All posts by Linda Feiden

HR Information

Reminder: Premium Discount Annual Physical Forms Due by Dec. 1

Employees on Drake’s health plan who wish to receive the wellness health insurance premium discount in 2026, need to complete a physical exam with an in-network provider between Dec. 1, 2024 and Nov. 30, 2025, and submit a completed Premium Discount-Annual Physical Form  by Dec. 1, 2025.  This form must be filled out annually to continue to receive the premium discount.

If you cannot get an appointment with your doctor by the Dec. 1, 2025 deadline, or you do not have a primary care provider, you may contact the Broadlawns Community Clinic by Drake (2970 University Ave.) at 515-216-5100 to make an appointment.  Let them know you are from Drake and need to make an appointment for a wellness exam.  Most individuals can get in within two or three days, but please do not wait until the last week to contact them.

Besides receiving a premium discount, an annual physical is a great way to receive important health information through age and gender specific examinations, schedule recommended preventative screenings, and create a doctor-patient relationship.

Please contact linda.feiden@drake.edu with questions.

— Linda Feiden, Human Resources

For Faculty, For Staff

Network Refresh Project Underway

Earlier this month ITS officially kicked off the planned multi-year network refresh project. This project aims to replace all wireless access points and network switches on campus over the next three years. This work is essential as we work to support growing connectivity needs, plan for future wireless technologies, and maintain a secure campus network.

The project will be completed in two major phases. The first will be focused on replacing wireless access points across campus with the second phase being focused on replacing network switches.  While most of the new access points will replace existing older equipment, the team is working hard to identify areas where additional wireless coverage is needed and ensuring the resources are being leveraged in the best way possible. 

Below is the tentative planned roll out of the wireless access points across campus. Please note that these building groups and dates can change based on hardware availability and building event schedules. 

Building TypeProjected Implementation
Athletic BuildingsFall 2025
Group 1 Administrative BuildingsFall 2025
Group 1 Academic BuildingsJ-Term 2026 / Spring 2026
Group 2 Administrative BuildingsSpring 2026
Residence HallsSummer 2026
Group 2 Academic BuildingsFall 2026 / J-Term 2027

We understand that stable and reliable internet access is critical to teaching, learning, and daily campus operations. To help ensure minimal campus impact, we will be reaching out to building managers prior to the start of work in their assigned building. We will notify them of projected start dates as well as identify any additional events or activities happening in that area.

For more information about the project and to see ongoing building status updates, please visit our project internal site. 

Network Refresh Project Internal Site 

— Jeff Regan, ITS

Campus Announcements

J-Term and Spring 2026 Registration, Schedule of Classes

The J-Term and Spring 2026 schedule of classes and related registration information is available online. Registration begins Monday, Nov. 3.

View registration information, including the registration time table that shows when you become eligible to register. View the schedule of classes.

Some courses will be temporarily reserved for students who have declared a certain field-of-study (major, minor, concentration, or endorsement). On Monday, Nov. 17, those reservations will be removed. Note that some courses have restrictions that are permanent.

If you are an undergraduate or pharmacy student intending to make any changes to your field-of-study and have those changes take effect before registration begins, file your changes via the change of record request no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 27. Requests submitted after this date may be delayed.

The change of record request can be found by navigating to myDrake, selecting Self-Service under commonly used apps, and clicking on the link for the change of record request under Student Records.

— Ryan Trump, Office of the Registrar

For Students

Applications Open for Study Abroad Fall and Summer 2026

The deadline to submit a Summer study abroad & scholarship application is March 1

The deadline to submit a Fall study abroad & scholarship application is April 1

Students interested in studying abroad the fall semester, next academic year, or summer can find a full list of approved study abroad programs and begin an application through our application portal, Via Global. To find more general information on joining an international program, please visit Drake’s study abroad website.

If you have questions about studying abroad while at Drake, you can schedule a study abroad advising meeting through Starfish.

Questions? Email studyabroad@drake.edu

— Emily Erschen, Education Abroad Coordinator

For Faculty, For Staff

University Budget Town Hall Nov. 4

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

Campus Announcements

Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025: Staying Safe in the Age of AI

October brings Cybersecurity Awareness Month—a dedicated opportunity to elevate our community’s understanding of online safety. As digital threats evolve, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), it’s crucial to ground ourselves in the essentials and sharpen our awareness of new risks. This article highlights the trusted “core 4” of cybersecurity and introduces practical tips for staying safe in the age of AI.

The “Core 4” of Cybersecurity 

Start with the four foundational habits known as the “core 4″—practices that greatly reduce your vulnerability to cyber threats:

  • Use strong passwords and a password manager: Create unique, complex passwords for each account and store them with a trusted password manager for convenience and security.
  • Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection by requiring additional verification—like a code sent to your device—when logging into important accounts.
  • Update your software: Regularly install updates for your devices and applications. These updates often include critical security patches that fix known vulnerabilities.
  • Recognize and report scams: Stay alert for suspicious emails, messages, or links. If something feels off, don’t click—report it promptly to campus IT so others are protected, too.

