The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, as the lead in partnership with Drake’s Center for Public Democracy, hosted the inaugural Civic Leadership Academy (CLA) July 10–12. Twenty-eight rising high school seniors from five states participated in the exclusive opportunity to learn from scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders.

In addition to leadership development training and resources, participants visited the Iowa Judicial Building for a candid conversation with elected and appointed officials, enjoyed a networking lunch with Drake University leadership and current students at the Drake Diner, and completed a service project at Meals from the Heartland.

A special thanks to Donna, LA’80, and Darnell, BN’80, Pettengill for their generous contribution to support the 2023 Civic Leadership Academy. In addition to the Pettengill’s investment, the CLA received philanthropic support from a generous donor who wishes to remain anonymous.

The 2024 Civic Leadership Academy will be held in July 2024. For more information on the event and for questions on the application process for high school students, contact Hilary Ortmann at hilary.ortmann@drake.edu.

— Megan Wesselink, Robert D. & Billie Ray Center