Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Aaron Woodruff, Illinois State University chief of police.
As chief of police, what do you do?
It’s pretty self-explanatory.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
16 years.
What do you love most about working at ISU?
The one thing that makes Illinois State unique is the people! It’s like a large extended family.
What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people?
I think it sometimes surprises others that I’m an introvert.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
During the NFL season, I’m planted on my sofa or my seat at Soldier Field! Otherwise, I love to ride my bike, exercise, and spend time with my family at Disney World.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
The Quad when I worked midnight shifts during winter breaks. Particularly when there was a slow, steady snowfall. The snow would cover everything like a blanket, and was completely undisturbed by people’s footprints. The air was so calm that a fog would develop and embrace all of the buildings and trees, and the lampposts would be surrounded by a warm, soft yellow glow. It’s a beautiful scene that most people on campus never get to see or appreciate.
What is your favorite quote?
I have two favorite quotes: “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”—Maya Angelou
“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”—Winston Churchill
