My first Drake Relays is almost here! While I was on campus briefly during this time last year, I’m excited for my first Relays experience as a full-fledged Drake Bulldog. This is a week that I hope all on campus can enjoy, whether it’s student street painting tomorrow, the Beautiful Bulldog Contest on Sunday, or enjoying the competition next week. It’s a time to reunite with old classmates and students, welcome visitors to campus, and enjoy the company of colleagues and friends. I encourage you to get out and enjoy the festivities on campus and in the community—you can find a list here.

This year, we are also celebrating my inauguration, and I want to thank all those involved in planning for the event. Individuals from across campus have been instrumental in putting together what I’m sure will be an extraordinary ceremony, and I couldn’t be more appreciative. I would especially like to thank Professor Joseph Schneider and Trustee Cathy Lacy for co-chairing the planning committee. I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the entire Drake community for your enthusiastic participation in this event; I am immensely proud to be formally installed as the leader of this great institution in front of my family, friends, colleagues from other institutions, and all of you.

Enjoy Relays!

Marty