., and three days in New York before heading home to Charlotte, NC, on weekends. “When you ultimately know you are truly, truly affecting peoples’ lives,” says Taylor, “it just makes all the difference in the world.” — Aaron W. Jaco, AS’07, JO’07
Changing the World
One Drake Grad at a Time By Tim Schmitt, GR’08, ’10
When Josie Pokorny first came to Drake in 2008 she spent the better part of five minutes traveling a full mile and a half from home to campus. Since then, however, Pokorny has traveled halfway around the world and spent a couple of weeks in Uganda with other Drake students and faculty studying sustainable development. The trip, she says, was nothing short of life-changing. “We visited a primary school and a school for specialneeds children, toured the headquarters of a newspaper and the Ugandan parliament, listened to lectures on entrepreneurship and gender issues in Uganda, went on two safaris and spoke with a farmer,” she recalls.
Third-year student Josie Pokorny with
“There is no way I would have been able to do any of
primary school students in Uganda.
the fantastic things I did on the trip if I had traveled to Uganda by myself.” Those experiences have already had a huge impact on Pokorny’s life. Sure, she still plans to attend medical school. And though she has always dreamed of working with an organization like Doctors Without Borders, she now has another vision as well.
But the Drake experience that fosters this would not be possible were it not for a lot of other people — those who provided funds for scholarships so students like Pokorny could attend Drake; those who donated to the general fund to ensure the highest-quality educational experience
“I think I might refocus my future plans to be involved
possible; and those who provided direct philanthropical
in healthcare-related service work on the needy places
gifts to the University for the creation of special labs,
in America — places that are being a little overshadowed
centers and educational tools.
by foreign service work but are in just as much need,”
This culture of philanthropy is not about money, it’s
she says.
about the love of humankind — the ability to positively affect
To anyone who has met her, there is little doubt that
the lives of others and influence change for the greater good.
Josie Pokorny will have a profound impact on the world.
“I am very fortunate to have won a National Alumni
And in that respect, she is not unique. This type of
Scholarship that not only afforded me the opportunity
passion is evident in the lives of Drake students and
to attend a prestigious private college like Drake but
alumni all over the world. The drive to achieve excellence
also made it easier for me to pursue my dream to go
is a defining characteristic of these individuals. The
to medical school,” Pokorny says. “I’m not sure those who
leadership of Drake alumni is obvious as they continue
give money to Drake realize the great impact their
to learn and grow both professionally and personally
philanthropy has on students’ lives. When you think
throughout their lives, share their experiences with those
about it in terms of the quality of student life at Drake,
around them and continue to shape the world we live in.
philanthropy is huge.”
High-tech labs made available through the donations of alumni and friends translate into opportunities for students.
The Right Time, The Right Place
And, explains Maxwell, in order to keep the promise we’ve made to students and to society at
Make no mistake. Drake University has a huge
large, the University announced in early October
obligation — not only to students like Pokorny
the launch of distinctlyDrake, a comprehensive
and the faculty, staff and alumni who make up
campaign, as the catalyst to ultimately achieve
our community but to the rest of the world.
the vision of the University.
That line in the mission statement about “responsible global citizenship” is not just lip service toward globalization. It’s a promise from the University to provide the best it can to the entire planet — to do nothing less than change the world. “Look at the leadership role we already play,” says Drake President David Maxwell. “We could not have come this far and do what we are already doing without the support we receive from alumni and friends. Ultimately it is all about keeping the promise we’ve made.”
That line in the mission statement about “responsible global citizenship” is not just lip service toward globalization. It’s a promise from the University to provide the best it can to the entire planet — to do nothing less than change the world.
“We have to recognize that in order to continue
with a passionate community committed to providing
fulfilling our mission, we have to acknowledge that
the necessary resources.
everything around us is changing, and we need to make
“Philanthropy inspires and philanthropy transforms,”
sure we keep pace,” says Maxwell.
he adds. “The faculty person is impacted by the
Drake has done an admirable job of anticipating and
philanthropy, and so is the student who learns from
preparing for the changes in technology and in society
the faculty member. But the person giving finds
that affect education and its delivery methods, but the
genuine joy in it as well.”
changes are still coming fast and furious.
Philanthropy at Work
“We have to consider now who the students of the next 20 years are going to be, how they learn and how we can deliver that education to them,” says Maxwell. “The world is dynamic, and we cannot be static. We’ve been extremely strategic and visionary as an institution. We’ve been good at this, but it is not the time to rest on our laurels.”
“We have to acknowledge that everything around us is changing, and we need to make sure we keep pace ... the world is dynamic, and we cannot be static.“ Drake graduates have been changing the world for 130 years, but now, perhaps more than ever, explains Maxwell, the world needs more Drake graduates. Today, he explains, the University is at one of the most vital moments in its history. With established and growing success, the vision of Drake is to be — and be recognized as — one of the very best institutions of higher education in the nation. Certainly, it is a compelling and ambitious goal. But it is one that is attainable. That means Drake must unleash the potential of the best and brightest by providing them with opportunities to excel and ensuring they have the right tools and the
As the Peggy Fisher and Larry Stelter Chair of Magazine Journalism, Lori Blachford has realized firsthand the benefit of philanthropical giving to the University. She is the inaugural chair of the position, which guarantees that the magazine studies program will be a permanent part of the Drake experience. “Our philanthropists recognize that our industry is changing at a record pace,” says Blachford. “Because of that, our students need the right equipment to not only stay current but also to anticipate what’s yet to come.” The School of Journalism and Mass Communication has done this well by experimenting with mobile applications and new information delivery methods while continuing to provide an education based on solid communication skills. And it’s all been done with the latest technology and in high-tech labs made available through the donations of alumni and friends.
