Have you ever noticed the names etched into the south portal of Cowles Library? Did you ever wonder how these scholars were chosen for representation? Did you ever think there might be other scholars worthy of recognition? We have answers…and questions for you.

The names — Galileo and Newton, Plato and Kant, Bacon and Pasteur, Beethoven and Wagner, Euripides and Shakespeare, Michelangelo and Rembrandt — were chosen to represent “the six branches of knowledge—Philosophy, Science, Music, Art, Literature, and Astronomy,” according to a 1939 document by (we think) Mary Bell Nethercut, director of Cowles Library. “The first of each group was one of the older and recognized representations and the other, one typical of a trend of the newer age.”

As we look at the list now, though, with 21st Century perspective, what leaps to mind is that they’re all white men. We believe that there have been other scholars worthy of recognition in the Cowles portal: scholars of color, women scholars, scholars with disabilities. We invite your help in identifying them. Submit a nomination by March 15.

For questions, please reach out to a member of Cowles Library’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee: Marcia Keyser and Cameron Tuai, co-chairs; Hope Bibens, Dan Chibnall, Laura Krossner, Kathy Lincoln, and Jill Gremmels, members.

Jill Gremmels, Dean, Cowles Library

Drake’s All Staff Council Recognition Committee recently celebrated the Sponsored Programs team with a surprise treat delivery, compliments of Drake Dining. The following spotlight provides a few facts about the Sponsored Programs Department. Thank you to the team for everything they do to make Drake a great place!

How many staff members are in the department?
Four staff member make up the department: Director, Mary Wohlford, Ph.D., director; Tracy Bainter, MPA, ABD, pre-award and compliance; Kristine Plagman, senior accountant; and Tricia Atterberg, accountant.

What is the primary function of the team?
Develop grant proposals with university stakeholders, ensure grant dollars are spent correctly, and provide oversight for human subjects research and animal care and use.

Do you have a mission/vision/motto?
Our Mission is to provide pre-award, post award, and research compliance services.

Informal Mottos: “inspire and achieve”, “it’s all good, it’s all good”, “inspire success”. There are moments when we say, “making the impossible possible”, “turning fantasy into reality”, “get it done,” and  my personal favorite “your monkey, your circus.”

Who has been with the team the longest?
Kristine Plagman has served seven years in the Sponsored Programs department and 11 years at Drake.

Who is the newest team member?
Tricia Atterberg started in the department in August 2018.

What campus buildings do your team members “live” in?
Old Main, Penthouse

What are some recent challenges and accomplishments of note?
There are very few challenges, many accomplishments—the most notable is the increase we have seen in funded grants.

Anything else noteworthy about your department?
“My good colleagues are the most dedicated, kind individuals I have ever worked with.” –Mary Wohlford

Cathy Williams, All Staff Council Recognition Committee