Drake University is pleased to announce the appointment of Hope Bibens as the next dean of Cowles Library. Bibens, who currently serves as the associate dean of the library, will assume her new role on July 1, 2026. The appointment was approved by the Drake University Board of Trustees during their January executive session following a recommendation from University leadership. As dean, Bibens will...
Category: Official News Releases
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Drake University’s “Griff-Hog Day” to Predict Weather Conditions for 116th Drake Relays
Forget Punxsutawney Phil, next Monday, Feb. 2, as the nation turns its eyes to Pennsylvania for Groundhog Day, Drake University is launching a spirited new tradition with the inaugural “Griff-Hog Day.” Students, alumni, and fans will gather at Drake Stadium to hear the Griff-Hog’s exclusive prediction on whether the 116th Drake Relays will see clear skies and warm...
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Drake University Names Joseph M. Valenzano III as Next Provost
Drake University is pleased to announce the selection of Joseph M. Valenzano III as the University’s next provost. Valenzano, an accomplished academic leader and communication scholar, currently serves as the Dean of the College of Communication at Butler University. He will officially begin his duties at Drake on July 1, 2026, upon the planned retirement...
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Drake Law Professor Ellen Yee Receives Prestigious Fulbright Specialist Award
Drake University law professor and director of international programs Ellen Yee, J.D., received the highly selective Fulbright Specialist Program award. The U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board granted the award to Professor Yee for her upcoming work in Kosovo. Professor Yee will travel to the University Isa Bolentini Mitrovica in Kosovo...
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Drake Announces New Bachelor of Science in Disability and Rehabilitation Services
Program will help meet growing need for disability support services in the state Drake University announced today the launch of a new Bachelor of Science program in Disability and Rehabilitation Services. Enrollment in the program begins in the Spring 2026 semester. The new major is offered within Drake’s School of Education and is designed to...
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Drake University to Launch Third Faculty-Led Study Abroad Cohort in Seoul, South Korea
Following the success of its semester study abroad cohort programs, DU Spain and DU England, Drake University is launching its third cohort program, DU Korea, in Seoul, South Korea. Beginning in Spring 2027, Drake students will be able to spend a semester in Seoul alongside Drake peers through a partnership with WorldStrides and Konkuk University....
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CBS News Correspondent Steve Hartman Named 2026 Recipient of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award
The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University is proud to announce that Steve Hartman, CBS News Correspondent, has been named as the recipient of the 2026 Robert D. and Billie Ray Pillar of Character Award. This award is The Ray Center’s highest honor, recognizing individuals who exemplify good character as a role...
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Drake University, Griff II Secure Prime Real Estate on New MONOPOLY: Des Moines Edition Board Game
Drake University is celebrating its role as a key fixture in the newly released MONOPOLY: Des Moines Edition, unveiled today by Hasbro and Top Trumps USA. The game’s design spotlights Drake’s deep connection to the city, featuring the University’s beloved live mascot, Griff II, on both the game box cover and the center of the...
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Meet Drake University’s Next Live Mascot, Griff III, Starting May 2026
Successor to Beloved Griff II Officially Revealed Drake University is proud to introduce Griff III, the lovable English Bulldog who will succeed Griff II upon his recently announced retirement in May 2026. The 9-month-old pup is currently receiving “paws-on” training from his predecessor. Griff III will assume his duties as the University’s live mascot in...