Danielle R. Drake’s academic journey began at the School of the Osage, where she graduated in 2008, earning a place in the top ten of her class. She fell in love with Kansas State University upon her first visit and decided to enroll following her high school graduation. During her time at K-State, Drake was an active member of Kappa Delta Sorority where she served in a multitude of leadership positions. She was a member of the Mock Trial Team and held leadership roles within the student government of the College of Human Ecology.
Following her graduation from K-State, Drake embarked on a career in corporate meeting planning and nonprofit event coordination. Her diverse experiences honed her organizational skills and instilled in her a deep understanding of the dynamics of small businesses and nonprofits.
In 2017, Drake took a transformative step in her career by pursuing a legal education at the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Law. Despite the challenges posed by a global pandemic, she graduated in 2020, earning recognition for excellence in trial advocacy by being awarded the Order of the Barristers, given to the top 10 courtroom advocates of the graduating class.
Returning to her roots in the Lake of the Ozarks, Drake co-founded a law firm with her esteemed law partner, Jill Parks. Drake’s degree in hospitality management provides a unique perspective, particularly valuable to her small business clients in a region known for tourism and hospitality. Her dedication to community impact extends to her role as a Guardian Ad Litem, where she represents children in Camden and Miller Counties who are alleged victims of abuse and neglect.
Beyond her legal practice, Drake actively contributes to the community. She volunteers with The Changing Table, holding a position on the Board of Directors. Her commitment to the legal profession is evident through her role as co-chair of the continuing legal education committee within the Missouri Bar's Young Lawyer's Section Council where she was recently recognized with an award for her outstanding service to the YLS Council. She is also an engaged member of the Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Young Professionals League, working tirelessly to foster the growth and development of young professionals in the lake area.
Drake's journey is marked by academic excellence, diverse professional experiences, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on her community.
A 2013 graduate of K-State, Drake received degrees in hospitality management and apparel marketing from the College of Human Ecology, now Health and Human Sciences.