SJMC Names Professor Jennifer Glover Konfrst Associate Dean for 2026-27 Academic Year

Tuesday, February 24th, 2026

Monday, February 23 – Drake University’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication announced today it has named Professor Jennifer Glover Konfrst, APR, associate dean of the school beginning with the 2026-27 academic year.

“I’m looking forward to working with Professor Konfrst as she recruits new Bulldogs to Drake and ensures all SJMC students are able to meet their academic potential here,” said incoming Dean Kelly Bruhn. “With more than a decade of experience on the Drake faculty, Professor Konfrst is well-equipped to guide students in this important role.”

Konfrst started full time on Drake’s faculty in 2013 following a career in public relations and political communication. In 2015 she created Drake’s strategic political communication major, and she was promoted to full professor with tenure in 2025.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to work with Drake students in this new role while continuing doing what I love best – teaching the next generation of ethical communicators,” Konfrst said. “Drake’s SJMC is a leader in the industry, in our community, and in the university, and I look forward to upholding this strong tradition.”

Konfrst graduated from Drake in 1996 and earned a Master of Public Administration from Drake in 1998. She earned Accreditation in Public Relations in 2001 and has been active in the Des Moines community in several ways.

Konfrst’s role begins at the start of the 2026-27 academic year in August.