06/10/2026
We are excited to feature an Arts & Sciences alum today who is especially close to our hearts, Erin Opar (AS'19). Erin serves as the Assistant Director of Marketing for University Communications and Marketing here at Drake.
Erin graduated from Drake in 2019 with bachelor’s degrees in English and art, and in 2025 earned her master’s degree in communication. For her master’s capstone, she wrote and illustrated "Griff's Big Little Adventure," a children’s book that follows Drake's live mascot, Griff, and his campus squirrel through summer break. Yesterday, Erin and Griff III, Drake University Live Mascot read the book at the Des Moines Public Library story hour, and both were a big hit with children and parents alike. You can purchase "Griff's Big Little Adventure” at the Bulldog Shop in Olmsted or online at https://drake.ecampus.com/merch/F55954.
Outside of work at Drake, Erin teaches aerial arts at Cirque Wonderland and photographs live music around Des Moines. She’s always chasing her next creative challenge. Erin embodies the curious, multidimensional spirit that defines a Drake liberal arts education.