In the time that she served on the Alvin College Board of Regents, Vice Chair Jody Droege has seen many changes at the college, whether it was upgraded facilities, new programs or policy improvements.
“When I joined the board, I wanted to give back to the institution that had given me so much,” Droege said. “Through every debate every disagreement every challenge and every celebration there was one goal and that was doing what was best for our students, our staff and our community.”
After 12 years as a regent, Droege decided to not seek reelection for the board and stepped down during the board meeting on May 12.
While a regent on the board, Droege has played a key role in guiding significant growth and transformation at the college. She supported approval of the 2018 and 2025 Maintenance Tax Notes, which funded critical upgrades to campus facilities and infrastructure, as well as subsequent construction projects. She also provided leadership during the planning and development of the Alvin College West facility.
“Jody is a champion of showing her heart and the love she has for this institution,” said Board Chair ‘Bel Sanchez. “We are very happy (she) had all of this involvement in all of these great things.”
Droege’s motivation as a member of the board was simple, to ensure that students were receiving the best education from the college, President Dr. Robert J. Exley said.
“She remained focused on a simple yet powerful mission: put students first, support faculty and staff, provide thoughtful oversight and serve our community with integrity,” he said. “She has lived that mission every single day. Over the past 12 years Jody has guided a period of meaningful growth and transformation at Alvin College.”
Droege started taking courses at Alvin College in 1992 before graduating with an Associate’s Degrees in Business Management and Business Administration.
“To me that was a goal that I wanted to set for myself,” she said.
While serving on the board, Droege saw the college create its first Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management.
“I was proud to see the Bachelor’s Degree come to fruition,” she said. “What an amazing value for our students to get a four-year degree right here in our local home town. That is going to have such incredible impact on our students.”
Creating a facility on the west side of the college district was one of Droege’s main goals when she joined the board. The opening of the Alvin College West Campus was one of the most important accomplishments during Droege’s tenure as a regent, she said.
“That day represented vistion, growth and opportunity for future generations of students,” she said. “I am so proud we were a part of that.”