Students: Before you begin your summer break, I want to inform you of a change to the University’s billing schedule. Tuition and fees for the Fall 2025 semester will be due by August 11, instead of the first day of classes on August 25. By moving the due date up two weeks, we can provide earlier outreach and even greater support in your tuition planning and financial aid needs before the semester begins. 

Here’s what you need to know 

• You will receive your tuition and fees bills two weeks earlier to assist you with more effective budgeting strategies and planning. Bills will be accessible in your student account starting July 18. 

• Fall tuition and fees are due August 11, instead of the first day of classes. 

• You must have your bill paid or a payment plan set up by August 11. 

• There is no change in how you access or pay your bill. Visit the Student Account and Financial Aid section on the student page in myDrake and select Make a Payment. 

• Within the portal, you can also set up a payment plan. 

We recognize that paying for college is a major investment, but one that will propel and serve you for the rest of your life. Drake has resources and dedicated staff ready to help with all your financial questions. Students can connect with our Financial Aid Office to learn more about the various scholarships, grants, loans, and need-based employment programs that Drake offers. For payment plan or billing questions, please contact the Student Accounts Office. 

Thank you for your continued commitment to Drake. Enjoy your summer and we look forward to seeing you back on campus next fall! 

— Julia Gwebu, Director of Student Account Services 

The Bulldog Shop is accepting textbook returns through May 16. Online textbook returns will be accepted through May 30.

Once you’re finished with finals, don’t forget to return your Course Ready rental materials. Returning on campus is quick and easy—no box, packing slip, or shipping label needed. Simply return your materials to the Bulldog Shop on the following days and times:

MON – THU | 9AM – 5PM

FRI | 10AM – 5PM

SAT | 9AM – 4PM

Please note the Bulldog Shop will be closed May 19–26 as Olmsted Center will undergo renovations this summer. The Bulldog Shop will open in a temporary location in the lower level of Hubbell Dining Hall starting on May 27.

Online textbook returns will be accepted through May 30, 2025.

We are excited to share a summer study abroad opportunity through the University of Pristina in Kosovo. This is an extremely affordable opportunity to study abroad, but does have a tight turnaround. If you have availability this summer and are interested in traveling, why not spend the summer in one of the safest and most affordable capital cities in Europe? Earn academic credit and complete an AOI for mostly the cost of a flight and international health insurance. It’s important you already have a valid passport as it’s too late to apply for a new one. Learn more and start your application by visiting Via Global!

— Emily Erschen, Global Engagement

Next Course Food Recovery Network will sponsor a donation drive for students moving out of the residence halls. Unopened food, hygeine products, and school supplies can be placed in marked bins near the entrance of each hall from May 12–16. If bins are full, please bring items to the Olmsted Center, Rooms 310–311, between 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. each day. Members of the campus community are also invited to browse our free table during these times. Volunteers are needed to help sort, track, and distribute daily. Sign up at DUGood.

For questions, contact Next Course Coordinator Caroline Schultz.

— Mallary Allen, Community Engaged Learning

Join Rec Services for an engaging seminar on etiquette when interacting with people with disabilities, designed to help Drake University students foster inclusivity and respectful communication. The seminar will be held Wednesday, April 30, from 1-2 p.m. in the Bell Center, Group Fitness Studio. Gain practical skills to navigate social and professional settings with confidence, ensuring that all individuals feel valued and understood. This interactive session will provide real-world examples and essential guidelines to help create a more inclusive campus community.

Read more 

— Gail Witte, Rec Services

Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa (BUS 067) is a three-credit, two-week course that will run during J-term 2026. The course will take place in and around Kampala, Uganda and will introduce students to a host of development-related topics through daily excursions, including a safari and a boat trip along the Nile River. Interested students can email any questions to Prof. Henderson (heath.henderson@drake.edu) or Prof. Mannetter (heidi.mannetter@drake.edu). Applications can be submitted through Via.

— Heath Henderson

Are you part of a student organization looking to bring exciting, community-focused events to campus? The Holistic Wellness fund, in collaboration with Campus Recreation, Counseling, Student Life, and Access & Success, is launching a brand-new initiative—Second Saturday Social.

We are inviting student organizations to apply for funding to host a social event on the second Saturday of select months: September, October, November, and February. Each event will take place between 7–11 p.m. at either Johansen or Olmsted and will receive $500 in event support from the Holistic Wellness fund.

This is a great opportunity to create fun, engaging, and inclusive experiences for students while fostering wellness, connection, and campus spirit. Whether you envision a game night, open mic, cultural celebration, wellness workshop, or something completely unique—your organization can help shape these dynamic Saturday nights!

Proposal Details:

• Who Can Apply? Any registered student organization
• Funding Available: $500 per event
• Event Timing: Second Saturday of September, October, November, and February (7:00 – 11:00 PM)
• Location: Johansen or Olmsted
• Application Deadline: Friday, May 9

Interested in hosting? Submit your proposal today and bring your vision to life!

For more information and to apply by May 9 at  https://forms.office.com/r/QGpMZr4L2f. Don’t miss this chance to make your mark on campus.

— Laura Shell

Commencement is just around the corner! Don’t forget to purchase your regalia at the Bulldog Shop—available in-store or online—now through graduation day, May 17th. Shop graduation gear online.

Grab a diploma frame so you can proudly display your hard-earned degree to commemorate your great accomplishment!

You’re about to be a Bulldog Alum! Celebrate your time at Drake with official alumni gear, and take that Bulldog spirit with you wherever you go. Shop Alumni Products.

Congrats, Class of 2025!

— The Bulldog Shop