“Drake must unleash the potential of the best and brightest by providing them with opportunities to excel and ensuring that they have the right tools and the confidence to use them properly.”
and development. “We can’t achieve this vision with just
This is true across campus. Whether it is cutting-edge laboratories in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, networking events in the College of Business and Public Administration, or centers that encourage multidisciplinary collaboration, philanthropy has made
sound administration, but we can reach our aspirations
it all possible.
confidence to use them properly. “We have a strong vision for the University,” says John Smith, AS’92, GR’00, vice president for alumni
“Philanthropy has provided countless opportunities
Student Travel and Research fund provide students
for our students,” says Raylene Rospond, dean of the
access to conferences, competitions and research
College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. “Gifts
experiences that to us may seem mundane but
for scholarships and the white coat ceremony have
for them are significant, even life-changing.”
connected our entering students with the Drake
Stacey Wilson, JO’10, says the gifts from alumni
pharmacy community and have demonstrated that
and friends to the School of Journalism and Mass
our alumni are engaged in the lives of our current
Communication ensured she not only received a
students. Transformative gifts for facilities have
solid education, but also gained exposure to the
provided the Langford Resources Room, the Mayhew
latest technologies and practices in the real world
Compounding Laboratory and the Davidson Pharmacy
that have helped her in her career.
Practice Laboratory — all state-of-the-art facilities
“As a journalism and graphic design major, having
that support teaching and learning.”
the latest technology at my fingertips was essential,”
“Without professors who know what is happening in the industry and without the technology to learn about it, I would not be employed.” Generous gifts from alumni and friends have also enabled the creation of many endowed chairs, research funds and opportunities for faculty to develop professionally across campus. “The gifts we receive — whether from major benefactors or Annual Fund donations — help to underwrite the exceptional learning environment
says Wilson. “Because we had the fantastic labs and the newest programs we were able to try out new ideas and implement them on all of our projects. Without professors who know what is happening in the industry and without the technology to learn about it, I would not be employed. So the willingness of alumni and others to give back to Drake has already had a huge effect on my short career. “
A Culture of Philanthropy Ensuring that students like Pokorny and Wilson have access to the resources they need to succeed is no easy task. Living up to our full potential will take time, dedication and the commitment of the entire Drake community. And it won’t come simply through the establishment
we strive to provide to our students,” says Joe Lenz,
of one scholarship or another. It will come from a
dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
collective desire for Drake to reach its full potential.
“Sometimes the benefits are visible, like the
This will not be achieved by simply setting and
Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center, presently under
achieving a specific fundraising goal but by the
construction, which will provide a home for our
creation of a continued culture of philanthropy.
Turner Professor of Jazz Studies, Andy Classen; and
“Achieving our vision requires passion, commitment,
the internationally recognized jazz program.
dedication, responsibility and transformation on the
And sometimes the benefits, though less visible,
part of faculty, staff, students and alumni,” explains
are nonetheless palpable: A recent scholarship
Rospond. “Our philanthropic investments of time and
established the means for a student to pursue
resources allowed the Drake of the past to become the
the study of politics. Each year, donations to our
nationally recognized University of today.
State-of-the-art facilities like the Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center (pictured) help Drake fulfill its promise to students of providing an excellent educational experience.
These investments will continue to be necessary for Drake to
faculty, staff and students. It changes the lives of those who receive
become the University of the future.
and those who give. Philanthropy makes a difference: It is the
“Achieving excellence requires continued transformation.
difference between an ordinary university and a distinctive one.”
Philanthropy makes the improbable possible; it makes the impossible real.” And rest assured, this is the vision of the entire Drake community — faculty, staff, students, alumni and others — who
“In a community like Drake one of the best parts is feeling like you’re part of something larger.”
have participated in the discussion of Drake’s future throughout
Wilson says it is this distinctive experience that encourages the
the years and continue to make change and adaptation not only
Drake community to continue giving back and providing opportunities
possible but hallmarks of the Drake experience.
for successive generations of Drake students and alumni.
“Philanthropy makes the improbable possible; it makes the impossible real.”
“In a community like Drake, one of the best parts is feeling like you’re part of something larger,” says Wilson. “Alumni, community members, everyone who donates for scholarships or campus development or computer labs shows they care enough to invest in
“Drake is in great shape thanks to the planning and generosity
the future of students they don’t even know. Understanding I have
of a lot of people, ” says Maxwell. “But like any great institution we
that kind of support whenever I need it is what makes Drake a
have a vision of what is next. It’s about the idea of making this
special place. It says a lot about a University that so many people
collective vision come true. This is what we all want to be.”
care enough to share their time and money with us. I love Drake
“Philanthropy is transformative,” explains Lenz. “It changes
University. And because so many people made my experience so
the landscape at Drake. It changes the campus experience for our
fantastic, I can’t wait until I can give back to that same community.”
October 1, 2010, was unprecedented in the history of Drake University. The focus of this momentous day was the announcement of distinctlyDrake, the campaign that will propel the University toward the ambitious vision to be — and be recognized as — one of the very best institutions of higher education in the nation. The day’s events included the Volunteer Leadership Summit, which brought more than 300 Drake supporters to campus to learn about and become enthusiastic ambassadors for distinctlyDrake. Later that evening the University’s leadership-level donors attended the annual Francis Marion Drake Society Dinner which, this year, closed with a fireworks display on Helmick Commons.
Visit www.distinctly.drake.edu for more information about distinctlyDrake. To view more photos from the Francis Marion Drake Society Dinner and other events, visit www.flickr.com/photos/drakealumnievents
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portfolio
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Achievements 1950
Howard Bennett LA’50, Playa Del Rey, CA, started the organization that later became Heal the Bay to clean up the Santa Monica Bay. Dick Blosser LA’51, Fullerton, CA, was awarded the 2009 Reserve Supervisor of the Year.
Rosalie (Beane) Hermonat FA’61, Pleasant Hill, TN, celebrated 30 years as an ordained minister. Elizabeth (Cline) Cook JO’66, Muscatine, IA, works as the visitor services assistant at the History and Industry Center in Muscatine.
