Upcoming Sessions
AUGUST 19 | NOON CT | VIRTUAL
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.
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.
Have an idea for a session? Email alumni@drake.edu.
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