The All Staff Council Recognition Committee recognized the College of Business and Public Administration staff this month with a Bulldog Applause. Read an interview below to learn more about this great team. A huge thank you to the CBPA staff for all your hard work and dedication to the University.

How many staff members are in the department?  There are 18 members of the CBPA family.

What is the primary function of the team? Our team is focused on ensuring that the College can deliver on its promise that our graduates will be equipped to innovate and lead in a globally complex, diverse, and dynamic world.

Do you have a mission/vision/motto? Our north star is the belief that a CBPA education is a force for good, contributing to the global economy and to society.

Who has been with the team the longest, and what is their job title and length of employment? Sheri Gavin, budget and office manager, started in June 2001.

Who is the newest team member, and what is their job title and month/year of start? Sophie Tibbals, success coach, undergraduate administration, started as a full time staff member in February 2020, but has worked as a student worker with the CBPA since 2017.

What campus buildings do your team members “live” in?  Aliber Hall—but extends beyond the walls with such caring, respect, and valued appreciation for each other.

What are some recent challenges and accomplishments of note that others in the University might not know about?  We welcomed Dean Alejandro Hernandez to our CBPA team in August.

This fall, students, faculty, and staff entered a world that was different than anything in recent decades. Our ability to listen and to respond creatively and with foresight has proven to be crucial.  2020–2021 is our self-study year for AACSB accreditation with a site visit planned for February 2022.  As we complete our strategic plan, evaluate programs and student outcomes, benchmark against peers, and compile evidence of societal impact we see our north star being put into practice.

Anything else noteworthy/interesting/special about your department that bears mentioning? The College is among the academic units at Drake with the greatest diversity of faculty, staff, and students.