Stay connected, informed, and engaged in your student’s Bulldog journey. Your support matters—and we want you to feel equipped to walk alongside your student through their college experience. This section provides the tools, events, community, and guidance designed specifically for you.
What We Offer
Accessing Your Student’s Academic Records
Drake is committed to protecting your student’s educational privacy in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Our students may choose to grant you access to their academic or financial aid records by authorizing you with Proxy Access. They can choose a combination of access options, including their student profile, financial aid status, grades, and more.
Making Payments to Your Student’s Account
Per federal regulations, anyone besides the student enrolled and attending classes must be authorized to see billing information and make tuition payments, including parents.
Your student can grant you access as an Authorized User on our payment system, Touchnet. Once you are set up, you will be able to see their outstanding tuition balance and make payments through our secure system.
Family Weekend
Join us every fall for Family Weekend, when we invite the families of all of our Bulldogs to campus for tours, panels, student performances, and the chance to experience life as a Bulldog. This weekend is your opportunity to see your student’s world firsthand.
Commencement
Watching your student cross the commencement stage is a moment of pride and celebration for them and for you. Drake’s Commencement Weekend each May is the official graduation event, as we do not hold a separate commencement for fall graduates.
To help you prepare for this milestone, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about attending, from maps and directions to the Knapp Center to information for your student to purchase their cap, gown, tassel, and other regalia they might need.
Order Caps, Gowns, and Tassels
Des Moines Visitor Information
Whether you’re joining us for Family Weekend, Commencement, or visiting over a weekend just to say hi, we want you to feel right at home in Des Moines. Explore local attractions, maps, restaurants, lodging, and airport details to help plan your stay.
Bulldog Bulletin and OnCampus
After your student is admitted to Drake, if they assign you to their student profile, you will join our parent and family-focused e-newsletter, the Bulldog Bulletin. This newsletter is sent to you monthly through your student’s move-in, and then will transition to alternating months during their time at Drake. The Bulldog Bulletin is designed to notify you about important dates or events, checklist items your student needs to complete, virtual sessions, and so much more.
In addition to the Bulldog Bulletin, once your student has completed their Orientation, you will automatically be added to our OnCampus e-newsletter. This is different than the Bulldog Bulletin; as a parent or family member, you will receive the same edition of OnCampus as your student. OnCampus is student-focused and highlights campus events and announcements. This newsletter is sent every other Tuesday.
Staying Connected & Resources
We know that distance can feel real. Through our Staying Connected hub, you’ll find communication channels and tools to remain actively involved without overstepping boundaries.
Our broader Parents & Families Resources page is your go-to for guides, FAQs, and timely information on University policies, family access, and campus life.
Parent & Family Advisory Council
The Parent & Family Advisory Council bridges families and University leadership. Council members provide insight on family experiences, advocate for parent and family interests, and help shape initiatives across campus at Drake.
If you are interested in learning more about the Parent & Family Advisory Council or you’d like to join, please email Marina Verlengia, Director of New Student and Family Programs.
Drake Annual Fund
Family support plays a vital role in campus development. The Drake Annual Fund invites families to invest in Drake’s future—ensuring students have access to the latest academic programs, resources, and support systems.
Contact Us
We welcome your questions, suggestions, and feedback. You can reach us via email or phone listed below.
Jerry Parker
Dean of Students
515-271-2835
duparents@drake.edu
Please note: due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations, Drake University is legally restricted from disclosing your student’s educational records or private academic details, including their GPA, without their consent.