CAMPUS LIFE

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"We never said we couldn't." John Drinkwater lives by that phrase. A student at Central Washington University in the late 1960s, John began his professional career at CWU in 1975 as an advisor to student government. Since then, anyone involved with student leadership or activities at Central has come to know John, whose role over time has evolved into Senior Director of Campus Life and Student Union.

For more than 30 years, John has been a powerful voice for Central students. "I have always held strong to the premise that student leaders are the foundation that holds this University up," says John. "They truly represent the students. Without them, our assessment of the needs of students doesn’t have a linkage."

Through the years, John has played a major role in placing students at the table with campus administrators and decision makers. He believes a successful partnership between the university and its students starts with student government.

"Students need to have a voice. They need to have input," states John. "What’s most important is that students are respected and a part of the process.

"A genuine friend and mentor, John has made a significant impact on those whose lives he’s touched. He explains, "I carry with me a simple principle. Always treat students the way you treat your best friend."

Today, we ask for your help in supporting the student voice at Central by making a gift to the John Drinkwater Leadership Scholarship. Your support will help ensure the student leaders of today experience similar opportunities and the same genuine respect, commitment and success you came to know as a leader at Central.

"Any time we’re able to give scholarships to students, we’re freeing them up a little bit and giving them an opportunity to get more involved in what they’re passionate about," notes John. "I hope this scholarship reminds past students of what we accomplished together and that it inspires them to want to help others achieve the same outcome."