Alumni Awards Recipients

Alumni Loyalty Award – Frank Ursini, BN’73

Frank Ursini, a 1973 graduate of Drake University’s College of Business Administration and Management, has cultivated a life marked by professional success and unwavering dedication to his alma mater. During his time at Drake (1969–1973), Frank immersed himself in campus life, participating in hockey, serving as a dormitory residence social and intramural chairman, and even coaching youth sports in Des Moines.

After earning his bachelor’s degree, Frank embarked on a remarkable 50-year career as a leading manufacturer’s representative, building a successful small business that served numerous marquee brands. His dedication and expertise earned him numerous industry awards and, more importantly, fostered lasting relationships with customers across generations.

Despite his professional commitments in the Chicago area, where he resides in Glenview, Illinois, Frank has remained deeply connected to Drake University. He has been a driving force behind the Chicagoland alumni community, organizing and chairing numerous Windy City Golf Outings. Notably, he served on the golf outing committee from 1994-2008 and 2018-2019 and was recognized as the “auctioneer extraordinaire” each year, raising funds for Drake’s Chicago Alumni Scholarship Fund. He is an active member of the alumni association, a regular attendee at Drake basketball games both in Des Moines and on the road, and a fixture at the annual Drake Relays each spring. He also maintains close ties with a network of Drake alumni friends and has served on multiple reunion committees.

Frank’s enthusiasm for Drake athletics was recently on display at the 2025 Missouri Valley Conference men’s basketball tournament in St. Louis, where he cheered on the Bulldogs in the championship game, even donning a white dress shirt and blue tie in homage to Coach Ben McCollum.

His commitment to Drake extends to his personal life. Frank and his wife, Susan (Colloton) Ursini, ED’75, will celebrate Susan’s 50th reunion with their fellow classmates in April.

Frank Ursini’s enduring connection to Drake University, coupled with his impressive career achievements, exemplifies the spirit of a true Bulldog.

Alumni Loyalty Award honors an alumnus or alumna for his or her commitment and dedicated service to Drake University.

Alumni Achievement Award – Lee Ann Colacioppo, JO’86

Lee Ann Colacioppo, a Denver native, forged the foundation for her distinguished journalism career at Drake University from 1982 to 1986. Graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, she demonstrated early on her commitment to journalistic excellence. Her time at Drake was marked by active participation in campus life, serving as a staff writer and features editor for the Times-Delphic. She was also a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority.

Further enhancing her education, she received a Cox Fellowship, which provided a valuable semester internship in Washington, D.C., and also interned at The Des Moines Register. Notably, she studied under legendary Drake professors Bob Woodward and Joe Patrick— experiences that undoubtedly shaped her journalistic perspective.

Colacioppo’s professional journey began at the Times-News in Kingsport, Tennessee (1986–1990), where she honed her skills covering local government and later served as business editor. She then moved to the Greenville News in Greenville, South Carolina (1990–1997), initially as a business writer covering manufacturing, before rising to business editor and then assistant city editor. During her tenure, she led the paper’s coverage of the highly publicized Susan Smith case in 1994 and earned a second-place National Headliner Award for her work on a 1996 environmental story.

In 1997, Colacioppo returned to Des Moines, serving as an assistant city editor at The Des Moines Register, overseeing local government coverage. Two years later, she joined The Denver Post, her hometown newspaper, as assistant city editor. Over the years, she advanced through various roles, including city editor, investigations editor, and news director, ultimately making history as the newspaper’s first female editor in 2016.

Her contributions at The Denver Post played a crucial role in the newspaper’s Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage of the 2012 Aurora theater shooting. She has consistently led the organization to recognition as Colorado’s outstanding news organization. Facing the challenges of a shrinking industry, she has navigated the complexities of maintaining journalistic integrity and delivering quality news with reduced resources.

Colacioppo is also deeply committed to the journalism community, serving on the boards of the Colorado Press Association and the Denver Post Community Foundation. She has remained connected to her alma mater, participating in the Drake University National Alumni Association’s “Back to Class” online event in February 2022 and returning to campus in March 2024 for the 45th Annual Bucksbaum Distinguished Lectureship featuring Liz Cheney, where she also engaged with students in a public affairs reporting class.

A lifelong passion for journalism, sparked in junior high by a desire to “know everything first,” has driven Colacioppo’s remarkable career, making her a respected leader in the field and a proud Drake University alumna.

Alumni Achievement Award honors alumni for outstanding achievement in their career or profession.

