Our goal is to envision the future of business to ensure the success of Zimpleman graduates.
When I began my career in business three–plus decades ago, the priorities for companies were straightforward: o er compelling products and services, generate strong investor returns, and create good jobs. As I look at the landscape today, it is much more complex because the demands and expectations on companies are greater than ever. Successful business leaders are the ones who are ready to face challenges with knowledge that extends beyond traditional business skill sets. That is why the Zimpleman College of Business is investing in leading-edge initiatives to make sure our graduates have the needed acumen, empathy, and experience to thrive in this new world.
We do this by developing one person at a time and by bringing individuals together to innovate in response to today’s evolving business environment. This issue of the Zimpleman Edge provides a glimpse into a few of the many programs we o er for and in partnership with our students to deliver on our promise to equip them to do well by doing good.
This work is important because it is designed to provide opportunities for our students to distinguish themselves in today’s dynamic employment market. We want to position students for lifelong success and happiness by enabling them to do work that aligns with their values, and to drive economic opportunity and income for themselves and others. These initiatives are made possible by the generous support of our donors, the hard work of our faculty and sta , and the commitment of our students to embrace a future that is full of new opportunities.
Alejandro Hernandez Dean Zimpleman College of Business
OUR PURPOSE
From Vision to Action
8 9 15 17 21 23 21 25 25 12
Zimpleman’s Business for Good Summit inspires positive change
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders Stories from Zimpleman’s Dean Team
Global Business Adventures
Zimpleman students explore New Zealand and Panama during J-term
Shaping Tomorrow’s Insurance Leaders
Zimpleman’s ‘Insure Your Future’ program bridges industry gap
OUR PEOPLE
Global Perspectives, Personal Growth Jackson Hill’s Zimpleman journey
From Classroom to Career Mackenzie Brady’s journey to actuarial success at Zimpleman
OUR PRIDE
Marketing Mastery How the Murphy Cup prepares Zimpleman students for career readiness
Building Career Pathways
Zimpleman’s mentorship program connects the classroom to the industry
Living a Full Life, Beyond the Classroom A decade of innovation at Bâton Global 5
ON THE COVER: Learn more about Olivia Gernand in the alumni spotlight on page 18
Our Purpose
Purpose
FROM VISION TO ACTION
Zimpleman College’s Business for Good Summit Inspires Positive Change
From a newly launched lectureship series to top rankings for societal impact to the oneyear anniversary since the College’s renaming, 2024 was a monumental year for the Zimpleman College of Business. Last April, the College hosted its inaugural Business for Good Summit. This first-ever event exemplified the College’s strategic approach of empowering students to harness their business education for the greater good.
“The Business for Good Summit spurred our students to envision how to use the power of free enterprise to make positive changes in the world—from neighborhoods to nations and everywhere in between,” said Alejandro Hernandez, dean of the Zimpleman College of Business.
“The Business for Good Summit spurred our students to envision how to use the power of free enterprise to make positive changes in the world—from neighborhoods to nations and everywhere in between”
Alejandro Hernandez Dean, Zimpleman College of Business
Held on Drake University’s campus, the one-day event brought together more than 110 participants, including influential thought leaders and members of the business community, to showcase how business can be a force for good. The summit was a collaborative e ort, with support from Drake’s O ce of Community Engaged Learning, the Kelley Center for Insurance Innovation, and the Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Outreach.
The theme of “Empowering all with the Opportunity to Participate and Succeed” fostered dynamic, collaborative discussions among students, faculty, sta , and community members as they generated actionable ideas to make a di erence. The meeting of future and current business professionals enriched the community atmosphere through the exchange of diverse perspectives.
intentionality can have a larger return on impact as well as investment,” said Cezar.
The event’s success was recognized by the Mid-American Business Deans Association (MABDA) in 2024 with its Innovation in Business Education Award. In September of that year, the college was notified it had been selected as the top submission in the Strategic Redirection
During his address, keynote speaker David Reiling, president and CEO of Sunrise Banks, said, “I am here because I live and breathe business as a force for good every day in the business that I run at Sunrise Banks. It is my passion to do well by doing good.”
