14 Comments
User's avatar
Tim Wagner's avatar

This is an incredible statement. I know a few legislators who I'm going to share this with. Thanks, Julie. And thanks to Dr. Martin for his efforts and today's call. It was very timely!

Expand full comment
Joan Corbin's avatar

Dr. Martin’s words encourage me - a brilliant voice speaking out and a gifted leader modeling the courage we all need right now. Bravo!

Expand full comment
Ken Hedler's avatar

Julie, I'll forward your post to a Drake alumnus who lives in Chicago and Scottsdale.

Expand full comment
Sree Nilakanta's avatar

Congratulations to Drake University. Courage of your convictions is a master class for all others! I wish Iowa Board of Regents and their University Presidents followed Drake and its President!

Expand full comment
John Kirsch's avatar

As a Drake graduate, I feel the need to respond.

I have nothing against diversity per se. However, an overemphasis on it can be extremely divisive.

Expand full comment
Tim Wagner's avatar

I'm curious. How is it "extremely divisive?"

Expand full comment
Susan Beckman's avatar

Thank you for sharing Dr. Martin with us, Julie! I will be traveling, but look forward to the replay. Thanks again!

Expand full comment
Kurt Johnson's avatar

Excellent.

Expand full comment
Blue Thoughts From a Red State's avatar

Very much looking forward to your conversation with Dr.Martin tomorrow. His strength reminded me of the many controversial and important speakers the University has provided a platform for over the years.

From a fiery, fiercely passionate Bernadette Devlin, railing against injustice; to the jaw dropping, “nattering nabobs of negativism” derisive spittle of Spiro T. Agnew, Drake has served as a ‘speaker’s corner’ for free speech. I’m so proud they’re my hometown school!

Expand full comment
Mary C. McCarthy's avatar

I look forward to tomorrow and Dr. Martin's time and thoughts. He is so correct about breaking out of the homogenous hut of life. BTW, in view of DEI restrictions as Black History Month cancelations, I have canceled all celebration of the wearing of the green tomorrow (DEI for those of Irish descent).

Expand full comment
Blue Thoughts From a Red State's avatar

Attacks on academic institutions are a common occurrence and integral part of the authoritarian playbook. Drake University has historically been a stalwart beacon of freedom for diversity and inclusion in academia. Over my lifetime they’ve shown a candle loses none of its light by lighting other candles.

Expand full comment
Julie Gammack's avatar

Well said.

Expand full comment
Bob Noun's avatar

Bravo. A rare courageous leader in these times who fits the quote about leadership at the beginning of Julie’s article.

Expand full comment
Julie Gammack's avatar

Indeed

Expand full comment