Alumni in 5

Eric Drewry '07

Eric Drewry '07

Employer
Detroit Institute of Arts/Director, Department of Protection Services

1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Not long after I graduated in 2007 I went back to work full-time for GVSU as the Dispatch Coordinator for Campus Safety on the Pew Campus. I spent a few years in that position before accepting an amazing opportunity to move to Charlottesville, Virginia, and work at Monticello (the home of Thomas Jefferson) as the Director of Safety & Security. That's also where I met my wife, Carter. We were married in 2015. From there, I made my way back to Michigan about five-and-a-half years ago to work as the Director of the Department of Protection Services at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Carter and I had our son, Robert, in 2017 and love living and working in southeast Michigan, although we both agree that we would definitely move to the Grand Rapids area if we had the chance.

2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
There are so many to choose from! I would say that my favorite memory is probably a collection of memories that I have while working as a dispatcher at the Grand Valley Police Department. I have life-long friends that I met there, I've even officiated two weddings for friends I met at the dispatch desk. But some of my favorite memories were the times when I was in a position to help people, especially other students. Being on the other end of the phone when people needed help - anything from avoiding a parking citation to being the bridge for a student in crisis to connect them to the help they need - I cannot begin to describe the rewarding feeling that comes with that experience. I still use the skills I gained in that role today.

3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Never assume you have all the answers or even know all the right questions to ask. Bill Nye is credited with a great quote related to this advice: "Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don't." I try to remember that with every interaction, and that it is always a two-way street - I'm a life-long student, but also a teacher.

4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand Valley experience.
Consequential. Worthwhile. Lifelong.

5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I want to help other people succeed and reach - or exceed - their goals and potential. I want to do that for as many people as possible. The world is a big elephant to eat, but finding bite-sized pieces around us will help everyone make positive changes.

February 2021

Interest Area(s)
Criminal Justice, Biology, Psychology

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Page last modified February 9, 2021