Drake’s Intensive English Program (IEP) provides free learning opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to improve English skills. Our IEP offers intermediate and advanced level classes with an academic focus. If you feel that you may need additional help in a certain English skill area, be it advanced academic writing, grammar, or speaking, or if you simply would like to improve your pronunciation, you may want to consider taking one of our classes. The best news is that full-time Drake students, including exchange students, staff, and faculty can take IEP classes free of charge. We also offer an American Culture course for anyone who is interested in a deeper understanding of the U.S. and its various cultural aspects.

All classes for the Spring 2021 semester are being offered remotely. Please note that these classes are not credit-bearing.

Our classes begin Monday, Feb. 1, and end Friday, May 7. The last day to register for classes is Friday, Feb. 5. If you are interested in joining a class, wish to see the schedule, or have questions about the program, contact Kendra Hossain-Morehead at kendra.hossain-morehead@drake.edu.

— Kendra Hossain-Morehead, Director of International Student and Scholar Services

You are invited to participate in a research study about remote versus face-to-face courses at Drake University. This study is being conducted by a team of Drake University faculty on behalf of the Center for Teaching Excellence. The purpose of this study is to explore student and faculty perceptions of and attitudes toward remote versus face-to-face learning environments.

We are seeking your participation in a virtual one-on-one interview, which should take no more than 30 minutes to complete. Interviews will take place during January or February 2021. You are eligible to participate if you are 1) a faculty member or enrolled as a student at Drake University, 2) have instructed (faculty) or taken (student) face-to-face, in-person college courses, and 3) are 18 years of age or older. Participation in the study is completely voluntary. Participants who enroll in the study and complete the 30-minute interview will receive a $10 Amazon gift card.

If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Eliza Dy-Boarman at eliza.dy@drake.edu.

— Eliza Dy-Boarman, Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice

The after-hours space at Cowles Library will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. The space accommodates 35 people and offers printer and computer services, as well as item pickup and self-checkout. Please use the south entrance of the library to access this space with your Drake ID. The main area of Cowles Library is closed.

Library items can be returned in the outdoor book drop near the library’s north entrance.

E-books, articles, and videos are available online, along with virtual chat and online consultation services. Please go to library.drake.edu for more information and to place library items on hold.

— Leslie Noble, Cowles Library

The All Staff Council Recognition Committee recognized the College of Business and Public Administration staff this month with a Bulldog Applause. Read an interview below to learn more about this great team. A huge thank you to the CBPA staff for all your hard work and dedication to the University.

How many staff members are in the department?  There are 18 members of the CBPA family.

What is the primary function of the team? Our team is focused on ensuring that the College can deliver on its promise that our graduates will be equipped to innovate and lead in a globally complex, diverse, and dynamic world.

Do you have a mission/vision/motto? Our north star is the belief that a CBPA education is a force for good, contributing to the global economy and to society.

Who has been with the team the longest, and what is their job title and length of employment? Sheri Gavin, budget and office manager, started in June 2001.

Who is the newest team member, and what is their job title and month/year of start? Sophie Tibbals, success coach, undergraduate administration, started as a full time staff member in February 2020, but has worked as a student worker with the CBPA since 2017.

What campus buildings do your team members “live” in?  Aliber Hall—but extends beyond the walls with such caring, respect, and valued appreciation for each other.

What are some recent challenges and accomplishments of note that others in the University might not know about?  We welcomed Dean Alejandro Hernandez to our CBPA team in August.

This fall, students, faculty, and staff entered a world that was different than anything in recent decades. Our ability to listen and to respond creatively and with foresight has proven to be crucial.  2020–2021 is our self-study year for AACSB accreditation with a site visit planned for February 2022.  As we complete our strategic plan, evaluate programs and student outcomes, benchmark against peers, and compile evidence of societal impact we see our north star being put into practice.

Anything else noteworthy/interesting/special about your department that bears mentioning? The College is among the academic units at Drake with the greatest diversity of faculty, staff, and students.