Gary Severson FA’69, Breckenridge, CO, was recognized by both houses of the United States Congress for leadership and achievements in rural Colorado. He is currently serving as a consultant to the USDA Forest Service, building collaborative relationships with local
Changed your career? Published a book? Earned an advanced degree? Drake celebrates the accomplishments of its alumni. If you have family news or career information you’d like to share with the Drake alumni network, visit www.alumni.drake.edu We want to stay connected with you! * Drake Notes is published in each issue of Drake Blue. This issue includes all entries received by July 9, 2010.
William Johnson ED’52, Chicago, traveled to South Africa to participate in his wife’s international project as a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute. Elaine (Graham) Estes BN’53, Des Moines, was inducted into the Iowa African-American Hall of Fame. Ernest Troemel ED’56, Prosser, WA, was re-elected to the Prosser City Council and is the council representative on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Sally (Jensen) Blount FA’58, Des Moines, received the American Horse Council 2009 Van Ness Award.
1960 Gerald Anderson FA’60, Cedar Rapids, IA, sculpted a brick mural, which was dedicated at the History Center in Belle Plaine.
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Devan (Morgan) DeSandis FA’67, Brigantine, NJ, retired 18 months ago and is now traveling around the world.
businesses. Severson retired from the position of executive director of Northwest Colorado Council of Governments.
(Clyde) Edward Hupton FA’68, Yaphank, NY, recorded DVD soundtracks for two silent features restored by the Library of Congress with The Biograph Players.
1970
Donald Kline GR’68, Williamsburg, VA, retired from his position as a historical interpreter at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Hon. Douglas S. Lang BN’69, Dallas, was honored by the Dallas Bar Foundation with the Fellows Award, which is presented to a member of the Dallas Bar Association who has adhered to the highest principles and traditions of the legal profession and who is highly respected by those in the legal profession.
Barry Bloch BN’70, Town and Country, MO, joined the Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation in East St. Louis and works as a probono family-law attorney. Michael J. Jackson ED’70, GR’74, Accokeek, MD, owns a public speaking business, Believe Achieve, LLC, which promotes prostate cancer awareness. Larry James Sr. ED’70, LW’01, Des Moines, was appointed by Gov. Chet Culver to the position of vice chair of the Iowa Board of Parole. Virginia Smith Watkins LA’70 and David Watkins LA’62, Minnetonka, MN, recently celebrated their 50th wedding
anniversary. Virginia Smith Watkins also attended Drake from 1957 through 1960. Joan (Macgillivray) Thompson GR’71, Phoenix, celebrated the acceptance of her etching titled Voyage into the 17th Biennial North American Small Prints Competition at Purdue University Galleries. Gordon Bowles LW’72, Tampa, FL, accepted a position as a financial industry regulatory authority arbitrator. Susan Swanson JO’72, Homewood, IL, is self-employed as a private investigator specializing in wrongful conviction cases. Douglas Allen LA’73, Hawthorn Woods, IL, retired 10 years ago and now focuses on volunteer opportunities through his church and other organizations. Robert Turek LA’73, Adrian, MI, was awarded an honorary doctor of humanities degree from Lourdes College in Toledo, OH. Timothy Franson PH’74, Washington, D.C., was elected president of the United States Pharmacopeial Convention. Joseph DeCarlo JO’75, Tucson, AZ, celebrated his 45th year as a hypnotist. Paul Burrow LA’76, GR’81, Rippey, IA, retired from Oskaloosa Senior High School after 33 years as a public school teacher and has been appointed co-pastor of the Perry/Rippey/ Fairview Parish of the United Methodist Church. Norwin Merens JO’76, Glenview, IL, was re-elected to a second term as the vice president of the board of directors of the Federation of Jewish Men’s Club, Midwest Region.
Mark Schuling LA’76, LW’80, Des Moines, was elected president of the Federation of Tax Administrators in June 2010. Jeffrey Brillhart FA’77, Philadelphia, joined the music faculty at Yale University in 2005 where he teaches organ improvisation. Susan Koenig-Cramer LA’77, Omaha, NE, was presented with the Outstanding Contributor to Women and the Law Award from Nebraska State Bar Association Women and the Law Section. Alberto Lamorena LW’77, Hagatna, Guam, is the presiding judge of the Superior Court of Guam. Michael Marks LW’77, Golden Valley, MN, accepted a position at McCullough and Kempe, PA. Victoria Lynn Schultz GR’77, Kissimmee, FL, a harpist, tours with orchestras for Connie Francis and Johnnie Mathis. Schultz performed around central Florida in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. John Witt LA’77, Washington, MO, retired after 32 years of public service as a teacher and public library director. Glen Davies FA’78, Urbana, IL, organized the traveling exhibition Stranger in Paradise: The Works of Reverend Howard Finster as a guest curator for the Krannert Art Museum.
1980 Michael Devine LW’80, GR’80, New York, was named to the Panels of Distinguished Neutrals of the International Institute for Conflict Prevention and Resolution.
John Forbes PH’80, Urbandale, IA, was named the 2009 Urbandale Citizen of the Year.
John Benton LW’83, Fair Oaks, CA, joined California Strategies & Advocacy as a partner.
Michael Foggia ED’81, Grimes, IA, is the medical director and ER/family practice clinic physician at Guthrie County Hospital.
Raymond Szull LA’83, Elk Grove Village, IL, serves as PTO president for Byrd School, chairperson for the School District 59 President’s Council and vice president of Elk Grove Village Lion’s Club. Szull is also a certification judge for Bloomington Gold Corvettes.