Community Service Award – Deidre DeJear, JO’08

Deidre DeJear, a proud Drake University alumna, is President and CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood, Iowa’s largest affordable housing organization. She leads efforts to enrich diverse communities through exceptional housing and inclusive support services, fostering an environment where children achieve, families thrive, and pathways to personal and economic empowerment are created.

DeJear’s journey of leadership and service began during her transformative years at Drake University. From 2004 to 2008, she immersed herself in campus life, demonstrating a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. She served as Diversity Interest Senator, was an executive member of the Coalition of Black Students, and contributed to the School of Journalism and Mass Communications Diversity Committee. She was also involved in the NAACP, the Drake University Multicultural Roundtable, Delta Theta Phi Fraternity, the University Hearing Panel, and the Board of Student Communications, and served as a field reporter for Drake Relays. Her active engagement at Drake laid the foundation for her future endeavors.

DeJear’s dedication was recognized with numerous accolades, including Drake University’s Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and First-Year Student of the Year awards. She was also named Miss Black Iowa in 2009 and 2010, and Miss Iowa Juneteenth from 2006 to 2008. She was also a 2005 graduate of the Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute at Drake.

Even as a college student in 2005, DeJear co-founded Back 2 School Iowa, an initiative she continues to champion, providing school supplies and support services to more than 1,500 children annually.

Following her graduation, DeJear continued to serve her community by founding Caleo Enterprises in 2008, an agency focused on financial education and small business development. Her clients included United Way of Central Iowa, Financial Empowerment Center, The Directors Council, DMACC and Oakridge Neighborhood. In 2022 Deidre became the first African American nominated for Governor in Iowa’s history.

DeJear remains deeply connected to her alma mater, volunteering with the Black Alumni Association, continuing to champion the Back 2 School Bash, visiting campus as a guest speaker, facilitating Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit to Drake, and faithfully attending the Drake Relays.

Her commitment to service extends to her board memberships with the City of Des Moines Housing Services, The Directors Council, Wright Foundation, and Healthy Birth Day. She is a member and officer of the Des Moines Chapter of The Links Incorporated, and she has served on the boards of the Des Moines League of Women Voters, By Degrees, Iowa Community Capital CDFI, and others.

DeJear’s achievements have been widely recognized, including being named a Des Moines Register Person to Watch (2025), a Business Record Book of Lists #5 Most Influential Business Leader (2025), a Business Publications Cultural Leader Newcomer of the Year (2024) and Top Business Leader (2024), Iowa Association of Business and Industry Leadership Iowa graduate (2021-2022), and receiving awards such as Women of Influence Emerging Leader (2019), Joanne Zimmerman Activist Award (2019), Young Women’s Resource – Louise Noun Visionary Award (2019), Business Publications Forty Under 40 (2018), and Small Business Administration Minority Business Champion of the Year (2017).

Raised in Jackson, Mississippi, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Deirdre lives in Des Moines with her husband Marvin and dog Macy.

Community Service Award recognizes the significant accomplishments of alumni who have engaged in outstanding and meaningful community service.

Community Service Award – Hosea James Givan II, LA’82

Hosea James Givan II, a distinguished Drake University alumnus, has dedicated his life to inspiring others and transforming communities. His journey began at Drake University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in public administration from 1978 to 1982. During his time on campus, he was an active member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., served as a resident assistant, and worked as a Drake Fieldhouse supervisor, laying the foundation for his future leadership roles.

Givan’s academic pursuits extended beyond Drake, earning a Master of Science from Long Island University, a Master of Professional Studies from Alliance Theological Seminary, and an Honorary Doctoral of Humane Letters degree from CICA International University.

His career is marked by a diverse range of accomplishments. He served as an adjunct professor at Manhattanville College, a political consultant, and a retired (June 2020) NYC Department of Education guidance counselor. He previously taught special education and was an elementary school dean at public school (P.S.) 118, the school he first attended, in Hollis, Queens, NY.

Givan’s commitment to community leadership is evident in his role as the host of the weekly public access television program “IGNITE! EMPOWER! TRANSFORM!” and his involvement with the South Bronx Emergency Network. He also became an official with USA Swimming in 2017.

His extensive experience includes serving as Executive Director of the NYS Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus, the first Co-Commissioner of the Nike Swoosh All-Metro Basketball Tournament, and a Spokesperson for Chase Manhattan Bank’s Community Development Corporation. As an AAU basketball coach, he led his 2007 fourth-grade team to a No. 1 national ranking.