The day also included workshops covering topics aligned with Zimpleman’s societal impact focus areas: social mobility, mission-driven business, and financial inclusion. Additionally, representatives from BLK & Bold were featured as guest speakers, including cofounder and CEO Pernell Cezar.
“It’s really important for people who aspire to be in business or to build businesses to understand that
or Reorganization of Business School Activities category. The positive outcomes shared from a survey conducted following the summit stood out in the application, including an average 8.7 out of 10 rating of the likelihood of recommending the event to a colleague or friend.
“Being recognized by fellow deans was especially rewarding, given the theme for the 2024 MABDA awards was ‘The Business School of the Future: Igniting Innovation and Impact,’” said Dean Hernandez.
The second annual summit took place on May 2, 2025. Stay connected and see the highlights from this year’s event on our social media.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS
STORIES FROM ZIMPLEMAN’S DEAN TEAM
At the Zimpleman College of Business, preparing students for career success means more than just offering a world-class education—it means fostering mentorship, creating networking opportunities, and building a strong community. One example of this commitment is the Dean Team, a select group of students who work closely with faculty, staff, and alumni to gain leadership experience and expand their professional networks. Through the Dean Team, students have access to mentorship from Dean Alejandro Hernandez, exclusive networking events, and the chance to develop lasting relationships with peers and industry leaders.
This initiative highlights Zimpleman’s dedication to producing career-ready graduates who are prepared to succeed and are equipped to lead in their fields. Three Dean Team members, Aldo Martinez, Erika Roehers, and Breanna Page, share their experiences, showcasing how this program helps students thrive academically and professionally.
Erika Roehrs: COMMUNITY AND OPPORTUNITY
For Erika Roehrs, the decision to attend Drake was rooted in its renowned actuarial science program. The Zimpleman College of Business is one of 22 schools in the nation recognized as a Center of Actuarial Excellence. Meeting Dean Hernandez during her campus visit solidified her choice as she saw firsthand the wealth of professional opportunities available through Zimpleman, including the Organization of Latino Actuaries.
Aldo Martinez: LEADERSHIP AND LIFELONG CONNECTIONS
Roehrs describes her time on the Dean Team as one of the most rewarding parts of her college experience. The close-knit community made her first year at Drake feel welcoming and supportive. From networking events to invitations to local gatherings, Roehrs has seized every opportunity to connect with industry professionals and expand her network.
Her involvement with organizations like Alpha Kappa Psi, La Fuerza Latina, and the Trinity Lutheran Student Fellowship has deepened her connections with other students, creating lasting friendships, and a network of like-minded peers. Beyond her academic and Dean Team commitments, Roehrs enjoys exploring Des Moines’ diverse food scene and balancing her busy schedule with trips home to Nebraska.
Breanna Page: FINDING A VOICE IN LEADERSHIP
Aldo Martinez chose the Zimpleman College of Business for its small class sizes and its reputation as one of the top business schools in the Midwest. For Martinez, the Dean Team has been a cornerstone of his college experience. Surrounded by like-minded aspiring leaders, Martinez has found both inspiration and support.
One of the standout aspects of Martinez’s time on the Dean Team is his close relationship with Dean Hernandez, who has provided invaluable mentorship and guidance during Martinez’s first semester. This connection has not only enhanced his academic journey but also helped him build confidence in pursuing his professional goals. He recently joined the dean on a travel seminar to Panama in January of 2025.
Beyond mentorship, Martinez cherishes his friendships with fellow Dean Team members. Outside of his responsibilities, Martinez enjoys attending campus events, exploring new restaurants, and immersing himself in the vibrant community that Drake offers.
PREPARING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW
Breanna Page did not initially see Drake on her radar. That was until her mom encouraged her to visit. Experiencing the campus’ warm atmosphere and engaging faculty-student interactions firsthand convinced her that the Zimpleman College of Business was the perfect fit.
Being part of the Dean Team has allowed Page to build meaningful relationships and participate in exclusive opportunities, such as events and networking gatherings. She affirms the connection to Dean Hernandez is invaluable, as his passion for the Dean Team program is palpable. She particularly values the platform the Dean Team provides for students to share their perspectives and contribute to the future of Zimpleman.
