Transforming Lives and Strengthening Communities

A Letter from President Martin

From the opening of Mediacom Stadium and the unveiling of Zimpleman College of Business to the revitalization of Morehouse Hall into a stunning new Student Center and the creation of more than 300 new and expanded student scholarships, we are in the midst of a transformative period in Drake’s history.

The Ones Campaign for the Brave & Bold has reached $216 million toward our $225 million goal. The impact of the campaign can be seen and felt across campus as we continue to leverage and empower the transformational work of our faculty and students to build a stronger tomorrow.

The Ones marks the most important and comprehensive campaign in Drake’s history, and it comes at a time when Drake—like all of higher education—is facing increased external pressures. In the last decade, there has been approximately a 10 percent nationwide decline in the number of high school graduates entering college. This precedes the shifting demographics that will lead to smaller high school graduating classes in the years ahead.

As an enrollment-dependent institution, we are charting an innovative and proactive path forward to secure our future. Our plan includes new revenue-generating strategies, adjustments to our curriculum, a review of our academic programs to ensure our academic offerings align with students’ evolving interests and societal needs, and creative approaches to increase enrollment.

While the work we have before us demands we make difficult decisions, we are confident that, together, we can overcome these challenges and build a stronger University for the long term.

We are Bulldogs—the ones built for change. The ones committed to making a positive difference through education. The ones using knowledge to uplift individuals of all ages and from all backgrounds.

It is in part because of The Ones campaign that we are able to take control of our own destiny and thrive. In this issue we will highlight the transformative power of a Drake education. How it cultivates passions, community, and inspires students for a lifetime. Drake has a powerful story to tell. I invite you to share it with others so they may know the greatness of being a Bulldog.

As a powerful alumni community—80,000 strong and spanning all corners of the globe—now is the time to unleash our full potential. Let us continue to be The Ones to lead Drake into its next great era.

Go Bulldogs!

Marty Martin

President, Drake University