Givan’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Malik Fraternity Community Service Award, The Association of College Unions International Leadership Award, Outstanding Man of America, The Negro College Fund’s Fredrick D. Patterson Award for Political Leadership, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity – Community Service Award (NYS), Omega Psi Phi Fraternity – Epsilon Chapter’s Citizen of The Year Award (NYC), Zeta Phi Beta’s Educator of the Year (NY), New York Liberty Service Award, New York Knicks Community Service Award, MLK Jr. Living the Dream Award, and a Congressional Achievement Award.

He has appeared on various television and radio programs, and his experiences have been featured in print media. In 2001, his life story was part of the national exhibit “The Long Walk of Freedom,” honoring youth activists in NYC. Urban Influence Magazine listed him among the 2009 Men of Influence.

In 2011, Givan co-wrote the song “Give Back.” In December 2022, he screened his documentary, “The First,” at Drake University, telling the story of the first Black fraternity in central Iowa, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., of which he is a life member.

Givan has been a member of numerous organizations, including Kiwanis, Prince Hall Masons, the Wesley Foundation, NAACP, Queens County Martin Luther King Commission, Urban League of Albany, The Black/Korean Mediation Project, York College President Advisory Board, The Queens Black-Jewish People Project, and 100 Black Men of Long Island. He was commissioner of the Alpha Eagles Basketball League and co-chair of the Men’s Auxiliary Committee for Jack and Jill, Inc.

He is the author of “Reach Your Community” and has completed his second book, “Son of a Harlem Girl,” and will launch a series of children’s books in 2025. His primary goal is to impact millions through The National Give Back for Kids Campaign, Inc., which he co-founded and currently chairs.

Givan is married to Rachel Cheeks-Givan, and they have a daughter, Rebekah, an award-winning public-access cable TV host. His life’s mission is to “inspire others to help others, with the end result of transforming the world into a more humane society.”

Community Service Award recognizes the significant accomplishments of alumni who have engaged in outstanding and meaningful community service.

Distinguished Alumni Award – Cain Hayes, BN’92

Cain A. Hayes, a distinguished alumnus of Drake University’s College of Business, has built a remarkable career driven by the profound belief in the transformative power of equitable healthcare to uplift lives and strengthen communities. This conviction was central to his leadership at Point32Health, where, as President and CEO, he spearheaded the successful merger of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, two of New England’s most respected healthcare entities based in Boston. This strategic union created a $9 billion health and wellness organization serving 2.2 million members across New England.

Hayes’ commitment to equity was immediately evident at Point32Health, which, under his guidance, became one of the first health plans in the United States to achieve full Health Equity Accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). This landmark achievement underscored his dedication to actively reducing health disparities and fostering inclusive care. During his tenure, Point32Health launched more than 70 targeted initiatives addressing critical disparities in maternal health, renal disease, and access to care in rural communities. Furthermore, for three consecutive years, Point32Health was named to Points of Light’s The Civic 50, recognizing the organization’s deep-seated commitment to corporate citizenship and impactful community engagement.

Hayes’ strategic leadership approach to whole-person care is rooted in his extensive experience across both healthcare and financial services. Prior to Point32Health, as President and CEO of Gateway Health, a leading managed care organization in Pittsburgh, he cultivated a strong culture centered on quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service. As President and COO of the Health Business for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, he spearheaded initiatives that significantly enhanced care delivery and operational efficiency. His tenure at Aetna as President of the National Accounts division tasked him with managing a $9 billion business and leading transformative initiatives that improved access to care and positive health outcomes for more than 7 million members throughout North America.

Hayes’ foundational experiences were cultivated during his time at Drake University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He was an active member of the Delta Sigma Pi professional business fraternity and a dedicated shortstop for the Drake University Baseball Club. Demonstrating early professional acumen, he was recognized as the College Agent of the Year by Northwestern Mutual Life during his senior year, an achievement that launched his successful career in financial services with leadership roles at Principal Financial Group and Nationwide Insurance, helping organizations and their employees achieve financial security in retirement.

Hayes has remained deeply connected to his alma mater, embodying the spirit of a committed alumnus. He has generously funded two named scholarships, providing opportunities for future Drake students. His significant contribution to the campus environment is further recognized through the Cain A. Hayes Student Commons. He served with distinction on the Drake University Board of Trustees for a decade (2011–2021) and returned to campus as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Drake University Black Alumni Reunion, sharing his insights and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Hayes is a life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, and currently lends his expertise to the boards of directors of DocuSign, The Andy Warhol Museum, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston. He previously served on the board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. In 2024, his exceptional leadership was recognized by Savoy Magazine as one of the Most Influential Executives in Corporate America. Hayes also holds a master's degree in business administration from Webster University and earned the Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

Cain A. Hayes’ distinguished career stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare, impactful community engagement, and the enduring values instilled during his formative years at Drake University. His leadership continues to shape the healthcare landscape and inspire future generations to strive for a healthier and more equitable world.