Page’s commitment to campus life extends beyond the Dean Team. From interning in the college’s Executive Education program to participating in organizations like the campus housing committee, Dogtown After Hours, and the Salt Company, Page embodies the leadership and community engagement spirit that defines Zimpleman students. Through it all, her experiences on the Dean Team have equipped her with the skills and confidence to make an impact at Drake and in her future career.
The stories of Martinez, Roehrs, and Page are just a glimpse into the transformative experiences offered by the Dean Team program which is underwritten by a generous gift from the David J. Noble Foundation. By fostering mentorship, creating professional opportunities, and building a supportive community, the Zimpleman College of Business continues to exemplify its mission to prepare students for lifelong success. The Dean Team is more than a program—it is a launchpad for the next generation of business leaders.
Global Business Adventures ZIMPLEMAN STUDENTS EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND AND PANAMA
Exploring Culture, Conservation, and Innovation in New Zealand’s Vibrant Business Landscape
This past January, a group of Zimpleman students participated in an action-packed two and a half-week study abroad experience in New Zealand. Under the guidance of professors Amy Vaughan and Brian Vander Naald, 20 students had the opportunity to explore the cultural impact of a group of New Zealand's indigenous people—the Maori—and gained an understanding of factors effecting the country’s coastal region and animal species. The group also spent dedicated time examining New Zealand’s burgeoning tourism and adventure sport industries.
Connecting with Emerging Markets and Global Commerce in Panama’s Thriving Hub
Dean Alejandro Hernandez and Chief Global Affairs Officer and Dean of Global Programs Annique Kiel led students to Panama in January to explore this emerging Latin American business and innovation hub. Twelve students spent two weeks connecting with major national and multi-national firms, trade associations, and local entrepreneurs as well as engaging in cultural and environmental excursions. A highlight of the visit was a business challenge, presented by two companies at the Panama Pacifico business center. Student teams collaborated with company representatives to develop recommendations in response to the challenge which they then presented to companies’ senior executives. The trip was rounded out with engagements with the United States Embassy and the Organization of American States to highlight the link between global commerce and international policy.
In the heart of Iowa, where the insurance industry powers over 10% of the state’s GDP, Drake University’s Zimpleman College of Business is making a significant impact through its collaboration with the State of Iowa’s Insure Your Future initiative. This innovative public/private program is reshaping how first- and second-year students view their career paths while addressing a critical labor shortage in the insurance industry.
The partnership began with Drake alumnus Michael Gould, manager of business development at the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Gould approached the College to explore how its strengths could align with industry needs. As many seasoned insurance professionals approach retirement, the program addresses the gap by introducing young, motivated talent to this vital sector.
SHAPING TOMORROW’S INSURANCE LEADERS:
made by participating companies. The program does not stop at internships; it enriches the experience with networking events, leadership development workshops, and panels featuring industry leaders like Iowa Insurance Commissioner Doug Ommen.
The program offers first- and secondyear students something often out of reach: professional-level internships. These positions provide robust compensation—double the national minimum wage—and, in many cases, free housing, removing financial barriers to participation.
At its core, Insure Your Future connects college students with internships in Iowa’s burgeoning insurance industry. Students apply for roles through the program’s website, with hiring decisions
Since its inception in 2023, the program has partnered with 30 companies to place 150 interns. Students leave with more than just work experience—they develop a professional acumen, opening doors to additional internships and, ultimately, career-ready skills.
ZIMPLEMAN COLLEGE’S ‘INSURE YOUR FUTURE’ PROGRAM BRIDGES INDUSTRY GAP
For many students, the program is a revelation. They discover the breadth of roles available in the insurance sector, realizing that every major within Zimpleman can lead to fulfilling careers in this sector. Moreover, they learn about the industry’s higher-than-average salaries—on average, $42,000 more annually compared to non-insurance roles.
