Mission Statement The Office of Sponsored Programs furthers the mission of the University by contributing to the enhancement of faculty and professional staff opportunities for creative and scholarly research development. External support for sponsored research and other programs contributes substantially to undergraduate and graduate instruction and encourages the University to continue to develop research capabilities and provide training opportunities and technical assistance services. All such activities augment the excellence in teaching and the quality of intellectual life found at Drake University. It is the mission of the Grants Office to help faculty members in their search for external funds so that they may pursue new challenges that will lead to improved scholarly research, enhanced teaching experiences, and information resulting in intellectual stimulation and growth.