Anything with soul: spotlight on Don Griffis
If you are lucky enough to meet Don Griffis, you’ll immediately have a new friend on campus. Don, a Groundskeeper II with Grounds Services, can often be found taking care of the Diag and other campus areas. As one of the most positive people you are likely to meet, a quick hello can easily turn into a fascinating and inspiring conversation.
What could you talk about for 20 minutes, with no preparation, that’s not related to your job?
Literally anything! I’m told I have the gift of gab, though my grandmother at 98 can outtalk me any day.
What has been one of your biggest accomplishments?
Being a husband and father – I’m very proud of my wife and kids. Both kids are college educated and hard working, and my wife is a 30-year nurse. All are kind human beings.
As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A truck driver. I’ve always been interested in trucks and other heavy equipment. Growing up, I had a neighbor with a trucking company who enlisted me early. I earned a class-A commercial drivers license and loved the travel and ability to make friends all over.
What inspires you?
Mentoring people with brain cancer to help them stay positive, and the importance of the mind-body connection. (Don is a brain cancer survivor.) I have been doing the mentoring ever since I was given the “all clear” 26 years ago.
What’s your favorite genre of music?
I’m a guitar player and singer and love all types of music, and love country, blues, rock’n’roll and old school funk. Anything with soul!
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
My son won tickets from a radio station about 10 years ago and they weren’t just concert tickets to see Jason Mraz, they were meet-and-greet tickets. We got to meet Jason before his concert at EMU’s convocation center. It was a totally awesome experience for both of us! Also he put on a fantastic show as well.
If you see Don while walking through campus, stop and say hi. You’re likely to find every conversation uncovers new information about this person, full of kindness and positivity.
Written by Anya Dale
