Campaign Leadership

Headshot of Drake University President Marty Martin

“This is an exciting moment in Drake’s history. The unprecedented success of The Ones campaign puts Drake on a bold path forward that will benefit students and the many communities we serve for generations to come. When Bulldogs unite with a shared passion and purpose, we accomplish incredible things. I am grateful for our generous donors who believe in our commitment to transform lives and strengthen communities through education, service, and research.”

-- Drake University President Marty Martin

Campaign Co-chairs

Headshot image of Mark Ernst

Mark Ernst, BN'80

The Ones campaign co-chair and Drake Board of Trustee member

    “The outpouring of support for The Ones campaign ensures a strong future for our University that will enrich the lives of generations of Bulldogs to come. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we deeply appreciate the generosity of our alumni and donors whose support for Drake's vision have enhanced the University’s abilities to transform lives, strengthen communities, and equip our students with the tools to build a better future.”

    Headshot of Suzie Glazer Burt

    Suzie Glazer Burt, HDHL'24

    The Ones campaign co-chair and Drake Board of Trustee member

    “The Ones has advanced every area of the University, including creating hundreds of new scholarships, new academic programs and initiatives, new facilities, and new partnerships. The campaign's achievements are truly remarkable and make a clear statement from our alumni and donors that they believe in the power of a Drake education. In the words of my mother, Maddie Levitt—‘Baby, I’m so damn proud of you!"

    Campaign Honorary Chairs

    Bill Buchanan, BN'57
    Chairman of the Board and CEO
    Unified Life

    Steve Nellis, BN'64
    Retired Division General Manager
    Praxair, Inc.

    Debbie Scripps, ED'72**
    Retired Educator and Community Philanthropist

    Jean Buchanan
    Vice Chairman of the Board
    Unified Life

    Ron Olson, BN'63
    Senior Partner
    Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP

    Ric Scripps, ED'70
    Retired Vice President of Administration
    Darr Equipment

    Campaign Steering Committee

    Jonathan Azu,* BN'99
    Founder and CEO
    Culture Collective

    Tom Bernau,* BN'85, LW'88
    President
    Bernau Capital

    Karen Branding,* LA'82
    Senior Vice President
    Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

    Peggy Fisher,* FA'70
    Chair, Drake Board of Trustees
    Strategic Advisor, Stelter Company

    Cyndi Lesher,* LA'70
    Retired President and CEO
    Xcel Energy

    Paul Schickler,* BN’74, GR’83
    Retired President
    DuPont Pioneer

    Ike Vanden Eykel,* BN'71
    Managing Shareholder and CEO
    KoonsFuller PC

    *Serves on the Drake Board of Trustees
    **Trustee Emerita

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    By elevating Drake together, we will secure a more vibrant future for those who follow our footsteps. Join the ones who will transform Drake’s vision into a reality by adding your support to the campaign for the brave & bold.

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