(Des Moines, IA) –  Officials with Drake University, Tuesday, announced the selection of Joseph M. Valenzano III as the University’s next provost. In a news release, Drake officials said Valenzano, an accomplished academic leader and communication scholar, currently serves as the Dean of the College of Communication at Butler University. He will officially begin his duties at Drake on July 1, 2026, upon the planned retirement of Provost Sue Mattison, announced in March 2025. As provost, Valenzano will serve as the chief academic officer, overseeing Drake’s seven colleges and schools.

Joseph M. Valenzano III (Photo from a Drake University press release, 1-20-26)

“Dr. Valenzano is a visionary leader who understands firsthand the transformative power of a private, mission-driven liberal arts education,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “His proven track record of collaborative leadership, commitment to student success, and ability to foster innovation in service to mission makes him the ideal person to guide our academic enterprise. I am incredibly thankful for the work of the faculty-led Provost Search Committee, for the countless faculty and staff who provided input on the candidates, and for Provost Mattison’s decade-long service.”

The appointment follows a comprehensive national search led by a Provost Search Committee comprised of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and a trustee chaired by Professors Sandy Henry and Chuck Phillips. Valenzano was selected from a pool of more than 80 applicants. The search process included extensive vetting and on-campus forums during which finalists engaged directly with Drake faculty, staff, and students. The Drake Board of Trustees unanimously approved Valenzano’s appointment at their January board meeting.