A national search for Drake’s next provost is set to begin in the fall
After nearly a decade of service to Drake University, Provost Sue Mattison has announced her plans to retire at the end of the 2025–2026 academic year. A national search for Drake’s next provost will begin at the start of the Fall 2025 semester.
Provost Mattison is one of the longest-tenured provosts in the state of Iowa. She has served in her role since 2016, leading the University’s academic division, which includes more than 70 programs of study, 20 graduate degrees, and approximately 305 full-time faculty, as well as Cowles Library, the Office of Student Life, and other related University operations. Under Mattison’s direction, the University has created many new academic programs and experiential learning opportunities, including developing the first artificial intelligence undergraduate major in the country.
“Provost Mattison has been an exceptional leader and an esteemed colleague, and I’m beyond grateful for her unwavering commitment these last 10 years,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “She has tirelessly dedicated the pinnacle of her career to fulfilling Drake’s mission, and our University is better for her doing so. I wish her all the best as she begins this new chapter of her life.”
During her almost 10-year tenure, Provost Mattison spearheaded the growth of online education at Drake and championed diversity, equity, and inclusive efforts on campus—enhancing Drake as a place of belonging for all. She successfully led the University through a reaccreditation process by the Higher Learning Commission, created a model for faculty salary adjustments and prioritized financial support to address inequities, recruited and hired many new deans and members of Provost’s Council, and oversaw the development of multiple local and global academic partnerships.
Martin credited Mattison for her leadership during the pandemic saying, “Provost Mattison’s expertise as an epidemiologist was instrumental in helping Drake navigate an extremely challenging time—all while ensuring our students continued to receive an exceptional educational experience.”
Mattison holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Northern Iowa and a doctorate degree in epidemiology from the University of Iowa. Prior to her role at Drake University, she served in administrative roles at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa. She has been a faculty member at the University of Northern Iowa since 1990.
When asked what she will miss most about Drake, Mattison said the people. “Serving as provost of Drake University has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside such remarkable and talented colleagues and students.”
Mattison’s retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable career dedicated to education and service. Once retired, she and her husband, Todd, plan to spend more time visiting their two daughters who live in New York and Chicago, and volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Together, they have participated in six international home builds with the nonprofit organization and are excited to continue that work.