Networking is another key feature. Whether at the Iowa Insurance Hall of Fame event or summer kickoff, students have unparalleled access to industry leaders. Kevin Croft, associate professor of practice and director of the Kelley Center for Insurance Innovation at Zimpleman, recalled a standout moment when a student, Kendall Starcevich, discussed career opportunities with then Principal CEO Dan Houston at The Principal Charity Classic.
Internships through Insure Your Future offer more than technical skills. Students gain firsthand experience in professional environments, learning workplace culture, collaboration, and leadership.
Through its involvement, Zimpleman has deepened its relationships with industry leaders and showcased the caliber of its students. The program has grown significantly, with Drake students accounting for an increasing share of participants. Croft hopes to see 15–20 Drake students involved annually, representing 20% of the program’s total.
In addition to their internships, students can compete for $2,000 scholarships by creating video reflections about their experiences. These videos promote the program and allow students to refine their communication and storytelling skills.
Future plans include encouraging students to pursue the college’s Risk Management and Insurance minor, which provides a deeper understanding of industry operations and risk control strategies.
Zimpleman’s commitment to producing career-ready graduates remains steadfast. Through this partnership with Insure Your Future, Zimpleman addresses workforce challenges and inspires its students to see the insurance industry as a dynamic, meaningful career choice and prepares them to be leaders in the ever-evolving industry.
Our People
People
GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES, PERSONAL GROWTH: JACKSON HILL’S ZIMPLEMAN COLLEGE JOURNEY
For economics and international business student Jackson Hill, attending the Zimpleman College of Business is more than just completing classwork—it is an opportunity to cra a personalized experience, tailored to his professional and personal aspirations.
Local to the Des Moines area, Hill was exposed to the unique opportunities Drake University o ers to students early on. “My brother is an alumnus here, so hearing his experience and the way he grew as a Bulldog really encouraged me to want to be one as well,” he said.
Now a senior, he has experienced firsthand the impact of these opportunities, and the strong connections formed among faculty and students.
As part of his adventure, Hill has embraced Zimpleman’s promise to help students become global and multicultural citizens. Following his freshman year, he participated in one of Drake’s over 300 study abroad programs, traveling to Uganda alongside eight other Bulldogs to learn about economic development in developing countries.
“This experience was super impactful and helped me learn who I was and what I was really motivated by.”
JACKSON HILL
“This experience was super impactful and helped me learn who I was and what I was really motivated by,” he said. “Being able to go experience and see that development in person was really special.”
In an increasingly complex and diverse business landscape, global experiences like Hill’s not only contribute to personal growth but also introduce the skills needed to face society’s pressing challenges as business professionals.
As a Zimpleman student ambassador, Hill actively shares with prospective students and their families the value of the global perspective he gained and how it enhanced his career readiness.
“What stands out for me are the opportunities and the connections that the college presents for students,” he said. “I think those two things really allow you to build your own adventure and explore to become the person you want to be.”
FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER: Mackenzie Brady’s Journey to Actuarial Success at Zimpleman College
For recent Zimpleman College of Business alumna, Mackenzie Brady, math was always a favorite subject, leading her to pursue actuarial science at one of the nation’s elite Center of Actuarial Excellence programs accredited by the Society of Actuaries.
“I wanted a career that would be stable and always in demand,” Brady said.
When deciding which school to attend, Brady knew she wanted a smaller program for the oneon-one connection that is not always possible at larger universities. Not only this, but her career aspirations to become an actuary required the ability to network with professionals and intern with di erent companies. Drake University’s prime location in the insurance capital of the U.S. meant that local employers actively sought Zimpleman students for internships.
With the help of Zimpleman’s career services center, Brady had countless opportunities to
network with alumni and connect with companies seeking actuarial interns. This ultimately led her to secure two internships during her four years, one with Securian Financial and the other with The Cigna Group. These experiences provided her with hands-on knowledge of an actuary’s daily life, and further solidified her envisioned career path.
“It was an incredible feeling to know that everything I’ve learned in the classroom actually does apply to the real world.”
Building on these experiences, Brady recently launched her actuarial career with her former internship employer, Cigna. She is now based in Denver, as a senior actuarial analyst.
