All posts by Carla Herling

Tech Tips: Getting help with using Microsoft Office

Microsoft Office is a tool most of us use each day. Some things are easy to figure out, but what if you run into an issue? Or you’re not sure how to perform a task? Or you need to learn something new?

Here’s where to go for help.

  1. Use the application’s Help menu: Go to the Help menu within the Microsoft Office application you’re using. If you start typing a word, you’ll get an arrow pointing to the menu item or a link to a tutorial. It’s always up to date for your version of whatever program you’re using. It’s a good way to refresh your memory or to learn more about the program’s functions.
  2. Support.office.com: Microsoft’s website, support.office.com has templates, tutorials, and videos listed by application for various level users. If you search this website, be sure you’ve noted the version of the product you’re needing help on (2016, 2013 or 2010), as well as your platform (Mac, PC, etc.). Not sure where to find that information? Look in your application under the About menu.
  3. Google it: Google is a great place to find links to sites that specialize in an application, or step-by-step tutorials. Be sure that you note your application’s version and platform so you can find the right information. Menus and functionality vary by product, and there’s enough difference that you may be confused if you’re not looking at the exact version you have on your computer.

— Carla Herling, ITS

Celebrate National Distance Learning Week

The purpose of National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) is to generate greater awareness and appreciation for distance learning while recognizing leaders and best practices in the field.

Drake University will be celebrating NDLW from Nov. 4–8. Here are some of the ways you can participate:

National Distance Learning Week Reception
Wednesday, Nov. 6,  from 3–4:30 p.m.
Location: Lower level of Carnegie Hall
Refreshments provided.

Free Online Webinars About Distance Learning
NOTE: Registration is required for many of these sessions. Please sign up with the links available for each event at
https://usdla.org/2019-ndlw/.

Connect on Social Media
Follow @DrakeUOnline on Twitter for regular postings highlighting best practices.

Learn about Drake’s Online Programs
Visit online.drake.edu/.

Learn about Drake’s Continuing Education and Professional Development Programs and Offerings
Visit www.drake.edu/cepd/.

Take a Virtual Campus Tour
www.drake.edu/tour/

Send Kudos or e-cards to your Drake peers to celebrate distance learning champions.
drake.peerceive.com/auth/login (login required)

— Drake Online & Continuing Education and Academic & Emerging Technologies, ITS

Submit your candidate art for the Iowa Caucus Project

The Iowa Caucus Project is seeking your candidate art. Create an original portrait of any candidate currently running for president in 2020, send it to contactcaucus@drake.edu, and the staff will send your work to the campaigns for candidate signature and share their favorites on their website and social media. All students are welcome to send in their work and submissions are welcome through the end of the semester.

— Will Follett, AS’20

Benefits/Wellness Fair and Crock Pot Cook-Off Nov. 8

A benefits/wellness fair will be held Friday, Nov. 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Olmsted Center, Parents Hall North. This “come and go” event provides an opportunity for employees to learn about the wide range of benefits and wellness opportunities available at Drake, ask questions, and visit with colleagues.

Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa representatives, Drake benefit consultants, and Human Resources staff will be present to answer your questions regarding Drake’s benefits.

Afterward, walk next door to Parents Hall South between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for the All Staff Council Crock Pot Cook-Off to taste delicious crock pot samples and vote for your favorite. All attendees will receive a ticket for $1 off lunch at Hubbell Dining, and may enter a raffle for a chance to win a free parking pass for 2020–2021. You are welcome to bring a non-perishable item for Drake’s Little Pantry initiative as well.

For more information on the cook-off, please contact ascspecialevents@drake.edu.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources

The Benson Lecture: Coming out with Guy Benson

Guy Benson, author, political editor of Townhall.com, Fox News contributor, and member of Forbes 30 under 30, will be hosting a conversation on Wednesday, Nov. 13 in the Cowles Reading Room from 7–8 p.m. about identity politics and social conservatism from the lens of a millennial conservative. Benson’s talk is hosted by Drake College Republicans and sponsored by Drake University alumnus Mike Mason BN ’68 and the Slay Fund.

— John Altendorf, AS, JO

Final grades due Dec. 18

Faculty, final grades are due by 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec 18, 2019.  Exception: Final grades for the Law School are due on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020. Your ability to submit final grades will be disabled at that point.

View instructions on how to send your final grades from Blackboard to MyDUSIS.

Those of you who want to submit grades directly into MyDUSIS should begin by clicking the Grading button in the “Faculty & Advising” menu in MyDrake and then finding the “Final Grades – Submittal Link.”

The final evaluation schedule includes a listing of when and where courses are scheduled to meet for their final evaluations.

— Kevin Moenkhaus, Office of the Registrar

Final grades due Dec. 18

Students, final grades for non-Law School courses are due Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019. Final grades for the Law School are due Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020.

Generally, final grades are available to view by the first calendar day following the day the grade was entered. You may view your final grades by clicking the “My Grades” link under the Student Records area in MyDrake.

— Kevin Moenkhaus, Office of the Registrar

SAB Relays logo design contest

SAB is looking for a student designer to create the logo that will be used to promote all of our Relays 2020 events. The Drake Relays are a huge Drake tradition and is one of the best times to be on campus. We’re looking for a logo that will capture school spirit and the excitement of Relays!

The winning designer will work alongside SAB to create a logo that will be used on posters, painted street, promotional giveaways, apparel, and more all around campus. Your work will be seen by thousands of students, alumni, and community members!

The application is due no later than Nov. 15 at 11:59 p.m. Information regarding Round 2 will be sent to the top three designers based on the submitted portfolio work by the end of the weekend.

You can find the application here: tinyurl.com/relayslogo2020.

— Delia Koolick, AS’20

Recognize your colleagues for Generosity of Spirit at November social

Drake faculty and staff who exemplify the Core Value of Generosity of Spirit will be recognized at the next Provost’s Drake Social, Thursday, Nov. 21, from 4–5:30 p.m. at Cowles Library Reading Room.

To nominate a colleague, please use the Qualtrics form. You can nominate up to five colleagues on each form. Feel free to fill out multiple forms. All those nominated will be recognized on a rolling display.

How do we define Generosity of Spirit at Drake? We look for colleagues who trust, empower, and presume the best of each other; who practice civility, caring, and respect; and who commit to equity and inclusion.

When you nominate colleagues, be prepared to describe how each colleague meets these descriptions. From among those nominated, several will be chosen at random for prizes.

Refreshments will include wine, beer, soft drinks, and light snacks. This is a family friendly event. Feel free to bring your children and partner.

The November Drake Social will be preceded by a Town Hall at 3:30 p.m. in celebration of International Education Week.

— Drinda Williams, Office of the Provost