Drake University has been honored with the Presidential Medal of Merit from the Republic of Kosovo, a prestigious award bestowed by the President of Kosovo to recognize individuals or organizations for their significant contributions to the nation.
Ryan Wise, dean of the Drake University School of Education, traveled to Pristina, Kosovo, and attended a formal ceremony on Feb. 18. Pristina is the capital of Kosovo, which is located in southeast Europe. Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu presented the Presidential Medal of Merit award to Dean Wise to honor the connection between Kosovo and Drake University.
“We are very pleased to receive this award from President Osmani Sadriu in recognition of our ongoing partnership with the Republic of Kosovo,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “Our relationship with the Republic of Kosovo is multifaceted and impactful, rooted in the historic ties that bind our two nations. We greatly value our partnership and look forward to many years of us jointly deploying education as the tool for helping those we serve achieve their fullest potential.”
While in Kosovo, Dean Wise met with the rector of the University of Pristina to discuss new partnerships, such as academic exchanges and research opportunities. He also visited a K-12 international school to explore potential new student teaching placements.
Iowa-Kosovo Connection
Iowa and Kosovo have been sister states since 2013. A significant aspect of their relationship is the Kosovo consulate in downtown Des Moines, established in 2016. It is the only foreign diplomatic office in the state of Iowa.
In 2023, President Vjosa Osmani visited Drake University as part of a week-long trip to Des Moines. During her visit, Drake announced a new academic cooperation agreement with the University of Pristina in Kosovo and also presented her with an Honorary Global Citizenship Award in recognition of advancing global understanding and opportunities. The University of Pristina is the largest higher education institution in Kosovo. The partnership supports educational, cultural, and research collaboration between Drake and the University of Pristina, including exchange opportunities for students, faculty, scholars, and staff.
Visit drake.edu/global to learn more about Drake University’s global engagement efforts.