Staying Safe in the Age of AI: New Challenges & Practical Tips

As artificial intelligence becomes woven into everyday technology, cybercriminals are using it to create new, sophisticated threats. Alongside the “core 4,” here are additional tips to help you remain secure:

  • Be skeptical of hyper-realistic content: AI-generated images, videos, and audio (deepfakes) can be hard to spot. Verify any unusual or extraordinary content through another trusted channel before reacting or sharing.
  • Watch for AI-powered phishing scams: Attackers use AI to craft convincing, personalized phishing messages. Double-check sender information and be wary of urgent requests for personal or financial details.
  • Protect your data from AI scraping: Review your privacy settings on social media and limit the personal information you post online, as AI tools can collect and misuse public data.
  • Use trusted AI tools: Stick to reputable, well-reviewed AI apps and services. Check privacy policies and be selective with permissions, especially for apps requesting access to sensitive data.
  • Stay informed about AI threats: Cyber risks change quickly. Follow campus alerts and subscribe to reliable cybersecurity news to keep up with new developments.
  • Understand AI in everyday apps: Many popular tools employ AI for convenience—like smart assistants or automatic photo organization. Learn how these features use your data and adjust your settings to control what’s shared.

For a quick and engaging overview of how to spot AI-driven deception, check out our 4-minute video, “Seeing Through the Deception,” available on our internal website. This short video provides practical examples and tips to help you recognize deepfakes, manipulated content, and AI-powered scams—empowering you to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals. We encourage everyone in our campus community to watch and share this resource as part of your ongoing cybersecurity learning.

What To Do If You Suspect a Security Incident

If you encounter an AI-driven scam, suspicious content, or a possible breach, contact the ITS Support Center right away. Fast reporting helps protect your data and our campus community.

 

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By following the “core 4” and staying vigilant against AI-powered risks, you help build a safer digital environment for all. Let’s use Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025 to reinforce smart habits and adapt to tomorrow’s challenges.

— Becky Klein, ITS

Campus Announcements

34th Street Block Party Oct. 16

Have you ever wanted to tour a fraternity or sorority house? Want to meet more students and learn what fraternity and sorority life is like? Please join us on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 4:30–6 p.m. to meet members of fraternity and sorority life and take tours of some of our houses. This is a casual come-and-go type event so we welcome you to join us anytime within that window when you are available. Fraternity and Sorority members will be available on 34th Street and Forest Avenue (between 32nd Street and 33rd Street) to direct you to houses you wish to see and visit. If you have any questions, please reach out to drakeFSL@drake.edu.

— Liz Itzen, Director, Fraternity and Sorority Life

For Faculty, For Staff

Annual Survey of Administrative Services: Your Feedback is Needed

Every fall, we ask for your input on how we fulfill our commitment to elevate service excellence. Your collective input is reviewed and acted upon. For examples from last year, see the responses from SPARC, ITS, and others.

It’s that time of year again and thank you for your input in advance! Your voice helps shape continuous improvement in these areas across campus: Facilities Planning and Management, Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, Public Safety, University Communications & Marketing, and the SPARC (grants) office.

Click here to complete this year’s survey by Oct. 21. It is completely anonymous and often takes less than five minutes to complete. You will only be asked to provide feedback on the areas you work with regularly.

The survey was developed by the Office of Institutional Research & Assessment in collaboration with each area on the survey. Thank you in advance for your participation.

— Nate Reagen, Office of the President

For Faculty, For Staff

Farewell Celebration For Matt Miller Oct. 9

Please join us in recognizing and celebrating Matt Miller, director of conferences and events, for his service to the University. An informal, farewell gathering will be held Thursday, Oct. 9, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in the Drake Room, Olmsted Center.

Matt is leaving Drake University (his last day will be Friday, Oct. 10). His journey at Drake spans more than two decades—beginning as a student-athlete, continuing through his impactful work with Athletics, and culminating in his leadership in Conferences and Events.

Matt’s dedication, energy, and deep commitment to the Drake community has left a lasting mark. His contributions have shaped countless campus experiences, and his presence will be greatly missed.

We invite you to an informal going-away gathering to thank Matt and wish him well in his next chapter:

📅 Thursday, October 9

🕧 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM

📍 Drake Room, Olmsted Center

Let’s come together to celebrate Matt’s legacy and send him off with our appreciation and best wishes!

— Scott Law, Public Safety & Operational Services

Campus Announcements Archive

Sustainability Committee

Are you interested in being a part of sustainability initiatives on campus? The Sustainability Committee is a great way to get involved. The focus of this year will be on communication and incorporating sustainability into curriculum in all departments. This committee is open to any interested students, staff, and faculty.

If you are interested or have any questions, email sustainability@drake.edu or Sydney.dvorak@drake.edu to be added to the email list. The first meeting will occur in October, based on committee members availability.

— Sydney Dvorak, Sustainability Coordinator