Biology
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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