Community of Digital Excellence (CODE) Scholarship

Drake's Community of Digital Excellence (CODE) scholars will each receive a renewable $5,000 undergraduate tuition scholarship. The program is designed for students majoring in Mathematics, Mathematics Education, Computer Science, Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Information Systems. The rapid growth of Artificial Intelligence tools and advanced technology is profoundly impacting society, creating new frontiers and opportunities, and Drake is committed to empowering exceptional students from all backgrounds and building robust pathways for work in technology and analytics. The CODE Scholars program provides comprehensive support including individual bi-weekly meetings with a faculty advisor during the first year, monthly community meetings with faculty mentors and fellow CODE scholars, professional development opportunities, and peer and faculty mentorship. Drake students develop technology and data skills alongside communication skills, preparing leaders who bring valuable viewpoints and talents to technology careers. As part of the program, scholars have an annual service commitment of 40 hours of Digital Proficiency Program Community Service per year. This can include serving as a Teaching Assistant, organizing community engagement events like Hour of Code at the Boys and Girls Club or interdisciplinary Hack-a-Thons, participating in research groups with Drake professors, or other approved community service projects. CODE Scholars are also required to serve as mentors for incoming CODE Scholars and attend monthly meetings. Preference in selection is given to students with demonstrable financial need who have a strong record of academic achievement and who demonstrate potential to contribute significantly to the dynamic and collaborative environment of the program. This includes students who bring unique life experiences, insights, or problem-solving approaches that will enrich the learning experience for all participants and the broader digital proficiency community.