Everclass by Drake University

Drake community voices on
topics that matter.

Topics and talk to fuel your curiosity, creativity, connection, or career potential. Dive deep and explore topics that interest you with sessions by Drake community voices.

Introducing Everclass!

Your way to stay connected to Drake.

This series is designed to inspire Drake alumni and friends to dive into topics that will fuel curiosity, creativity, connection or career potential. All sessions feature a keynote speaker, a panel discussion, or a Q&A style with a moderator. Session categories include career, education, experience, and trending topics.

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Upcoming Sessions

SEPTEMBER 11 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
Inside College Athletics with Brian Hardin: NIL, March Madness & the Making of a Golden Era

Join us for an insider Everclass with Brian Hardin, Des Moines native and Director of Athletics at Drake University. Since 2017, Hardin has led Drake through its “golden era,” marked by record academic, competitive, and fundraising achievements. In this session, Hardin shares candid insights on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and its impact on student-athletes, the evolving responsibilities of a Division I athletic director, and the realities behind NCAA tournament selection and seeding. Learn how he has shaped Drake into Des Moines’ Hometown Team and a national model for success. Don’t miss this conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of college sports.

SEPTEMBER 17 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
Capturing Campus: A Virtual Photo Tour of Drake

Join us for a special Everclass Virtual Campus Tour of Drake University, where past and present come together in a dynamic exploration of campus history, traditions, and transformation. Through photos and personal insights, your guides will take you on a journey highlighting Drake’s most historic buildings, beloved campus traditions, and the exciting changes that have revitalized student life. Get an exclusive look at the new Johansen Student Center, formerly Morehouse Hall, and see how Drake continues to evolve to meet the needs of its students while honoring its rich legacy. Current student, Eli Benson and Drake’s Vice President for University Advancement and an alum, John Smith, will serve as your guides.

OCTOBER 1 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
Pints & Policy: Can Craft Brewing Unite Us?

Craft beer is booming—but can it help reconnect our divided communities? Join Noreen Otto, LW’06, executive director of the Iowa Brewers Guild, for an engaging look at the economic and social impact of craft brewing. She’ll explore shifting consumer habits, emerging policy issues, and the creative evolution of the industry. You’ll also get expert tips for discovering your next favorite beer—even if you’re not an IPA fan. A Wisconsin native and Drake Law grad, Otto brings deep experience in public policy, business leadership, and community engagement to this refreshing conversation.

October 23 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
From ESPN to the Classroom: A Conversation with David Lubbers, JO'86

Join us for an exclusive Everclass session with David Lubbers, JO’86—former ESPN investigative producer and award-winning sports journalist—now Assistant Professor of Multimedia News Journalism at Drake. Over nearly two decades at ESPN, Lubbers produced stories for E:60, Outside the Lines, and SportsCenter, covering everything from Super Bowls to Michael Jordan. A career highlight: interviewing legendary coach John Wooden—and asking about Drake’s 1969 Final Four matchup with UCLA. With multiple Peabody and Emmy Awards, Lubbers brings unmatched storytelling experience and a deep passion for journalism.

December 9 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
From Past to Progress: How the Jay N. Darling Institute Empowers Rural Communities

Join us for an Everclass session on the Jay N. Darling Institute at Drake University, where Darling’s legacy drives action to strengthen rural communities. Building on his 1926 honorary degree, the Institute preserves his work while advancing education, health care, food systems, and economic opportunity across the Midwest. Learn how it equips future leaders, fosters collaboration, and carries forward Darling’s vision. Facilitated by Dr. Keith Summerville, Executive Director.

Have an idea for a session? Email alumni@drake.edu.

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Past Sessions

Team USA, Bulldog Roots: A Conversation with Reed Fischer, AS'17, JO'17
Join us for a special Everclass session featuring two Bulldogs taking their talents to the world stage. Reed Fischer, a 2017 Drake grad and elite marathoner, is headed to Tokyo as part of Team USA after clocking a 2:10:14 at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. Joining him is Blake Boldon, Franklin P. Johnson Director of the Drake Relays, who will serve as Men’s Head Manager for Team USA. The two previously teamed up at international events—and now they reunite at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Hear their stories, insights, and what it means to represent both Team USA and Drake University on a global level.

The New Workplace
The COVID pandemic reshaped how we work, shifting many from office desks to home setups. As organizations consider office-forward, remote-first, or hybrid strategies, employees have their own preferences. In their new book, The New Workplace: Employee Alignment in Remote-First, Office-Forward, and Hybrid Work Organizations, Drake professors Dr. Radostina (Ina) Purvanova, Professor of Organizational Leadership, and Dr. Alanah Mitchell, Aliber Distinguished Professor of Information Systems share research showing that the key to success is alignment. There’s no single “right” model or new normal; instead, choice and flexibility drive results.

Overcome the Holiday Hustle: Simple strategies for an organized life
As the holiday season approaches, many struggle to balance work, family, and tasks, often feeling overwhelmed. This session, led by Kristin Economos, Senior Director of the Adams Leadership Institute at Drake University, will focus on simplifying life with easy routines to stay organized and reduce stress. Learn how to align your calendar, to-do list, and priorities for a more manageable, less stressful holiday season.

Inside the Dugout: Sports Reporting with Carrie Muskat, JO'78
Join us for a conversation with Carrie Muskat, JO’78, a veteran sportswriter with over 30 years of experience, including 18 years covering the Chicago Cubs for MLB.com. Carrie will share insights from her career, including covering the Cubs’ 2016 World Series win and iconic sports moments like Michael Jordan’s switch to baseball. She will offer behind-the-scenes stories and advice for aspiring journalists. This session is perfect for sports fans, aspiring writers, or anyone interested in compelling storytelling from the world of baseball.

Browse all past sessions

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