National Advisory Council

The Harkin Institute’s bipartisan National Advisory Council is comprised of national leaders in business, public service and education who provide guidance and direction for the institute while serving as some of its most ardent supporters.

In addition to providing valuable insight on strategic planning for the institute, members of the National Advisory Council (NAC) play a vital role as speakers and mentors.

Through various capacities, NAC members offer internship and professional development opportunities to Drake University students involved with The Harkin Institute.

Mary Sellers (Chair)

  • President, United Way of Central Iowa
  • Former U.S. President, United Way Worldwide

Charles E. Cook, Jr.

  • Editor and Publisher, The Cook Political Report
  • Columnist, National Journal

Ruth R. Harkin

  • Former Senior Vice President, United Technologies Corporation
  • Past Member, Iowa Board of Regents

James W. Hubbell III

  • Chairman, Hubbell Realty Company (Retired)

Rachel R. McLean, Ph.D.

  • Ruan Companies

Sally J. Pederson

  • Former Lieutenant Governor of Iowa

Liz Shuler

  • President, AFL-CIO

Steve Sukup

  • President and CEO, Sukup Manufacturing

Marsha Ternus, J.D.

  • Former Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice
  • Inaugural Executive Director, The Harkin Institute

Ex-Officio Member

Senator Tom Harkin (Retired)

  • Former Iowa Senator

Past Members

Michael G. Gartner

  • Former Principal Owner, Iowa Cubs
  • Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
  • Former President, NBC News

David E. Maxwell, Ph.D

  • President Emeritus, Drake University

Greg Geoffrey

  • Former President of Iowa State University

Stephen W. Roberts

  • Of Counsel Attorney, Davis Brown L.L.P
  • Former Iowa Republican State Chairman

Nancy G. Shor

  • Former Executive Director, National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives

Address: 2800 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50311

Phone: (515) 271-3623

Email: harkininstitute@drake.edu

Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.