Michele Gildner LA’81, Grangeville, ID, retired after practicing law for 24 years and married Gary Gildner, a Drake professor emeritus and an alumnus of Michigan State. John Millea JO’81, Rosemount, MN, accepted a position as media specialist with the Minnesota State High School League, which concluded his 30-year career in newspapers as a sports editor, reporter and columnist at publications in Iowa, Arizona and Minnesota. David Strege BN’81, Winterset, IA, and his team members qualified for the USA Open National Volleyball Championships in Phoenix. Jill Johnson BN’82, GR’83, Minneapolis, received the Established Woman Award from the Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners. Steve Swinton LW’82, San Diego, was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. Steven Anderson BN’83, Sioux City, IA, accepted a promotion to senior manager at Insights & Innovation.
AS–Arts and Sciences DV–Divinity FA–Fine Arts JO–Journalism and Mass Communication LW–Law
L. Kylee (Ormes) Albright PH’84, Racine, WI, accepted a new position as pharmacy specialist with Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare. Michael Muhm GR’84, Colleyville, TX, was elected to the city council in August 2009 and re-elected in May 2010. Margaret (Roeder) Spikes FA’84, GR’95, Polk City, IA, was presented with the State Horticultural Society Merit Award. Spikes also received her project management professional certification. Dana Dahl Touzelet LW’84, Nyon, Switzerland, joined Edwards Lifesciences as legal counsel in its EMEA HQ where she supports corporate ethics and compliance initiatives. Brian Wansink GR’84, Ithaca, NY, collaborated with his brother on a study of The Last Supper, which resulted in national media coverage.
William Boatwright LA’85, Urbandale, IA, was recognized by Best Lawyers in America 2010 in the areas of nonprofit/ charities law, trusts and estates. Sally Davis FA’85, GR’86, Atlanta, was the winner of the 2010 POW Award by Womenetics. Mark Haenny LW’85, Loveland, CO, is a financial consultant and vice president with Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. Kim (Slykhuis) Molloy FA’85, Otley, IA, accepted a position as a nursing instructor at Des Moines Area Community College. Michael Eason LA’86, Prairie Village, KS, joined the law firm of Vincent Fontg & Hansen, LLC. Tamara (Byram) Mahl LA’86, FA’86, Davenport, IA, is vice president, legal and compliance, at Trinity Regional Health System. John Sulzen BN’86, GR’87, McKinney, TX, is the corporate account director for the Ethicon Products and Ethicon Endo-Surgery divisions of Johnson & Johnson. Kristin (Kreitling) Lueken FA’87, Kildeer, IL, accepted a position as a real estate agent with Hunter’s Fairway Sotheby’s International Realty. Jennifer (McConnell) Siefert PH’87, Dunlap, IL, is the co-owner of Preckshot Professional Pharmacy.
BN–Business and Public Administration ED–Education GR–Graduate Studies LA–Liberal Arts PH–Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Mary-Helen (Velde) Black AS’88, Boston, is the project manager for Neighborhood Planning at Harvard. She is also the administrative director of the Harvard-Allston Education Portal.
Joy Riggs JO’90, Northfield, MN, earned second place for Best Magazine Column in the Minnesota Professional Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalist’s 2010 Page One Awards for her teen column published in Minnesota Parent magazine.
Cathy Robey FA’88, Pleasant Hill, IA, is employed at St. Joseph’s Elementary School as a para-educator and art club mentor.
Karen (Gruber) Schwoebel PH’90, St. Louis, is the pharmacy business partner in the St. Louis market for Target Pharmacy.
Wake Siefert PH’88, Dunlap, IL, is the co-owner of Preckshot Professional Pharmacy.
Kristin (Hellquist) Cunningham JO’91, Chicago, is director of health policy, practice advocacy and research for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Stephen Johnson AS’89, Scottsdale, AZ, was promoted to president of M&I Bank where he is in charge of 53 branch networks throughout the state of Arizona.
David Remund JO’91, GR’08, Chapel Hill, NC, was a featured presenter at the 2010 International History of Public Relations Conference.
Mary Ellen Kimball GR’89, Osceola, IA, is the past president of Clarke Area Council. She created a Fine Arts Foundation. In addition, Kimball earned her tail-wheel endorsement and hosted the “99’s” Women Pilots Fly-in.
JoAnn Franko Borrall GR’92, Ames, IA, is a writing tutor at Hunziker Center for Des Moines Area Community College and as the art coordinator for a local restaurant.
1990 Susan Brands BN’90, Roswell, GA, accepted a position as controller at Wellspring Group, LLC.
Walt Junker LW’92, Fort Worth, TX, was promoted to the Fraud and Public Corruption Unit of the Dallas Division of the United States Attorney’s Office.
Helene (Feinstein) Grossman GR’90, ’00, Urbandale, IA, started her third year as state director of adult literacy, in which she coordinates adult basic education.
Kelly Fenton-Coleman ED’93, Urbandale, IA, was awarded the Iowa Social Studies Teacher of the Year Award from the Iowa Council for the Social Studies in October 2009.
CRACKING THE CLASS CODE Here’s the “code” for identifying your fellow Drake alumni: The College of Arts and Sciences evolved during the reorganization of Drake’s colleges and schools in 1987 when “Liberal Arts” and “Fine Arts” were combined. Thus, those pre-1987 alumni carry the acronym “LA” or “FA,” while those post-1986 alumni are labeled “AS.”
