Drake University announced today thatcwill conclude his service as the University’s Ambassador-in-Residence. Ambassador Branstad, a distinguished alumnus of the Drake University Law School, has served in the residency role since November 2021.
During his tenure, Ambassador Branstad leveraged his decades of public service to enrich the Drake community through his unique insights into leadership, international relations, and global citizenship. His work has been particularly impactful in fostering citizen-to-citizen diplomacy during a period of increasing geopolitical complexity.
“It has been an honor to have Ambassador Branstad return to our campus community to serve as Ambassador-in-Residence,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “Shaped by his service as both Governor of Iowa and U.S. Ambassador to China, his experience and perspective have provided our students with invaluable insight into the intricacies of foreign affairs. Ambassador Branstad’s dedication to intercultural learning has opened new doors for our institution and expanded opportunities for our students both here and abroad.”
A hallmark of Ambassador Branstad’s residency was his leadership of the U.S.-China Symposium, which Drake hosted for three years. The symposium brought high-caliber speakers and distinguished experts to Des Moines, elevating the dialogue surrounding U.S.-China relations at a critical moment in history. Additionally, Ambassador Branstad was instrumental in establishing a meaningful academic dual-degree partnership between Drake University and Qingdao University, advancing the University’s global learning opportunities.
Drake University’s commitment to these global connections was a central pillar of the Ambassador-in-Residence role. Reflecting on this mission, Ambassador Branstad emphasized the necessity of maintaining Iowa’s role as a hub for international scholarship.
“I have always valued the importance of education exchanges as a means of fostering international understanding,” said Ambassador Branstad. “We should encourage, not limit, the ability of our higher education institutions to seek the best talent possible from all corners of the globe. It is critical for our country and our universities to continue welcoming scholars and academics from around the world to strengthen our own pursuit of groundbreaking research and freedom of expression. I’m proud of the work we’ve done at Drake University to open those doors.”
Ambassador Branstad’s contributions have inspired many within the Drake community to consider their own roles in global understanding and fellowship. The University is proud to count him among its most distinguished alumni and expresses deep gratitude for his commitment to the values of leadership and service.
Drake University remains deeply committed to preparing students for responsible global citizenship through efforts including transnational education and study abroad opportunities, welcoming international scholars and students to our campus each year, and infusing global understanding into every facet of the Drake experience. Learn more at drake.edu/global.