Paul and Claudia Schickler’s leadership gift to The Ones will enhance two causes close to their heart: rural America and Drake University.
The Schicklers have donated $2 million for the Jay N. Darling Institute to address the social, economic, and conservation challenges facing rural communities.
"Rural Americans were our customers for the more than four decades I worked for Pioneer," said Paul, BN’74, GR’83, former DuPont Pioneer president and Drake University trustee. “Claudia and I are proud to work with Drake faculty to shape a program that makes concrete, positive change in the lives of rural residents.”
The Schicklers, avid fans of the Drake Bulldogs, have also given $1 million to support the men’s basketball program and $3 million to elevate the fan experience at the Knapp Center.
"Drake athletics are a unifying force," Paul said. "Cheering on Des Moines’ hometown team builds deeper bonds between Drake students, alumni, and all residents of Greater Des Moines. Claudia and I are happy to give back to teams and facilities that have brought us years of excitement."
Ron and Jane Olson are longtime advocates for Drake University. Building on their commitment, the couple made a $5 million gift to name and advance The Ron and Jane Olson Center for Public Democracy.
“Jane and I are proud to support the continued growth of Drake and specifically the University’s mission to revitalize democracy and create a hub for democratic discourse, dialogue, and action focused on nurturing a healthy democracy,” said Ron, BN’63. “We believe in the power of engaged citizens and are honored to play a role in fostering the next generation of public servants through the immersive learning experiences the Center will offer.”
The Olsons’ legacy of service and philanthropy at Drake University dates back more than 40 years. Ron and Jane have supported a broad range of programs at Drake, including the Drake football program and Drake Stadium improvements, John Dee Bright College, The Drake Fund, and the Ron and Jane Olson Endowed Fund for Global Service.
Ron’s relationship with Drake began as a student in 1959. During Ron’s time at Drake, he excelled academically and in extra-curricular activities, including serving as the student body vice president and playing halfback on the football team. After graduation, he served multiple terms on the Board of Trustees from 1976 to 1987 and from 2001 to 2003.
Ron is a distinguished and well-respected attorney with the law firm Munger Tolles & Olson, where he has represented leading companies in aerospace, entertainment, petroleum, technology, retailing, and law. In addition, he has had an active pro bono practice that led to the naming of the new LA Legal Aid building as the Ron Olson Justice Center. His board service has included Berkshire Hathaway Incorporated and numerous nonprofits, including the chairmanship of the RAND Corporation.
Jane has dedicated the last 40 years to global humanitarian work. Much of that work closely aligned with the goals of The Olson Center for Public Democracy. She has worked with The International Rescue Committee and spent several decades working to broaden the base of Human Rights Watch, including a seven-year stint as its international board chair. She is a published author of World Citizen, Journeys of a Humanitarian, and is a frequent speaker nationally, including at The Harkin Institute at Drake.
“We are deeply grateful for Ron and Jane’s generosity and honored to name the Center for Public Democracy on their behalf,” says Drake President Marty Martin. “Drake University has long been a leader in civic engagement. This gift from the Olsons is an investment in educating the next generation of public servants and engaged citizens who will go on to strengthen and transform our local, state, national, and global communities.”
