March 31 , 2000
GREATER DES MOINES PARTNERSHIP APPLAUDS DRAKE’S WORKFORCE INITIATIVE

GREATER DES MOINES, Iowa – March 31, 2000 – Business leaders gathered downtown today for the unveiling of a new workforce initiative announced by Drake University.  The Greater Des Moines Partnership hosted this morning’s “insider briefing” to announce the scholarship program designed to place Drake graduates in professional positions in Central Iowa.

The Corporate Partners Scholarship Program is a partnership between Drake University and participating businesses, offering junior-level students enrolled at Drake full tuition, room and board and an internship in exchange for a three-year employment commitment following graduation.

“The Corporate Partners Scholarship Program is a positive strategy to dealing with Iowa’s current labor challenge,” said Mike Blouin, CEO of Greater Des Moines Partnership.  “With over 60 percent of Iowa’s college graduates leaving the state, Drake’s program is a great first step in the battle to retain our best and brightest.  The Partnership applauds their efforts.”

The scholarship program was launched this morning with four partnering corporations – The Des Moines Register, Norwest Bank Iowa, a Wells Fargo company, The Principal Financial Group and Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.  Drake University invites other area employers to take part in this unique opportunity to invest in its future workforce.

Mayor Bob Brownell, chair of the Partnership’s Recruitment Task Force said, “This program is a win-win.  Drake students get financial assistance, professional career experience and a guaranteed job after graduation.  Local companies get well-educated, trained and dedicated employees.  With today’s labor challenges, every one of Greater Des Moines’ businesses should be participating.”

Students must apply for the scholarship by May 1 for placement at the beginning of the school year in August 2000.  Companies interested in participating should contact President David Maxwell at Drake University.