Last week, the University launched its Big Ideas initiative. The initiative invites faculty, staff, students, and volunteers to submit “big ideas” that have the potential to make a powerful and momentous impact on Drake, the region, and the world. The initiative invites the University community to take a shared ownership in defining Drake’s future.

During this initial phase of the project, and until the submission window opens Jan. 14, I urge all faculty and staff to think big and to be bold, and to help us envision the dynamic future of our University.

Positioning Drake as a great university
The Big Ideas initiative signifies our commitment to support a number of multidisciplinary, large-scale projects that have the potential to create a transformational impact by leveraging areas where Drake already is uniquely positioned to lead. The proposals can cover a range of outcomes and impacts, varying from student-oriented to research-oriented to community-oriented. The submitted proposals will be reviewed by the Big Ideas Steering Committee, with select proposals being used by University Advancement to attract and inspire private giving in the years ahead.

Learn more
Visit the Big Ideas website to read more about the submission process and timeline. The website contains an FAQ to help you better understand the project. In addition, you will have an opportunity to learn more about the initiative at the faculty and staff social on Thursday, Dec. 13, at 3:30 p.m. at Shivers Hospitality Suite. More communication will be shared about the process in the coming months.

I invite you to begin preparing a proposal for your Big Idea to help us solidify Drake as a leading institution for generations to come. Your vision, leadership, and creativity will help to elevate Drake University and the work and service you carry out each day.

John Smith, University Advancement