Michael V. Drake

Michael V Drake

Michael V. Drake is an American physician, educator, and university administrator known for his contributions to higher education in the United States. He has served in various leadership roles at multiple American universities, most notably as the President of the University of California system and prior to that, as the President of The Ohio State University.

Early Life and Education

Michael Vincent Drake was born in New York City and grew up in a family that valued education and public service. He pursued his undergraduate education at Stanford University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Following his time at Stanford, Drake attended the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where he received his medical degree. His educational background laid the foundation for his career in medicine and academia.

Career

Drake's career began in the field of ophthalmology, where he made significant contributions to medical research and patient care. He served on the faculty of UCSF for more than two decades, during which he held various administrative positions, including the Associate Dean for Admissions and Extramural Academic Programs.

In 2005, Drake was appointed as the Chancellor of the University of California, Irvine (UCI), where he served until 2014. During his tenure at UCI, he was known for his efforts to increase access to higher education, improve student success rates, and enhance the university's research capabilities.

Following his time at UCI, Drake became the 15th President of The Ohio State University in 2014. His presidency at Ohio State was marked by initiatives aimed at affordability, diversity, and inclusion, as well as significant growth in the university's research portfolio.

In 2020, Michael V. Drake was named the President of the University of California system, becoming the first African American to hold this position. In this role, he oversees the ten UC campuses, five medical centers, and three affiliated national laboratories. His leadership focuses on expanding access to quality education, advancing health equity, and promoting sustainability and innovation across the UC system.

Personal Life

Michael V. Drake is married to Brenda Drake and they have two adult children. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is known for his commitment to community service and his passion for music, particularly classic rock and rhythm and blues.

Legacy and Impact

Drake's leadership in higher education has been characterized by his dedication to inclusivity, excellence in education and research, and the well-being of students, faculty, and staff. He has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to academia and the broader community.