Distinguished Alumni Award is the top honor bestowed upon alumni of Drake, recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual in a career or profession and exemplary service to the community and University.

Young Alumni Achievement Award – Sarah Porter, ED’16

Drake University alumna Sarah Porter, who graduated in 2016 with her Bachelors of Science in elementary education from Drake’s School of Education, has emerged as a dynamic leader in the startup world, driven by a passion for education, technology, and healthcare innovation. While at Drake, she was an active member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Theta Eta Chapter, where she engaged in volunteer work with the School of Education and Alpha Phi Omega (APO). Her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education was earned with endorsements in Special Education and Reading, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to empowering others. Notably, during her undergraduate years, she gained valuable practical experience as an educator at Principal Child Development Center.

Sarah’s commitment to continuous learning led her to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Iowa, which she completed in 2022. Her academic pursuits extended beyond her major, as she also collaborated with professors in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Drake, exploring intersections within healthcare, and she maintains connections with former pharmacy students.

Following her graduation from Drake, Sarah transitioned into a successful sales career, beginning at State Farm, where she quickly achieved recognition, earning the prestigious Hall of Fame award. She then ventured into the startup arena, contributing to the growth of education technology and human resource technology companies. Her achievements include “Rookie of the Year” and “Most New Accounts” awards from Packback in 2018.

Driven by a personal experience with misdiagnosis, Sarah founded MedDefend in 2022 in Des Moines, Iowa, where she serves as CEO. MedDefend leverages AI-powered care navigation and clinical insights to reduce diagnostic timelines for individuals with chronic and autoimmune conditions. Her work has garnered national attention, with features in The Wall Street Journal and Venture News. The company’s launch was celebrated with a Times Square billboard, and she has secured early investments from Techstars and JP Morgan Chase.

Beyond MedDefend, Sarah is involved with the VC firm Minerva Fund and hosts two podcasts: “The Capital Maze,” which demystifies the process of securing capital for founders, and “The Medical Maze,” which highlights global stories of misdiagnosis.

Sarah remains connected to her alma mater by coaching Drake alumni interested in breaking into the tech industry. She is also passionate about giving back to her community, actively volunteering with organizations that help underserved communities enter the tech field.

Sarah Porter’s multifaceted career, blending educational expertise with entrepreneurial drive, exemplifies her commitment to making a tangible impact on the world.

Young Alumni Achievement Award honors alumni, age 40 or younger, for outstanding achievement in their career or profession.

Young Alumni Loyalty Award – Tony Tandeski, JO’08

Tony Tandeski’s deep connection to Drake University began the moment he stepped onto campus, culminating in his graduation with a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication in 2008 and a lifelong commitment to service and engagement. During his time as a student, Tony immersed himself in the Drake experience, actively participating in a remarkable array of clubs and organizations that laid the foundation for his future leadership.

His dedication to the student experience was evident through his three years with Residence Life, serving as a Resident Assistant for two years (2005–2007) and as an Assistant Residence Hall Coordinator in his senior year (2007–2008). This hands-on involvement in creating a supportive and vibrant living environment showcased his early commitment to fostering community at Drake.

Beyond Residence Life, Tony’s passion for campus life extended to numerous other organizations. He was an active member of the Student Activities Board and the Residence Hall Association, contributing to the planning and execution of campus events. His pride in his alma mater was clear through his involvement with the Future Alumni Network, where he served as Vice President of Traditions, helping to shape and preserve the cherished customs of Drake.

Tony also explored his interests in media and communication through his participation in the Times-Delphic student newspaper, the Drake Broadcasting System, and as a DrakeLINE News Anchor. His involvement with KDCS Radio further highlights his diverse engagement on campus. Recognizing the importance of leadership development, Tony participated in the prestigious Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute and proudly represented the University as part of Homecoming Court. His commitment to the institution's future was further demonstrated through his service on the Campus Advancement Committee.

Since graduating, Tony’s dedication to Drake has only deepened. He has been an active and valued member of the Drake Young Alumni Board/Central Iowa Regional Alumni Board since 2015, continuously working to connect with and support fellow alumni. His commitment to fostering an inclusive campus environment is evident through his involvement with the Drake University LGBTQ+ Advisory Board. Furthermore, Tony has directly contributed to the student experience through his work with the Rook Room on campus and by participating in various alumni programs such as Let's DU Lunch, consistently giving back his time and expertise to the Drake community.