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Bill Gates AS’93, Phoenix, was elected to the Phoenix City Council.
passion, scores of successful verdicts, hard work for clients, a desire to help the community and a willingness to work hard.” Pamela (Frasher) Gates AS’93, He represents international Phoenix, was appointed by the and Fortune 500 clients in the governor to serve as an Arizona pharmaceutical, chemical and Superior Court Judge. biotechnological industries. Groetken is now a shareholder Phyllis Konchar GR’93, at McAndrews, Held & Malloy, a Pleasant Hill, IA, received the law firm based in Chicago and a 2010 Distinguished Principal registered clinical pharmacist in Award from the National Catholic Illinois, Iowa and Michigan. Educational Association. Jennifer (Glover) Konfrst JO’96, Bret Mills GR’93, BN’00, GR’98, Windsor Heights, IA, was Barnum, IA, was appointed the elected to the Easter Seals Iowa director of Iowa Department of Board of Directors and was named to the 2010 Forty Under Economic Development. 40 class of the Des Moines William Valbert JO’93, Business Record. Key West, FL, relocated to Lee Konfrst JO’96, LW’06, Key West and continues in Windsor Heights, IA, is a memhis position as a senior ber of the 2009–10 Leadership employee communications Iowa Class. consultant with Linda Mott LW’96, The Principal. Albuquerque, NM, accepted Troy Groetken PH’94, LW’97, a position as an assistant Geneva, IL, was named one United States attorney for the District of New Mexico. of the 40 Illinois Attorneys Under Forty to Watch in 2009 Cindy (Swenson) Resman by the Law Bulletin Publishing PH’96, Maple Grove, MN, is the Company. According to the director of public relations for the Neuromodulation Business publisher, Groetken was unit at Medtronic. honored for “intelligence,
Advanced Degrees Susan (Vick) Denecke LA’85, Macomb, IL, earned a master of social work degree at the University of Illinois in May 2010. Kim (Slykhuis) Molloy FA’85, Otley, IA, earned a master of science degree in nursing from San Francisco State University. Kayla (Wagener) Havlik GR’90, Waukee, IA, earned her doctorate in clinical psychology and has been practicing in Des Moines since 1998. Leighe (Hoover) Steers JO’97, Chicago, graduated summa cum laude from Roosevelt
Tony Vincelli BN’96, Rosemount, MN, accepted a new role within General Mills as senior finance manager Worldwide Sourcing and Grain. Kristen Johnson JO’97, Waukesha, WI, was promoted to art director of Simple and Delicious magazine. Gerald Hacker JO’98, Dallas, started working toward his second master’s degree, a master of science degree in accounting, at the Univerisity of Dallas. Ginger (Alley) Morrison PH’98, Appleton, WI, was promoted to vice president of Corporate Pharmacy Operations at Uvanta Healthcare. Brandon Stahl JO’98, Duluth, MN, was promoted to investigations editor at the Duluth News Tribune. VA Hayman Barber JO’99, Lakewood, CO, was named director of experiential education and career services at Johnson & Wales University in Denver.
University with a master of business administration degree with a concentration in real estate in December 2009. Carissa Campbell BN’01, Morrison, CO, graduated from the University of Denver Law School in May 2009. William Watson GR’01, Urbandale, IA, completed his PhD in education at Iowa State University. Sara Graham AS’04, GR’05, Brooklyn Center, MN, earned her juris doctorate from William Mitchell College of Law on May 23, 2010.
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Rishi Ramkissoon PH’99, Tampa, FL, enrolled in an executive MBA program at the University of Tampa.
2000 Linda (Kingrey) Hungerford JO’00, West Des Moines, IA, led a five-lesson series of beginner quiltmaking lessons at St. Mark’s Anglican Church in Darling Point, Australia. Abran Vigil LW’00, Las Vegas, accepted a position with the law firm of Ballard Spahr, LLP. In addition, Vigil was recognized in the 2010 edition of Best Lawyers in America in commercial litigation. Jamie (Flaherty) Held BN’01, GR’01, Plymouth, MN, opened her own firm, Held Law Office, in Edina, MN. Dharit Desai AS’02, GR’05, Mwanza, Tanzania, accepted a new position as lecturer and professional development coordinator at St. Augustine University of Tanzania. Courtney (James) Beall BN’03, Bay Village, OH, received a one-year internship as brand development intern with Eaton Corporation in Cleveland.
Emilie (Cheney) Staryak AS’04, graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a master of science degree in clinical community counseling in 2008. Stessie Bill JO’05, St. Louis, graduated from Saint Louis University School of Law in 2009 and subsequently passed the bar exam. Christopher Branding AS’05, JO’05, O’Fallon, MO, graduated from Webster University with a master’s degree in marketing and advertising. Theresa Burns AS’05, Champlin, MN, graduated with a doctorate of chiropractic degree.
Dorothy (Michalek) Gray JO’03, Munster, IN, is the producer for the 8 a.m. “Good Day Chicago” morning news program for FOX Chicago. Jorge Guzman JO’03, Anoka, MN, opened Lumpy’s Velvet Lounge, a bar/restaurant, with Jason Thiss. Megan Riggs FA’03, Somerville, MA, is employed at Children’s Hospital Boston in the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery. Gregory Swan JO’03, Chaska, MN, was promoted to director of digital strategy at Weber Shandwick Worldwide in Minneapolis. Nicholas Cooper LW’04, Des Moines, was named a partner at Whitfield & Eddy, PLC. Emilie (Cheney) Staryak AS’04, APO, is an intern at a community counseling organization in the Republic of Korea. Stessie Bill JO’05, St. Louis, works at Crowe & Shanahan, a social security disability law firm in downtown St. Louis.
