Spotlight On: Andrew Gray

Andrew Gray loves listening to vinyl records, playing board games, and roasting coffee, along with neighborhoods N and R. As neighborhood program director, he plays an important role in shaping neighborhood life through supervising resident directors and community coordinators, and collaborating with resident fellows to lead each neighborhood’s community council.

 

What education and experience do you bring to this work? 

I have an MEd in higher education student affairs administration and leadership from Abilene Christian University in Texas, as well as a BA in religious studies and counseling from Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. I was a community coordinator at Stanford for two years before becoming a neighborhood program director. My most recent job before Stanford was as a live-in resident director at Georgetown University.

 

Tell us about your family.

I have been married for 13 years and I have two kids. My son is 8 and my daughter is 12.

 

What are your hobbies?

I have so many: collecting vinyl records; board games and video games; fitness; hiking; and roasting coffee.

 

What is one experience you think all students should check out?

I like Farm Days (held in the fall) and Farm Fest (held in the spring). It’s awesome – the food, the people, the vibe, the music. It’s just an all-around exciting spot to be in.

 

What is the most unexpected thing you’ve learned about Stanford?

I wasn’t expecting the level of uniqueness of each residential community. There are so many residential houses on campus, and to have them all feel different, with their own flavor, was a welcome, unexpected find. This is largely due to the creativity of the students in creating the vibe and community within each residence hall.

 

How has Stanford changed you as a person?

I am able to embrace change faster and just be flexible with how things unfold. I also have a better understanding of the larger picture and how all the different systems can work together. This allows me to focus on creating a more caring environment for students, so they can really feel at home and thrive.

 

What tips do you have for people who are new to campus?

Take the time to find your people – explore the different clubs and community groups. And don’t be afraid to ask for help, because we have tons of resources.

 

What hidden gems have you discovered on campus?

One is the Cactus Garden (officially called the Arizona Garden) – it’s so cool. I also like the Cantor Arts Center.

 

What are some ways you take care of your health and well-being while at Stanford?

One way is not taking myself too seriously – being able to laugh. Another is spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy listening to a good record and enjoying the California sun.

 

What are some fun facts about you?

I ran track and played football all through high school, and I’m a lifelong Chicago Bears fan.