Back to Class: Then and Now

Listen as Don Adams, Drake’s first vice president of students, and Jerry Parker, current dean of students and Adams’ contemporary, discuss Drake student life, then and now. Learn about the triumphs and challenges each has experienced, and how Drake’s mission to prepare students for successful personal and professional lives has been enacted during both of their terms at the helm. The discussion will be moderated by Hope Bibens, University and political papers archivist and assistant professor of librarianship at Drake.

This event is presented in conjunction with The Ray Society.

When: Thursday, December 10 at 2:00 - 3:30 pm CT
Platform: Zoom (Access instructions will be sent to registrants prior to the event.)

Don Adams served as Vice President of Student Life at Drake University from 1969-2007. In 1985 the title vice president for enrollment management was added, and in 1995, Don became the executive assistant to the President. Don retired in 2007 after 27 years at Drake and continues to stay very involved with the University in retirement. The Donald V. Adams Leadership Institute that bears his name was formed in 2000. It is supported by alumni and friends who are passionate about continuing Don’s legacy of leadership.

Jerry Parker began his tenure at Drake University as the associate dean of students. In the fall of 2016, Jerry began serving as the interim dean of students before being permanently appointed in April of 2017. He currently serves as president-elect of the Iowa Student Personnel Association and will serve as president in 2020. Jerry earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas State University and his PhD in higher education administration with a specialization in organizational change and development through the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University.

Hope Bibens is University and political papers archivist and assistant professor of librarianship at Drake. She maintains the Political Papers Collection, including the papers of Sen. Tom Harkin and Congressman Neal Smith as well as the Paul F. Morrison Athletics Collection. Bibens currently serves as the President of the Association of Centers for the Study of Congress. She was the 2016 recipient of the Donald V. Adams Spirit of Drake Award. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Monmouth College, a master’s in American history from Indiana University, and a Master of Library Science from Indiana University.

About the Program: Back to Class features speakers from Drake's campus in a virtual setting. Bulldogs are invited to join from wherever they are to learn about unique topics, hear from voices on campus, and connect with the Drake community.

For event accommodations or questions, please contact Amelia Klatt at amelia.klatt@drake.edu or 515-271-3378.

Registration