Gary Porter

Griff Gary Porter

Follow the amazing career of everyone's favorite Bulldog...in his own words!




In My Life as Drake's Top Dog, Griff tells of his time as the university's live mascot-from cheering on the sports teams to collecting donations for his pet food drive, working as a therapy dog, and even campaigning for president. Colorful photos throughout the book help the lovable bulldog tell his story.




Editorial Reviews




Review

"If we measure the quality of a book in part by its subject matter, then Gary Porter's Griff: My Life as Drake's Top Dog is destined to be a best seller. How could it not be when the subject is our very own Griff-the most intelligent, cuddly, caring, athletic, and endearing mascot of all time! If you love Griff the way I do-and who doesn't?-then you need to get this book."

Marty Martin, President, Drake University




"You don't have to be a Drake University alum or an English bulldog lover to enjoy a romp through the professional life of Griff the Mascot. Clearly Gary Porter knows animals and has fun interpreting what we think they are saying. Fun, lighthearted, and a great read for all ages. Griff will steal your heart (and your snacks, if given the chance)."

Tom L. Colvin, Chief Executive Officer, Animal Rescue League of Iowa




"Griff is a hard-working dog. He recruits students, cheers on teams, meets with luminaries, entertains members of the press, and still has time for naps and snacks. Every organization would be well served by a canine ambassador, and I can't imagine a better one than Griff. He's a very good boy, and I'm so glad he is sharing his story with Gary."

Charity Nebbe, Host of Talk of Iowa, Iowa Public Radio




"I am thrilled to have Griff's life so beautifully captured by Gary Porter through Griff's own eyes. When Gary first approached me with the idea for a book, I knew he was perfectly suited to tell Griff's story. He is a Drake alum, an animal lover, and has been a longtime Bulldog supporter. The text and photos truly capture Griff's lovable personality. Well done, Griff! You're simply the best."

Erin Bell, Director of the Drake University Live Mascot Program




About the Author

Native Iowan Gary Porter has a long history with Drake University. He graduated with an accounting degree and went on to a long career as a college professor and textbook author. He is currently a Distinguished Lecturer at Drake and serves on the National Advisory Council for the business school. Gary and his wife, Melissa, support many animal causes, including Drake's Live Mascot Program. His book Duffy: The Tale of a Terrier was inspired by the couple's first shelter dog. Town Kid: Reflections of a Midwestern Boyhood recalls Gary's time growing up in Greenfield, Iowa.




Griff also has a long history with Drake, arriving to take the reins of the Live Mascot Program in 2015. He is the university's furry ambassador, whether he is firing up the crowds at the Knapp Center, posing for selfies with his adoring fans, or providing much-needed stress relief to students during finals. He is a certified therapy dog and is especially proud of his annual Griff Gives Back pet food drive. He became somewhat of a national celebrity during his two presidential campaigns. With his impending retirement, Griff plans to spend more time sleeping, snacking, and providing guidance to his successor, Griff II.