Professionally, Tony has built a successful career in media, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship. He honed his skills as a TV News Producer and Executive Producer at stations in California and Wisconsin before returning to Des Moines. In Des Moines, he held roles as a Web Developer and SEO Manager, Digital Project Manager and SEO Manager, and currently serves as an SEO and Data Analytics Manager at ClearanceJobs since 2018. His entrepreneurial spirit shines through as the Co-Owner of the Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe in Des Moines since 2019, a venture that further connects him with the local community.

Tony’s professional and community contributions have been recognized through accolades such as being named to the Des Moines Business Record Forty Under 40 Class of 2023, receiving the Des Moines Playhouse Gypsy Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016, and being selected as a Game Manufacturers Association Horizons Fellow in 2025. He also actively contributes to his local community as a Beaverdale Fall Festival Board Member since 2022.

Through his extensive involvement as a student, his continued engagement as an alumnus, and his impactful contributions to the broader community, Tony Tandeski embodies the spirit of Drake University. His unwavering commitment and dedicated service are an inspiring example of a Bulldog who continues to make a meaningful difference.

Young Alumni Loyalty Award honors alumni age 40 or younger for commitment and dedicated service to Drake.

Young Alumni Loyalty Award – Annelise Tarnowski, AS’15, JO’15

Annelise Tarnowski is a dynamic professional whose career is defined by her commitment to non-profit development, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to community involvement. A proud alumna of Drake University, Annelise’s passion for service and leadership was evident during her time as a student and has continued to flourish in her professional and personal endeavors.

In 2015, Annelise graduated with honors from Drake University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication (radio and TV producing) and a Bachelor of Arts in sociology. Her academic achievements were distinguished by the prestigious Oreon E. Scott Award, an honor that recognized her exceptional contributions and leadership, culminating in her selection to speak at commencement on behalf of her graduating class. This honor speaks volumes about her dedication and the high regard in which she was held by her peers and the University.

Annelise has seamlessly blended her passion for community with her professional pursuits. She is the Co-Founder and Co-Owner of The Rook Room, alongside Tandeski. In this role, she manages numerous monthly events and handles the business’s bookkeeping, demonstrating her entrepreneurial acumen and commitment to creating engaging community spaces. The Rook Room’s recognition as a Flourish Fund Finalist in 2023 highlights the success and impact of her entrepreneurial efforts.

Annelise previously served as the Manager, Membership Team at Iowa Public Radio. In this key position, she managed a complex direct mail fundraising program across multiple segments, showcasing her expertise in development and fundraising strategies. Annelise also managed quarterly on-air fundraising campaigns, coordinated the efforts of more than 75 employees, and oversaw 60+ hours of content, demonstrating her exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Furthermore, she implemented new processes for thank-you gift development and fulfillment, streamlining operations and enhancing donor relations.

Prior to her role at Iowa Public Radio, Annelise served as the Manager of Sustaining Memberships at Friends of Iowa PBS from 2018 to 2022. During her tenure, she demonstrated a remarkable ability to grow recurring donor programs, increasing membership by an average of 1,533 members per year, representing a 9% annual increase. This growth translated to an average increase to $2.5 million per year, a 7% annual increase in funds raised, showcasing her talent for cultivating and expanding donor support. She also implemented new campaigns and reports to effectively measure and improve key performance indicators, including donor retention, changes in monthly giving, and overall program health.

Annelise’s experience in fund development also includes a contract role as Manager of Fund Development at JOPPA from 2017 to 2018. In this role, she created and maintained a grants calendar and application process, successfully securing funding through grant writing. She also launched a recurring donor program, further demonstrating her versatility in development strategies.

Earlier in her career, Annelise served as the Manager of Online Learning at CEImpact from 2015 to 2017. In this role, she designed the user experience for a new Learning Management System, collaborating with technology experts to bring the design to fruition. She also researched, implemented, and provided training to teammates on new technology and software, highlighting her adaptability and skills in technology integration.

Annelise’s commitment to community extends beyond her professional roles. She is actively involved in the Drake Neighborhood Association, and served as Operations Officer. Her dedication to her alma mater is evident through her previous service as President of the Drake University Central Iowa Alumni Board, where she served from 2017 to 2020, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to Drake University and its alumni.

In addition to her professional and community work, Annelise holds a Certificate in Fundraising Copywriting from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy, earned in 2021.

Tarnowski’s multifaceted career, characterized by her success in non-profit development, entrepreneurship, and community leadership, exemplifies her dedication to making a meaningful impact in her community and beyond.

Young Alumni Loyalty Award honors alumni age 40 or younger for commitment and dedicated service to Drake.