“ I know I will always be proud that I came to Drake when I get to introduce myself to other people .”
MACKENZIE BRADY
Although no longer in Des Moines, Brady reflects on her educational experience with pride: “I know I will always be proud that I came to Drake when I get to introduce myself to other people.”
Alum Spotlight: Olivia Gernand
NAME:
Olivia Gernandt
DEGREE:
B.S.B.A., Marketing
CAREER STORY:
“My internship manager at Schwan’s was actually a Drake alum, and the internship coordinator here recommended me to them for my current full-time position. This connection really helped me stand out from other applicants.”
BIGGEST ZIMPLEMAN TAKEAWAY:
HOMETOWN: Apple Valley, Minnesota
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCES: Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Schwan’s Company
CURRENT POSITION:
Marketing Associate at Schwan’s Company
“The Zimpleman College of Business really taught me how to think like a real businessperson so I can move forward and thrive.”
Our Pride
Pride
MARKETING MASTERY:
How the Murphy Cup Prepares Zimpleman
Students for Career Readiness
Zimpleman College of Business marketing students are no strangers to hands-on learning. Each year, 12 seniors are selected to participate in the prestigious Murphy Cup–an intensive, competitive weekend experience in which their skills are tested as they strategize solutions to a real-world marketing problem.
Since 2014, Zimpleman has partnered with Creighton University’s Heider College of Business for the event, forming six teams of four students (two from each business school) to address a challenge posed by a high-profile corporate partner. This collaborative competition is a result of the vision of Drake University graduate and member of Creighton’s Board of Trustees, Chris Murphy. His support and his gi s over the last decade have made this event possible. It is a high honor to be selected to participate, with many former participants labelling it as the highlight of their time at Drake.
Mary Edrington, associate professor of practice in marketing, noted that it o ers students a “wonderful opportunity for experiential learning.”
In 2024, teams had 24 hours to create a marketing plan and present it to executives from the convenience store chain Casey’s. Former clients include well-known brands like Nike, Yahoo!, and UnitedHealth Group.
Although only one team is deemed champion, clients o en share they are blown away by all of the students’ professionalism and creative insights. In the competition’s 11-year history, several students have secured full-time jobs with the participating corporate client through their outstanding contributions, further showcasing the career readiness that the event promotes.
The Murphy Cup is just one example of experiential learning opportunities available to Zimpleman students. The marketing curriculum o ers opportunities to apply classroom practices to real-world scenarios through direct client work at a number of points during students’ academic careers at Drake.
Students like Alex Sperry appreciate the lasting e ect opportunities like the Murphy Cup present. “Drake is all about real-life experiences, and the professors really advocate that in the classroom.”
“Drake is all about real-life experiences, and the professors really advocate that in the classroom.”
ALEX SPERRY
HOW TWO DRAKE GRADS INITIATED A LONG-DISTANCE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
At the Zimpleman College of Business, mentorship is more than just a program–it is a foundational pillar that helps prepare students for their careers. Faculty, alumni, and industry leaders engage with students and recent graduates to provide guidance, real-world insights, and valuable connections to help them become career-ready.
Meet Mike
Mike Peterson graduated from Drake University in 1975. With a successful career in sales and marketing and his former role as vice president and publisher with Dotdash Meredith Corporation, Mike’s dedication to his field is evident. Now retired, Mike is committed to giving back to Drake, supporting young graduates on their paths to success.
How They Connected
The two met at several events hosted by Drake, including an American Marketing Association Speed Networking event and a Sigma Alpha Epsilon Executive Forum. Through these interactions, Logan and Mike’s mentor-mentee relationship flourished in Logan’s senior year. Mike shared his industry knowledge and provided Logan with guidance as he prepared for graduation, easing the transition from student life to a budding career.
An Ongoing Mentorship Beyond Graduation
Their relationship did not end with Logan’s graduation. Instead, Mike and Logan continue to connect monthly, where Mike remains a trusted resource and advisor. With his years of experience, Mike shares advice tailored to Logan’s professional challenges and aspirations, o ering insights and support that help Logan navigate the early stages of his career. As Logan pursues a master’s degree in management from the Maritime Academy, he relies on Mike’s mentorship to set a foundation for future success.
