The Ones Creating Access to Opportunity
University for all
The time is ripe for a more robust model of higher education that fully embraces opportunity as a fundamental right. Drake will enhance programs and partnerships that connect every generation within our campus and sphere of influence. We will empower individuals of all ages and from all backgrounds to enhance their lives and the lives of others through education.
Investment areas include:
The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center—One of the nation’s leading institutes for providing character education. The Ray Center’s programming reaches youth from early childhood through college-age, including the CHARACTER COUNTS! initiative that serves eight million youth worldwide.
Gregory & Suzie Glazer Burt Boys & Girls Club—Funding will support scholarships and programming to further strengthen the University’s relationship with the club and make Drake more accessible to its members.
Crew Scholars—Crew is one of Drake’s most successful programs designed to recruit, retain and support students of color.
John Dee Bright College—A two-year program that is unique tailored to meet the needs of a diverse cohort of students. Bright College’s innovative and distinctive curriculum provides hands-on high-impact learning experiences and serves as an accelerator for career development.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Drake—Formerly the RaySociety, OLLI is a program designed for people ages 50 and older who seek opportunities for lifelong learning to enrich their lives in a collegial environment of sharing and fellowship.
Bringing Children’s Laughter to Campus
Suzie Glazer Burt had a vision for a Boys & Girls Club at Drake University. Today, members of her and her late husband's namesake club are running, playing, and learning on campus and imagining themselves as future Drake Bulldogs.