Exceptional Scholarships

The Dwight D. Opperman and Sheldon T. and Terry K. Fleck Scholar Programs are Drake Law's most prestigious awards. The scholarships provide full-tuition awards and $10,000 living stipends to outstanding entering students. 

Program Overviews

Opperman Scholar Program

Dwight D. Opperman, LW'51, created the Opperman Scholar Program to identify and reward students of exceptionally high achievement and potential whose emphasis on learning influences and inspires others around them. Opperman was the CEO of West Publishing Company, one of the leading publishers of law-related content. 

Candidates for the Opperman Scholar Program must demonstrate evidence of superior academic success and potential, achieve noteworthy law entrance exam scores and demonstrate significant community and extracurricular experiences. Among the candidates who meet the criteria, preference will be given to children of employees of West Publishing Company, West Group, and successor companies, as well as children of Article III federal judges. 

Each year three Opperman Scholars are selected to join this prestigious group. 

Fleck Scholar Program

Sheldon, LW'75, and Terry K. Fleck created the Fleck Scholarship to support students with superior academic records and potential who also demonstrate financial need. In addition to its financial advantages, legal employers will recognize the Fleck Scholar designation as an indicator of outstanding potential. 

Candidates for the Fleck Scholar Program must demonstrate evidence of superior academic success and potential, achieve noteworthy law entrance exam scores, and demonstrate financial need. Each year one Fleck Scholar will be designated in each entering class. 

Selection Process

To be considered for these prestigious awards, students need only to submit their application for admission to Drake Law School. The applications of all admitted students will be screened by the Admission and Scholarship Committee and potential candidates will be contacted for interviews.