All posts by Hope Bibens

For Faculty Archive

Textbook Alternative Dashboard, OER Grant Program

Cowles Library has developed a Textbook Alternatives Dashboard that displays both Open Educational Resources (OER) and library-purchased e-Books currently used by faculty in their courses. OER are free, adaptable, and easily accessible materials that help reduce student costs while giving instructors the flexibility to tailor content to better fit their teaching and students’ learning needs.

See the OER Initiatives Research Guide for more information on the current faculty OER grant program. The application deadline has been extended to Oct. 31.

— Hope Bibens, Cowles Library

For Faculty Archive, For Staff Archive

Provost’s Social today at 4 p.m.

Faculty and staff who exemplify the Core Value of Joyful Accountability will be recognized at the Provost’s Social today, Oct. 21, at 4 p.m. in the Schicklers Club (formerly known as Courtside Club). This is a family friendly event. Please join us to congratulate your colleagues who have been nominated for exhibiting Joyful Accountability!

— Ann Guddall, Provost’s Office

For Students Archive

Register for Drake’s Annual Student Leadership Conference

Every interaction—whether in class, at an interview, or meeting someone new—shapes how others see you as a leader. How can you show up with confidence and authenticity so your presence makes a lasting impact?

Join us at the 2025 Sussman Leadership Conference to explore these questions. Featuring keynote speaker Stephanie Salasek, founder of LookUp Communications, you’ll learn practical strategies and tools to build professional presence, elevate emotional intelligence, and create meaningful moments that inspire others as a Drake student leader.

Free for all Drake students—registration includes a gourmet brunch, a keynote address, and several choose-your-own interactive breakout sessions. If you register, please arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire event.

Space is limited! Register by Wednesday, Nov. 5.

Questions? Contact Kristin Economos at kristin.economos@drake.edu.

— Kristin Economos, Senior Director, Adams Leadership Institute

For Faculty Archive, For Staff Archive

Reminder: University Budget Town Hall Nov. 4

As a reminder, the University will hold a budget town hall on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 3 p.m. in the Olmsted Center, Parents Hall. All faculty and staff are encouraged to attend to learn more about the fiscal year 2025 results, overall financial health, fiscal year 2026 budget, and a look ahead to future fiscal years. 

If you have questions you would like addressed at the town hall, please send them to president@drake.edu.

— Adam Voigts, Chief Financial Officer

For Faculty Archive, For Staff Archive

Drake’s Continuous Improvement Plan: Our Strategic Plan

As always, you are encouraged to review Drake’s Continuous Improvement Plan. This is our strategic plan and lists out all our objectives along with major University initiatives. Please take time to explore how each of those objectives are embodied in many ways across our campus life. You can do so by clicking on the  “Learn more” link or the “+” in each objective area to see more on student, faculty, and staff successes.

This site is continuously updated and can be found any time by going to the drake.edu home page, clicking on ‘Campus Links’ at the top and selecting ‘Strategic Plan’.

— Nate Reagen, Office of the President

Campus Announcements Archive

Tune into Everclass Oct. 23 For a Conversation with David Lubbers, JO’86

Join us for an exclusive Everclass session with David Lubbers, JO’86—former ESPN investigative producer and award-winning sports journalist—now Assistant Professor of Multimedia News Journalism at Drake. Over nearly two decades at ESPN, Lubbers produced stories for E:60, Outside the Lines, and SportsCenter, covering everything from Super Bowls to Michael Jordan. A career highlight: interviewing legendary coach John Wooden—and asking about Drake’s 1969 Final Four matchup with UCLA. With multiple Peabody and Emmy Awards, Lubbers brings unmatched storytelling experience and a deep passion for journalism.

When: Thursday, Oct. 23, at 12 p.m.
Where: Zoom – Register for free

— Andy Verlengia, Alumni Relations

Campus Announcements Archive

Halloween on 34th Street

Drake Panhellenic and IFC will be hosting trick-or-treating on 34th Street at the sorority and fraternity houses. The event will be on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 5–7 p.m. We would love to have everyone join us for a fun-filled night of candy, games, and more.

— Ella Bloom, PH’26

For Students Archive

Fencing Workshop

Join us Friday, Oct. 24, at 5 p.m. in the Bell Center Studio for an exciting introduction to the art of fencing. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on workshop covers footwork, technique, and strategy in a fun and supportive environment. All equipment provided—just bring your energy and curiosity. Come experience the thrill of the duel!

— Gail Witte, Rec Services

For Faculty Archive, For Staff Archive

2025 United Way of Central Iowa Giving Campaign

Our annual opportunity to contribute to United Way of Central Iowa, as a University, is coming again in November.  Your optional contribution can be financial, volunteering, and/or needed supplies. We’ll continue to have some fun, giving-level incentives as well.  This especially includes the incentive of getting a full-day off on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving instead of a half-day—if we can hit our campaign participation goal!

The campaign will kick-off on Monday, Nov. 10, with an email from United Way of Central Iowa and will conclude on Friday, Nov. 14. Some highlights to share:

  • The campaign is part of our commitment as an anchor institution and to the Des Moines community
  • One hundred percent of the funds donated remain in central Iowa (Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties)
  • Serves over 10,000 people in the 50311 zip code
  • United Way financially supports many organizations that are partners with Drake including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa

More details about this years campaign, giving level incentives, volunteer opportunities, and a supply drive is forthcoming in the next OnCampus.

— Nate Reagen, Office of the President