New Scholarship and Internships Boost Iowa Conservation Careers at Drake University and Blank Park Zoo

Aspiring zoologists and conservation scientists in Iowa are slated to receive a significant boost to their educational and professional journeys, thanks to a multi-million dollar estate gift. Drake University and Blank Park Zoo announced a combined gift of nearly $3 million from the estate of Holmes and Marjorie Foster, establishing a new scholarship fund at Drake and supporting stipended internships and special projects at the zoo.

This development, according to Drake University, aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing careers dedicated to animal care and environmental protection, while simultaneously enhancing practical learning opportunities through a long-standing partnership between the university and the zoo.

Opening Doors: The Holmes and Marjorie Foster Scholarship

Beginning in the fall of 2027, the Holmes and Marjorie Foster Zoo and Conservation Science Scholarship will offer substantial financial aid to eligible Iowa residents enrolled in Drake University's Zoo and Conservation Science program. According to Drake University, the scholarship will provide $5,000 per year for up to four years, alongside a $3,000 professional development stipend per student.

The number of annual recipients will be determined by the applicant pool and demonstrated financial need, with priority given to students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Two students have already benefited from the scholarship during an initial pilot phase. Keith Summerville, Chair of the Department of Environmental Science and Sustainability at Drake, emphasized that this gift will help ensure financial challenges do not hinder students from pursuing their passion and making a tangible difference in the world.

The professional development stipends are designed to support students in attending conferences or engaging in experiential learning opportunities, potentially even abroad in locations such as Asia and Africa. This type of support can be crucial for students, allowing them to gain exposure to diverse conservation practices and build professional networks early in their careers.

For high school students considering such a path, understanding the requirements for programs like Drake's Zoo and Conservation Science and the importance of financial aid applications like FAFSA is a vital first step. Resources like COSMIQ — free voice AI tutoring, free forever for every K-12 student — can help students navigate complex application processes or deepen their understanding of scientific concepts relevant to these fields.

Bridging Theory and Practice: Stipend-Supported Internships

Beyond the scholarships, the Foster estate gift will directly benefit students through new stipend-supported internships at Blank Park Zoo. While the zoo has hosted student interns, including those from Drake, for over a decade, this gift marks a significant shift: starting in summer 2027, these internships will provide a stipend. This means students pursuing zoology or conservation science careers will no longer have to choose between gaining valuable field experience and earning money during the summer months.

This change addresses a common challenge for students in many fields, where unpaid internships can create barriers for those who cannot afford to forgo income. Anne Shimerdla, President & CEO of Blank Park Zoo, highlighted that this partnership extends the zoo's mission beyond its grounds, providing students with hands-on experience and preparing them to contribute to wildlife conservation. Applications for these new stipended internships are expected to open in January 2027, with a February 1 deadline.

Such practical experiences are invaluable for students, offering real-world application of their academic learning. They can observe animal care, participate in conservation projects, and learn from experienced professionals. For students preparing for standardized tests or needing extra help with challenging subjects, COSMIQ also offers a comprehensive exam prep directory and a free practice hub by grade and subject, which can help ensure academic readiness for demanding university programs and internships.

A Legacy of Passion: The Fosters' Enduring Impact

The nearly $3 million gift, with $1.8 million allocated to Blank Park Zoo and $1 million to Drake University, reflects the lifelong passions of Holmes and Marjorie Foster. Holmes Foster, a prominent Iowa banking leader and former state Superintendent of Banking, was a dedicated advocate for higher education. Marjorie Foster, on the other hand, held a deep passion for animals and conservation. Her previous contributions to Blank Park Zoo funded the Holmes Foster Event Center, named for her husband, and the Marjorie A. Foster Lion Conservation Center, which opened in October 2026 and significantly expanded the zoo's space for African lions.

The zoo's share of the current gift will be used to expand special projects and exhibits, separate from its ongoing capital campaign. More details regarding the specific plans for the $1.8 million from the Foster gift are anticipated to be announced at a later date, according to Blank Park Zoo.

This philanthropic gesture underscores the profound impact individuals can have on shaping educational opportunities and advancing critical causes like conservation. It ensures that the Fosters' commitment to education and environmental stewardship will continue to benefit future generations of Iowa students and contribute to the well-being of animals and wild places.

Conclusion

The estate gift from Holmes and Marjorie Foster represents a significant investment in the future of zoology and conservation science education in Iowa. By providing both financial aid and practical experience, the new scholarship and stipended internships at Drake University and Blank Park Zoo are set to empower a new generation of professionals dedicated to protecting our natural world. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and community organizations in fostering talent and addressing global challenges.