Then Van Tong AS’05, Des Moines, graduated from medical school. Brianna (Orton) McCarty BN’06, Brooklyn, NY, earned her juris doctorate from Brooklyn Law School. Jane (Fiegen) Green AS’07, St. Louis, received her master’s degree in history. Ellen Johnson AS’08, New Haven, CT, received a master of social work degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
weddings Janice Wade FA’59, GR’60 to Lura Works FA’80, May 23, 2009 Bee Shepard BN’75, GR’77 to Mercedes Kirk, Aug. 22, 2009
Sara Brodersen PH’02 to Adam Collins, Oct. 24, 2009
Melissa Byers AS’06 to David Wells ED’07, April 24, 2010
Robin Tyler BN’03 to Christopher Rooney JO’04, June 2009
Brianna Orton BN’06 to Bryan McCarty AS’06, Dec. 23, 2009
Dawn Knudsen PH’04, March 19, 2010
Jane Fiegen AS’07 to Nathaniel Green, Feb. 6, 2010
Renee Layman JO’89 to Scott Moore, Aug. 10, 2009
Erin Larsen JO’04 to Jeffrey Edlund, Oct. 10, 2009
Amy Leytem AS’98 to Tom Pretty, Aug. 15, 2009
Holly O’Connor PH’04 to Christopher Lawrence, Nov. 28, 2009
Katie Ruedinger PH’07 to Joshua Kuhn, May 22, 2010
Jessica Oeth AS’05 to Andy Schuttler, July 2009
Heather Wolf PH’07 to Josh Stanton, Oct. 10, 2009
Becky Foss AS’01 to Chris Crookham, Nov. 13, 2009 Daniel Ramaley AS’01, AS’06 to Noriko Ramaley, March 2009
Emily McClean JO’05, Chicago, IL, is employed by CME Group. Jessica (Oeth) Schuttler AS’05, Mission, KS, has started work on her dissertation for a PhD in psychology. Brendan Mark JO’06, Nashville, TN, is an executive producer with WSMV-TV in Nashville. Melissa Byers Wells AS’06, Rochester, MN, accepted a position as an internal medicine resident at Mayo Clinic. Andrea Church BN’07, El Paso, TX, will return from her first deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom after having spent 12 months abroad. Jacque Mueller DeBuse JO’07, Minneapolis, accepted a position in communications with Target Corporation.
Tiffany Mauch AS’07 to David Krcil AS’05, Sept. 19, 2009
Ellen Johnson AS’08, New Haven, CT, began a yearlong fellowship in clinical social work at the Yale Child Study Center within the School of Medicine at Yale University in July of 2010.
Adrienne Letitia Clark BN’93 and Wendell White AS’92, Grayson, GA, a daughter, Kennedi
Kelly Krogh PH’08, Minneapolis, joined Thayer Lab at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Pharmacology as a predoctoral student.
Lena (Petersen) Schumacher BN’94 and John Schumacher BN’94, Chicago, a daughter, Audrey Henrietta
Zachary Miller AS’08, Carlisle, IA, is employed by Wells Fargo as a loan servicing specialist. Elyse Jacoby JO’09, Geneva, IL, is a retail account coordinator with Ball Horticultural. Jun Lim BN’09, Sengkang, Singapore, is employed as an actuarial associate at Great Eastern Life, Singapore. Heather Malo BN’09, Huntley, IL, recently accepted a position as a market research analyst at Aptar Beauty & Home.
Micheal Shearn BN’07, Lynnville, IA, started a new job as a commercial real estate agent for Iowa Realty Commerical in West Des Moines, IA.
births
Tyler Watt BN’07, Chicago, is an associate at Towers Watson Law Firm.
Sonia (Blesic) Baker PH’92, GR’98 and Scott Baker BN’92, GR’98, St. Paul, MN, a son, Clive
Christine (Bartkowski) Linquist BN’94 and Brad, Chicago, a son, Connor Sullivan
Julie (Clausen) Baeb JO’95 and Eddie Baeb JO’94, Berwyn, IL, a daughter, Audrey Mae Debra (Braun) Crocker JO’96 and Kevin, Lombard, IL, a daughter, Bridget Maura Kami Quinn AS’96 and Maurion, Washington, D.C., a daughter, Nolia Vicki (Hartford) Wade AS’97 and Shawn, Newton, IA, a son, Tucker Luke Aleksa (Huns) Danko PH’98 and Jim, Oak Park, IL, twins, Elias James and Ethan Arnolds Ginger (Alley) Morrison PH’98 and Will, Appleton, WI, a son, Donald Jerry Brooke Divine Scherer AS’98 and Adam Scherer BN’99, Naperville, IL, a son, Bennett Gabriel
Laurie Emler GR’08 to Heath Lowry, Feb. 6, 2010 Sara Gilbert JO’08 to Daniel Sherman, July 11, 2009 Amanda Goucher AS’08 to Greg Stinton, July 25, 2009 Christopher Woods AS’08 to Rachael Giertz, April 10, 2010 Alyssa Homuth ED’09 to Joseph Wiltjer, July 18, 2009 Kristen Mahr BN’09 to Cameron Custis BN’09, May 8, 2010
Michael Schnieders ED’98 and Lisette Luna Schnieders, Glendale, IL, a daughter, Sofia Luna Katharine Pepple Kryszak FA’99 and Tim, Joliet, IL, a son, Timothy James III DeeAnn Wedemeyer-Oleson PH’99 and Mark Oleson PH’95, Adair, IA, a daughter, Katharina Elizabeth Ashley (Lawhon) Wiley JO’99 and Zach, Hermitage, TN, a son, Noah Zachary Jennifer Elvey AS’00 and Noah Schnepper, Wilmette, IL, a son, Louis Karen (Tournier) Gossman JO’00, LW’03 and Clifford, Cary, IL, a daughter, Kathryn Elaine
