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...
Author: Ashton Hockman (Ashton Hockman)
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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 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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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...