John and Cathi Drake
Warren, Ohio
Hancock, Michigan
Gift Designation
Type of Gift
Attract Top Scholars and Researchers
John and Cathi Drake pledged $1 million through their estate to endow the John and Cathi Drake Endowed Professorship in Mechanical Engineering. In addition, they are using retirement income to fund the professorship during their lifetimes.
Mr. Drake received what he calls "a tremendous education at Michigan Tech, both in mechanical engineering and in business administration." He earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering in 1964 and an MS in Business Administration in 1969 that helped him to succeed as the founder and chairman of Drake Manufacturing Services. Impressed with the current management and mission of Michigan Tech and the Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics, he said, “We trust that our support will play a small role in helping new Tech grads achieve the success that we have enjoyed.”
Dr. Gordon Parker, a professor of mechanical engineering at Michigan Tech since 1996, was named the first John and Cathi Drake Professor.
For more information on the wide range of options to support Michigan Tech, contact the Office of Gift Planning.