Nov. 8 is National First Generation Student Day. Drake defines a first-generation student is a college student whose parents/legal guardians have not received a bachelor’s degree from a four-year university. At Drake, First-generation students make up 29% of Drake’s new student population. This includes 26.2% of new EFR students — an all-time high for Drake.

The Office of New Student and Family Programs, Drake First Gen Bulldogs Student Organization and college/school academic offices are partnering to celebrate Drake first generation students, staff, and faculty.

Here are some ways you can get involved in the celebration:

Monday November 4th:

• Zimpleman College of Business – Stop by to sign our sign in the Aliber entryway and share the people who have supported you in your college journey.
• Olmsted Center Breezeway 3-6pm: Snacks, button making and scavenger hunt activity. 

Tuesday, November 5th: 

• Zimpleman College of Business – Donut holes and fruit in the Aliber entryway from 9 – 10am. 
• First-Gen students walk to the polls – Meet in the Olmsted Breezeway at 5:00pm to walk together to the Drake voting location. Off campus students are still welcome to join even if this isn’t their voting location!  

Wednesday, November 6th:

• Zimpleman College of Business – Snacks and selfie station in the Wright Room in Aliber Hall from 1-3 pm. Griff II will visit from 1 – 2pm.
• First-Gen Bulldogs & Unity Round table Collaboration with Broadlawns Counseling Center 5:00pm Olmsted Center 312. We will have a mental health discussion as a group then making a poster and jar with positive affirmations. 

Thursday, November 7th:

• School of Education – Games available near the front desk reception on the first floor of Collier-Scripps Hall. There will be prizes for those who participate in the games and goody bags for First Gen students who stop by the desk.

National First Gen Day- Friday, November 8th: 

• School of Education – Games available near the front desk reception on the first floor of Collier-Scripps Hall. There will be prizes for those who participate in the games and goody bags for First Gen students who stop by the desk.
• College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences – Donuts with the Dean in the Cline Hall Lobby from 10-11am
• Arts & Sciences Student Support Team in Olmsted – Friday November 8th, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Write advice and inspirational notes for future First Gen students on our poster board. We also are here to listen to stories of success, to take note of areas in which we can provide additional support, and to answer questions. It is not too late for candy, swag – or questions about registration!!
• First-Gen Org Tabling in Breezeway 12-4pm – A showcase of famous first-gens and Drake Faculty/Staff will be displayed. Completed scavenger hunts can be turned in to receive a prize. 
• First Gen Faculty/Staff – We would like to offer to provide a First Gen Bulldog sign to hang outside your office door to let students know you are first gen if you are willing to put it up. If you are interested in a sign, please email marina.verlengia@drake.edu.

This collection celebrates the journeys of first-generation college students through memoirs, biographies, and works by first-generation authors. Discover stories of resilience, ambition, and the courage to forge new paths in higher education. Reach out to Cowles Library for additional resources to support your own journey.

—Marina Verlengia, Academic Excellence and Student Success

The Drake University Fall Marketing Management Capstone class has partnered with the Dogtown entertainment district, located within the Drake Neighborhood. Our objective is to cultivate and promote Dogtown as a vibrant, thriving, and safe entertainment destination, and we are seeking your help to achieve this goal! 

This survey will take less than 5 minutes to complete and will close on Friday, November 8th at 11:59 pm. 

Participation is voluntary and responses are anonymous. Survey data will be used by 12 Drake University Marketing Management students, their executive sponsor, Associate Professor Heidi Mannetter, and Drake’s Chief of Staff, Nate Reagen. Upon the completion of the fall ‘24 academic semester, responses may be stored in an archive for future research, but personal data will not be collected or shared.  

Once again, we truly appreciate your time in helping us create a stronger Dogtown community for everyone.  

As a reminder, this survey will close on Friday, November 8th at 11:59 pm, so we urge you to fill it out as soon as possible.  

Thank you in advance for your participation! 

Fall ‘24 Marketing Management Capstone Class 

—Heidi Mannetter, Zimpleman College of Business

Join us as we celebrate the incredible career of Josie Poppen, a treasured member of the Drake Theatre Arts Department and the theatre community at-large who has inspired countless students over the years!

After 37 years of teaching, Josie is laying down her shears and stepping into a well-deserved retirement. Let’s come together to honor her incredible contributions and share stories, laughter, and raise a glass! Please feel free to invite alumni, friends, family and anyone who wishes to celebrate!

—Jacob Lemons, College of Arts & Sciences

As we move into November, Cowles Library is excited to showcase a variety of collections that celebrate important themes and milestones. Join us in honoring the rich cultural heritage reflected in our displays this month.

Iowa’s Great Outdoors
Discover Iowa’s diverse landscapes, history, and architectural wonders through materials that delve into the state’s parks, trails, and historic sites. You’ll be inspired to explore both the natural and man-made beauty of Iowa. The display also includes bike and state maps to help you plan your next adventure and uncover the hidden gems of our state.
Native American Heritage Month
In recognition of Native American Heritage Month, Cowles Library is featuring a collection that spotlights the voices and stories of Native American authors. This selection includes both fiction and nonfiction by Indigenous writers, spanning traditional stories, contemporary narratives, and historical accounts.
Breaking Barriers: The Evolution of Women’s Sports
Join us in celebrating the 50th anniversary of women’s basketball at Drake with a display honoring the legacy of Title IX and its impact on women’s athletics. This collection features nonfiction books that explore the history, challenges, and triumphs of women in sports. Discover the stories of athletes, advocates, and milestones that have shaped the future of women’s athletics.

We invite everyone to visit Cowles Library this month to engage with these displays and celebrate the diverse narratives they represent!

—Joanna Stankiewicz, Cowles Library

Join us on October 23rd from 3-5pm in Upper Olmsted for the second annual Drake Wellness Conference. There will be a variety of free experiences and activities, including massages, meditations and movement!

—Gail Witte, Recreational Services