Drake President Marty Martin Reaffirms Commitment to DEI, Expands on University’s Future and Challenges
Drake University President Marty Martin reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in response to recent legislative changes in Iowa that could impact university policies and student funding. He emphasized that his recent public statement was not an act of bravery but a necessary reaffirmation of Drake’s core values, ensuring that all students—especially those affected by evolving state policies—know they belong. He acknowledged that while most responses to his statement have been supportive, there are concerns about potential political and financial consequences, including risks to Iowa Tuition Grants, which help fund education for more than 30% of Drake students.
Drake Athletics and Campus Culture
The conversation began with Drake’s basketball team heading into the NCAA tournament, marking a significant moment in university athletics. Martin underscored the importance of sports in university branding and student recruitment, explaining how Drake fosters a strong culture over financial competition, which helps retain student-athletes despite the increasing commercialization of college sports.
Student Enrollment Challenges: The Impact of Politics and the Decline of Male College Students
Martin noted that college selection is increasingly influenced by state politics, with prospective students expressing concerns about red-state policies on reproductive rights and DEI. He acknowledged that Iowa’s political climate presents recruitment challenges, particularly when competing against universities in blue states. However, Drake counters this by highlighting its welcoming campus culture, academic excellence, and strong career opportunities.
Another major concern is the decline in college enrollment among young men. Martin pointed out that a growing number of young men are opting out of higher education entirely, with some entering the trades but many simply not pursuing education or career advancement at all. He warned that this trend could lead to social and economic consequences, as many of these men may struggle later in life, feeling stagnant and looking for external sources to blame.
Expanding Educational Access: Bright College and Financial Aid Initiatives
Abena Sankofa Imhotep, a graduate of Drake’s Bright College, spoke passionately about how the program transformed her life. Bright College, designed to make higher education accessible to non-traditional and underserved students, provided her and many others with a path to a degree despite financial and societal barriers. She asked Martin whether Bright College is at risk due to political pressures, given its mission of expanding access.
Martin reassured her that Bright College is here to stay, stating that donors recognize its value and are deeply committed to funding it, even if state support dwindles. He also highlighted other tuition-free initiatives, including the Bulldog Promise, which provides full tuition for Pell-eligible Iowa residents. Learn more about Bright
Community Impact: Boys & Girls Club, the Harkin Institute, and Disability Inclusion
Martin spoke about Drake’s Boys & Girls Club, which was developed as part of his vision to make the university a “school of its place”—deeply integrated with Des Moines and surrounding communities. The club allows local youth to experience a college campus firsthand, encouraging them to consider higher education.
Liz Seizer, an Iowa State alum and active community member, praised Drake’s support of the Harkin Institute, which has become a national leader in disability employment policy. She shared how Harkin Institute events, including international disability employment summits, have directly influenced businesses to hire and support employees with disabilities. Martin emphasized the global impact of these summits, particularly the one in Belfast, where 130 attendees from 40 countries worked on inclusive employment solutions.
Seizer also highlighted Drake’s growing role in rural advocacy, citing the J.N. Darling Institute, which focuses on supporting rural America, and upcoming summits on water quality and retirement security.
Chuck Offenburger’s Challenge to Big Business and Higher Education’s Role in DEI
Veteran Iowa journalist Chuck Offenburger praised Martin’s bold public statement on DEI, calling it one of the most significant contributions to Iowa from a Drake leader since Governor Robert Ray. He emphasized that Iowa’s greatest historical achievements have stemmed from diversity, equity, and inclusion and criticized colleges and businesses that remain silent on these issues.
Offenburger also pointed out that big business had been a major proponent of DEI in Iowa due to labor shortages, but many corporations have gone silent under new political pressures. He challenged corporate leaders to step up, arguing that higher education and business must work together to defend inclusion and ensure Iowa remains a welcoming place for diverse talent.
Fundraising and Innovation: The ONES Campaign and Drake’s Global Expansion
Martin discussed Drake’s successful $265 million ONES campaign, which focused on big ideas and transformative projects. One of its key outcomes was the Olson Institute for Public Democracy, which aims to restore civility and empathy in political discourse.
Looking ahead, Martin is focused on globalizing Drake’s education. The university has launched an international partnership with Qingdao University in China, allowing students to earn a Drake degree without leaving China, with the option to transfer in their third or fourth year. He sees expanding international access as a way to diversify and stabilize Drake’s student population while fulfilling its mission of bringing education to learners where they are.
Future Challenges and Hiring Philosophy
Martin acknowledged higher education’s mounting challenges, including rising costs, political scrutiny, and shifting demographics. He emphasized that Drake must break through the noise and continue proving its value to students and families. He also expressed concern over misinformation about student debt, noting that while debt is a real issue, many overgeneralized narratives discourage students from pursuing college altogether.
On hiring, Martin emphasized that Drake seeks individuals who embody the university’s four core values:
Joyful accountability – Bring your best self to work.
Generosity of spirit – Trust and goodwill should be the foundation of relationships.
All in this together – A commitment to collaboration.
Commitment to mission – Ensuring students find success and serve others.
Final Thoughts
The conversation closed with a reflection on leadership, with Martin explaining why he extended his tenure at Drake despite challenges. He reaffirmed that education is one of the most powerful forces for positive change, and he remains committed to expanding access, strengthening community ties, and defending core values in an increasingly uncertain landscape.
The discussion left a clear impression: Drake University actively shapes Iowa’s future, championing inclusion and preparing students to lead in a rapidly evolving world.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Abound During the Okoboji Writers’ and Songwriters’ Retreat.
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