Daniel Ramaley AS’01, AS’06 and Noriko Talajashi Ramaley, Des Moines, a daughter, Yuri Michelle Kristin (Woods) Rosen BN’01, GR’02 and John Rosen AS’01, Brooklyn, NY, a daughter, Claire Frances Dharit Desai AS’02, GR’05, Mwanza, Tanzania, a daughter, Dhreya Dharit Sara (Gatchel) Wilson JO’02 and Travis, Huxley, IA, a son, Max Travis Erica (Lundquist) Zanetti JO’02 and Tom, San Diego, a son, Cole Anderson Greta (Anderson) Hogrefe PH’04 and Clint, Meriden, IA, a son, Packer Dennis Erin Linden Petefish AS’04 and Daniel Petefish PH’03, Eldridge, IA, a daughter, Lydia Jane
Jason Beumer BN’01, Chanhassen, MN, a son, Quinn Joseph
Rachael (Pifer) Dupen AS’05 and Craig, Waco, TX, a daughter, Claire Felicity
Jennifer (Kruml) Jodlowski AS’01 and Jason, Gardner, KS, a son, Joseph David
Ocie Lowery AS’06, ED’06, Des Moines, a daughter, Jasmine Serenity
Jared McCall ED’01, St. Charles, IL, a son, Landon McCall
Deidra (Dunn) Hibbing PH’07 and Todd Hibbing PH’06, Osage Beach, MO, a son, Quincy Dunn fall 2010 DRAKE BLUE
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drakenotes
deaths
Gladys (Simonson) Olson ED’43, Ames, IA
William Johann LA’49, Omaha, NE
Vernon Sodawasser BN’50, Windsor Heights, IA
Virginia (Jacobs) Wilson ED’54, ED’58, Indianola, IA
Mary Robinson ‘30, Bayard, IA
Loretta (White) Patrick GR’43, O’Fallon, MO
Ellis E. Monk BN’49, Des Moines
Hobart Wolf LA’50, Monkton, IA
Bob Shapland BN’55, Papillion, NE
Ruth Parsons Ryg LA’34, Madrid, IA
Betty (Dikeman) Porter FA’45, GR’52, West Des Moines, IA
Robert S. Morris LA’49, Madison, WI
Don Byers LW’51, GR’93, Newton, IA
Rena (Reeves) Waul ED’56, ED’63, Cherokee, IA
Josephine (Peterson) Eikenberry LA’36, Roseville, CA
William Sturdevant ED’45, GR’47, Des Moines
James Paulding GR’49, Conesville, IA
Robert Dana LA’51, Coralville, IA
Robert Barnes LA’57, LW’58, Waukee, IA
Mary (Mills) Cutforth ED’37, ED’39, Coralville, IA
Jack Anderson ED’47, Omaha, NE
Ralph Quackenbush LA’49, Western Springs, IL
Jayne (Tingleff) Evans PH’51, Colorado Springs, CO
Robert Critchfield BN’57, Burleson, TX
Charles May LA’47, West Des Moines, IA
Paul Ziegenhagen BN’49, GR’51, Lansing, MI
Robert T. Townsend LA’51, Altoona, IA
Paul Edwards BN’58, Tulsa, OK
Jack Edling ED’48, Newton, IA
C. Todd Brenneman BN’50, Des Moines
Doris Herman Bersin ’52, Indian Head Park, IL
Richard William Lingwall FA’60, GR’68, Mesa, AZ
Ralph Carson Jr. ED’50, Langhorne, PA
Frank Calhoun GR’52, Des Moines
Doris (Snider) Henry ED’61, Ankeny, IA
Zola Cole ED’50, Williamsburg, VA
Chuck Uchtman FA’52, Evanston, IL
Melba (Mendenhall) Akason FA’62, GR’66, Oskaloosa, IA
Donald Perkins LA’48, Des Moines
Marcella “Sally” Dykstra Darling ’50, Winterset, IA
Wilmer Elsinga BN’54, Norwalk, IA
Donna (Luchsinger) Beaman ED’62, Boone, IA
Maxine (Gray) Roberts ED’48, Mt. Lebanon, PA
William Gohring BN’50, Waco, TX
Leon Honeck GR’54, Storm Lake, IA
John M. Carlsten GR’62, Des Moines
Bryce Christianson LW’49, West Des Moines, IA.
James Huckins BN’50, Redlands, CA
Ralph Maigaard ED’54, West Des Moines, IA
Ivyl Gilbert LA’62, GR’65, London, OH
Lois (Keeler) Murrow LA’43, Des Moines
Glenn W. Demory FA’49, Phoenix
Gene Saucke ED’50, GR’52, Phelps, WI
John Newberg BN’54, Colorado Springs, CO
Mary Gladfelder ED’63, GR’70, Johnston, IA
Charles O’Connor BN’43, Des Moines
Donald A. Eagle LA’49, DV’53, Phoenix
Franklin Short LW’50, Lake Oswego, OR
James Sutton LA’54, Portland, OR
Valerie Smith Niemi ED’63, Sarasota, FL
Mabel Bergesen LA’29, Gardnerville, NV
Mildred (Thompson) Cooper LA’39, Ames, IA Lucille (Schoen) Irwin LA’39, Des Moines Kermit Jensen PH’39, Chandler, AZ
Warren Gross LA’48, Palm Springs, CA
Grace (Selin) Spitz LA’39, Whittier, CA
Bonnie Compton McNurlen FA’48, GR’49, FA’66, ’70, ’85, ’88, Des Moines
Marilyn (Cooper) Evans ED’40, Boulder, CO Maxine Martz JO’41, Salt Lake City Elizabeth (Decou) Tillson ’41, Concord, NC Jean (McVay) Awtry ED’42, Clive, IA
Authors James Sellards FA’49, FA’51, GR’50, Des Moines, published his fourth novel, The Mobius Strip.
Mac Brand JO’76, Chicago, wrote the book Silent Selling, Listening for The Sounds of Success. Jan Blazanin GR’77, Waukee, IA, published a novel, Fairest of Them All.
Robert Snater FA’53, GR’70, ’77, Santa Rosa, CA, published his autobiography, A Life of Gratitude. Marilyn (Hansen) Lauvstad ED’59, Seattle, published a book of poetry.
Jeffrey Brillhart FA’77, Philadelphia, authored a textbook on organ improvisation titled
Stay in touch. Follow Drake on Twitter at www.twitter.com/drakeuniversity
28
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Breaking Free: Organ Improvisation in the Modern French Style. Michael Manno LW’84, Des Moines, published his second Parker Noble murder mystery, End of the Line. Helene (Feinstein) Grossman GR’90, ’00, Urbandale, IA, published Necessary Conversations About English Language Learners: Templates for Success.
