FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, Aug. 26, 2005

CONTACT: Deidre Howard, (515) 271-3460; mobile (918) 260-4264;
Daniel P. Finney, (515) 271-2833 or Daniel.Finney@drake.edu

DRAKE CELEBRATES BACK TO SCHOOL WITH SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY

Drake University students, faculty and staff will help area elementary, middle and high school students kick off the new school year with the 2005 Back to School Bash from 2-5 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 28, at the John R. Grubb YMCA, 1611 11th St. in Des Moines.

The first 300 students to the bash will receive free school supplies. The event also features a basketball shoot-out to raise money to sponsor underprivileged students in Des Moines Public Schools. Entry fee is $5 and the winner earns a cash prize.

Drake students will run a carnival for elementary and middle school students with field games, a disc jockey, food and refreshments, inflatable games and beloved Drake mascot Spike.

Eric Johnson, Drake assistant professor of education, will deliver a motivational speech to students and parents about the value of education.
Youngsters will also get to meet and interact with current Drake students and faculty, who will answer questions about college life, academics and financial aid.

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