(Des Moines, IA) – There has been a shift for Drake athletics after Megan Franklin, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Strategic Initiatives and External Operations, will be moving a few hours away after accepting the role of Athletics Director at UNI. Franklin joined Drake University in June of 2012 and spent over 12 years with the Bulldogs.
Franklin had quite a few highlights while serving Drake athletics. She was moved up from the human resources and budget management side of the athletics program and was shifted over to the role of interim athletics director in 2017. While holding that position, the women’s soccer team won the Missouri Valley Conference championship and football finished with one of their best records and finishes with a second place finish in the Pioneer League. Franklin was also part of the renovations at the Knapp Center and even formed a board to explore bringing alcohol to the facility in 2018.
“I have had a master class in leadership with Drake Athletics while working alongside administrators and coaches as they lead with integrity and a commitment greater than themselves,” Franklin said. “I am grateful for the trust instilled by President Martin and Athletic Directors Sandy Hatfield Clubb and Brian Hardin, who provided me opportunities to be involved in key areas of the department. Drake Athletics is truly Des Moines’ hometown team. I will look back fondly on the relationships fostered within the community among alumni, donors, and fans. I will continue to cheer on the Bulldogs as I look back with pride for my tenure at Drake and what we collectively accomplished.”
Franklin first earned her bachelor’s degree from Nebraska in 1998 and then her master’s degree from Nebraska in 2001. She spent two years as an assistant athletic counselor during that time. After her time at Nebraska, she went on to serve as the director of student life at Virginia Tech from 2003-07 and then went to earn her doctorate in educational leadership from Virginia Tech in 2014.
UNI has not yet announced the official start date for Franklin but likely will be announced later this month.