Ronald Peirce BN’58, Slater, IA
David Remund JO’91, GR’08, Chapel Hill, NC, authored a study titled Financial Literacy Explicated: The Case for a Clearer Definition in an Increasingly Complex Economy. Cathy (Cassani) Adams ED’93, Elmhurst, IL, published her first book, The Self-Aware Parent: 19 Lessons for Growing with Your Children.
Changed your career? Your address?
Do you have family news or any career information you’d like to share with the Drake alumni network? Tell us so we can stay connected with you!
q Please check here if your current address is different from the attached mailing label. And please
attach the mailing label so we can correct our records — and stay connected with you.
Name (Mr./Ms.) College and year Address City
State
Phone (home)
Zip
(business)
E-mail address Employer Title What’s new with you?
Lt. Col. Michael Patterson BN’63, Melbourne, FL
Margaret Kuhl ED’68, Louisville, NE
Robert Schoene LA’70, Des Moines
Dave Randall JO’79, Des Moines
Bryant Tuel BN’04, GR’06, Des Moines
Richard “Dick” Gage GR’64, West Des Moines, IA
Ruth (Starner) Soll ED’68, Audubon, IA
Marjorie Deardorff ED’71, Panora, IA
William McCaughey BN’80, GR’82, Sugar Land, TX
Erika Hoefer JO’05, Des Moines
Nadine (Klecha) Jacobsen LA’64, Dixon, CA
Mildred (Romedahl) Steele GR’68, Omaha, NE
Larry Munsinger LW’72, Sioux Falls, SD
Mary (Tenborg) Grabinski LA’84, Orting, WA
Stacie Simpson PH’08, Osage Beach, MO
Elbert Sobotka GR’64, ’67, Marshalltown, IA
Robert Peterson BN’69, Des Moines
Eleonora Petersen ED’72, Adair, IA
Stephen Noland GR’84, ’94, Des Moines
Dorothy (Rutt) Ramsbottom ED’65, Indianola, IA
Dorothy (Payne) Potter ED’69, Newton, IA
Corliss C. Baty LW’75, Denver
Lawrence H. Schultz LW’84, Dubuque, IA
Bette Bast ED’66, Urbandale, IA
Ann (Turek) Bertch ED’70, Scottsdale, AZ
Dorothy (Elwood) Hill ED’66, Scottsdale, AZ
Doris (Howard) Fitzgerald FA’70, Springfield, MO
Mildred Toney ED’66, GR’71, ’75, Des Moines
B. Joan Larson ED’70, GR’79, Ames, IA
Inez (Miller) Siefken ED’67, Mason City, IA
Gary Dale Lindsey JO’70, Leon, IA
Bentley De Mars GR’75, Meadowlakes, TX Jeannine Orr ED’75, Boone, IA Mary (Shirbroun) Uhlenhopp ED’75, Nevada, IA Myrna (Kilstafte) Kokemiller ED’78, Boone, IA Alan Saboe LA’78, Minneapolis
Carolann Beyer BN’90, Chicago Alfredo Alvarez LW’91, Des Moines Douglas Johnson PH’97, Clive, IA Thomas Dassinger GR’03, West Des Moines, IA
fall 2010 DRAKE BLUE
29
PARTINGTHOUGHTS
making the drake experience possible philanthropy n. 1. a love of humankind; concern for other people.
Philanthropy, I’ve realized, is simply caring enough about others to look beyond yourself and giving for the pure joy of giving. Anyone can be a philanthropist. It’s not about a dollar amount; it’s about having the passion for something larger than yourself and a shared sense of responsibility. Philanthropy transforms lives and communities. I support many charities, but my first love is Drake. Why? Because Drake University changed my life. Each of us chose Drake for different reasons, but the common thread that binds us is the Drake experience: the exemplary education, the lifelong friendships, and the opportunity and environment to mature into responsible and caring individuals. I choose to support Drake financially so that others may also have a life-changing experience and to ensure that Drake can continue to provide a truly outstanding education with opportunities to put it to use in research, professional internships, artistic performances, community service and future careers. What motivates my giving to Drake? The student I was seated with at a Drake luncheon who said, “You must love Drake so much to make a gift like that. I hope I can do the same someday.” The award-winning magazines and the exemplary journalists born from the magazine program under the tutelage of professor Lori Blachford. The beautiful changes that have taken place on campus since 1966. The realization of how brilliant my young sorority sisters are and how successful they surely will be, which came to me while seated with them at a dinner as a member of the Drake Board of Trustees. The commitment of alumni ensures that Drake continues to excel and make good on the promise of providing an exceptional learning environment that benefits students and society as a whole. The world needs more Drake graduates. And each of us can play a part in making this happen. If Drake has had an impact on your life like it has mine, now is the time to express your support. — Peggy Fisher, FA’70, distinctlyDrake Co-Chair; Member, Drake University Board of Trustees; and Chief Strategic and Operating Officer, The Stelter Company
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Double Your Dollars The Drake University Board of Trustees believes so strongly in the distinctlyDrake campaign and The Drake Fund that they have issued a challenge:
All new gifts and increases in contributions to The Drake Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $500,000, by the board of trustees. Please visit www.drake.edu/president/trustees.php for a complete listing of the Drake University Board of Trustees.
www.distinctly.drake.edu
Office of Alumni and Development 2507 University Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50311-4505
Drake’s mission is to provide an exceptional learning environment that prepares students for meaningful personal lives, professional accomplishments, and responsible global citizenship. The Drake experience is distinguished by collaborative learning among students, faculty, and staff and by the integration of the liberal arts and sciences with professional preparation.
98
5
ranking on U.S.News & World Report’s “Great Schools – Great Values” list.
$47 million amount of money awarded in financial aid this year
ranking attained for
3rd
percentage of Drake undergraduate students who receive some form of financial aid.
DRAKE BY THE NUMBERS
academic quality among the 572 master’s institutions in the nation by U.S.News & World Report in 2010.
$14 million amount of new funds added to the faculty/staff compensation budget over the past seven years.
4.3%
average tuition increase over the past several years.