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....
Category: Official News Releases
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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...
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Drake University Announces Upcoming Retirement of Beloved Live Mascot, Griff II
Celebrations to continue through the spring, Griff III to be revealed later this week Drake University announced today that Griff II, the cherished English Bulldog who has served as the University’s official live mascot for the past six years, is retiring in May 2026 at the end of the current academic year. Drake has prepared...
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The Comparison Project to Host Meditation Fair Dec. 6
On Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., The Comparison Project will host a “Meditation Fair” in Meredith Hall on Drake University’s campus. The event is free and open to the public and will feature meditation instructors representing many different religious and spiritual traditions and techniques. Light breakfast fare will be available. Attendees...
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Drake University Receives 6th Consecutive CPN Seal for Commitment to Student Safety, Achieves “Dynasty Status”
For the sixth consecutive year, Drake University secured the 2025 Campus Prevention Network (CPN) Seal of Prevention™. The CPN Seal of Prevention, presented by Vector Solutions, recognizes institutions of higher education that demonstrate exceptional leadership in student safety and well-being. Drake’s consistent record of excellence has earned the institution the status of “Dynasty University,” a...
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Drake University Theatre Arts Presents Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar
Drake University Theatre Arts invites audiences to its final production of the fall semester, Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Performances will take place Nov. 20–22 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Hall at the Harmon Fine Arts Center on Drake University’s campus. Adapted and directed by Drake University Associate Professor...
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Remembering University Benefactor and Longtime Trustee Bill Knapp
The following message was sent to the campus community from President Marty Martin on Nov. 17, 2025. I am deeply saddened to share that Bill Knapp, a dear friend and one of the University’s most devoted benefactors, passed away Saturday at the age of 99. Bill was a longtime member of the University’s Board of...