The Iowa United Nations Association is proud to offer students at colleges and universities throughout Iowa the opportunity to join our advocacy efforts in support of the United Nations’ work on human rights, global health, sustainable development, gender equity, and climate action. The Iowa UNA will offer up to 10 students the opportunity to serve as College Ambassadors. Selected students will each receive $500 as a stipend. During this academic-year program, ambassadors will work with the Debra DeLaet, Executive Director of the Iowa UNA, and other volunteer leaders to amplify our advocacy messages on their home campuses and through their social media networks.

The deadline for applying is June 30. Please contact Professor Debra Delaet (debra.delaet@drake.edu) for detailed application instructions.

— Heath Henderson, Zimpleman College of Business

Father’s Day is June 16, and at the Bulldog Shop you’ll find thoughtful gifts to celebrate the Drake dad in your life. Need a little inspiration? Check out these favorites:

Drake University Dad Crewneck – A cozy favorite he’ll wear with pride.

Drake Nike Polo – A timeless piece that brings Bulldog style wherever he goes.

Drake University Dad Mug – A daily reminder of his Bulldog pride—perfect for his morning routine.

Shop now—Father’s Day will be here before you know it!

— Bulldog Shop

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