Meet Logan
Logan graduated from Zimpleman in 2022. Soon a er graduation, he relocated to the East Coast to start his career at Food Export, where he works as a liaison. While at Drake, Logan formed a lifelong connection with Mike during a mentorship role that would shape his professional journey.
Mentorship as a Legacy
For Mike, mentorship is not only a way to give back during his retirement but also a reflection of Zimpleman’s mission: “Business as a force for good.” By supporting graduates like Logan, Mike reinforces the college’s emphasis on lifelong learning and professional growth. Logan, in turn, aspires to someday mentor others, carrying forward the legacy of support and guidance he has received.
“Mentorship is one of the most meaningful ways to impact a young professional’s career,” Mike reflects. “Helping students transition from the classroom to their career path is incredibly rewarding.”
As Mike continues his commitment to Zimpleman, he exemplifies the culture of mentorship that defines Drake, strengthening the bridge from academics to industry for future Bulldogs.
LIVING A FULL LIFE, BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Many years ago, Larry Zimpleman issued a challenge to Drake University’s faculty: “A great city needs a great university, and vice versa.” Inspired by this vision, the Zimpleman College of Business embraced the philosophy that a reciprocal relationship with the community would elevate both parties. This belief, coupled with the rapid expansion of Iowa’s industries into emerging global markets, spurred the creation of Bâton Global, a consulting company founded by faculty members Matthew Mitchell and Je Kappen.
Reflecting on Bâton Global’s first decade, Mitchell and Kappen’s shared expertise in academic research and global business, combined with cutting-edge technology, has driven transformation and innovation worldwide. In central Iowa, Bâton Global played a pivotal role in developing the Capital Crossroads strategic plan and the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s awardwinning COVID-19 playbooks, which guided local organizations through the pandemic. They have conducted a comprehensive Workforce Insights Study, engaging over 15,000 professionals to help leaders adapt to evolving workplace dynamics. Globally, the firm has contributed to sustainable banking initiatives in Malaysia, citizen well-being dashboards in the Middle East, and mentoring emerging market entrepreneurs.
and collaborators. Local artist Nathan Wright captured the decade’s highlights in a graphical recording, showcasing the impact of Bâton Global’s work through the voices of its partners.
Drake University has played an integral role in Bâton Global’s growth. The firm’s first hire, Drake alumnus Karter Smith, exemplifies the strong ties between the university and the company. Smith’s journey began with a 3:00 a.m. meeting with a Middle Eastern client and quickly expanded to include international consulting trips. His leadership and commitment have earned the admiration of clients and colleagues alike. Over the years, Bâton Global has hired several other Drake alumni, a Drake spouse, and more than a dozen Bulldog interns. These real-world consulting experiences
Closer to home, Bâton Global’s humanitarian ethos aligns with Zimpleman’s “Business as a force for good” mantra. The firm’s early projects included strategy development for organizations serving homeless youth, while recent e orts have focused on improving water quality in Iowa through partnerships with agricultural and conservation non-profits. Additionally, Bâton Global has become a national leader in helping public libraries cra strategic plans, underscoring their vital role as community hubs.
2024 marked Bâton Global’s 10th anniversary, a significant achievement for a business that has navigated financial crises, a pandemic, and global uncertainties. To celebrate, the team hosted a gathering for over 150 clients
reinforce the college’s mission of preparing students to thrive in complex professional environments.
As Bâton Global charts its next decade, its vision remains rooted in the principles that have guided its success. The founders aim to scale their proven methodologies, The Bâton Way, and expand their network of experts and partners across the U.S. and internationally. Pre-pandemic, nearly 30% of their revenue came from global projects, and they are eager to return to these markets, bringing fresh insights back to Drake classrooms and local organizations.
Bâton Global’s journey reflects the spirit of Drake: innovative, communityfocused, and driven to make a di erence. As they pass the baton to new clients, collaborators, and students, Mitchell and Kappen continue to inspire others to live full lives beyond the classroom and leave the world better than they found it.
