Alisia Drew is living proof that a few small ideas can lead to a whole lot of change.
An alumna of the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Alisia graduated in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in child development and family relations and a minor in sociology with a concentration in human services. She then received her master’s degree in adult and community education in 2013. Now, she works full time as the assistant director of Health AWAREness and women’s programs in the Center for Health and Well-Being. However, her job can hardly be described as “work” since she enjoys it and is quite passionate about her occupation.
“What I love about my job is that I get to work with students,” says Alisia. “I get to talk a lot about college health issues from sexual health, to body image, and cancer. I also work with the Haven Project, which is really near and dear to my heart, so I deal a lot with the prevention of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.”
Alisia is also an advocate for social justice. She helps to run IUP’s Women’s Leadership Development Series, a sequence of workshops that discusses gender issues and what can be done to improve women’s status on campus.
“It is so cool to have the opportunity to work with students who are so passionate about social justice topics,” says Alisia. “We have a ton of students who are so dedicated and who want to make the world a better place. It is very inspiring and empowering.”
And speaking of inspiration, Alisia finds it in a very specific role model. “When I came here as an undergraduate student, I had the opportunity to work with Malinda Levis, the associate director of the Center for Health and Well Being. She really helped to shape me and to grow not just as an employee but as a person. She taught me how to make a positive influence in this world.”
As for what the future holds, Alisia is proud to say that she isn’t quite sure of her career goals. “Some people like to have a five year plan,” she says. “But that doesn’t work for me because I am so fascinated with everything. In the long run though, I want to be in a profession where I am making a difference. I don’t need a specific income, I just want to know that I am making the world a better place.”
Little by little, Alisia is doing just that. Through her many activities, such as Feminist Fridays, which are held the last Friday of every month and discuss women’s roles in society, Alisia is fostering the idea that everybody deserves to be treated with fairness and kindness, and that change starts with one small step.
“It’s really important for people to realize the power that they have.” Alisia admits. “Anybody can make an impact, and if you feel as if you can’t do it alone, there are so many people, especially on a college campus, that have the same opinions as you and can help you grow.”
Alisia’s determination to make a difference is one that can be greatly admired. With all of the profound ideas she has, it is evident that Alisia Drew will be a name to remember.