On July 18, 2012, Drake University will welcome to its campus more than 100 talented and spirited Dreamers representing "I Have A Dream" programs from across the nation for our National Dreamer Conference. Each year, middle and high school Dreamers come together on a different college campus to spend three days participating in a series of intensive activities designed to propel them forward in their preparation for college. The Dreamer Conference enables participants to envision themselves as college students and fuels their desire to strive for excellence.  This year we celebrate the 11th annual gathering of this conference.

Each aspect of the Dreamer Conference has been designed to equip our Dreamers with the skills needed to gain admission to and excel in college. Interested Dreamers must first complete an application process that simulates the college application process and includes submitting school transcripts, personal statements, and teacher recommendations.

Through college-level courses and other intellectually stimulating activities, Dreamers will have the opportunity to interact with college professors and current college students. Dreamer Alumni, who have often traveled similar paths, come back to share their experiences with Dreamers and encourage their continued success.

Having experienced life on a college campus, our Dreamers leave the Conference with a greater sense of confidence in themselves and their abilities. They return home armed with the tools needed to make college success a reality, and eager to share what they have learned with their peers.

This conference is made possible by the generous support of our donors and we hope that you will contribute to help make this pivotal event possible. Dreamer applications are being submitted now for this year's conference. For more information, contact Lori Donoho.