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Spotlights » Dwayne W. Moore, '93
Dwayne W. Moore, '93, was recently promoted to Director of Operations at the David D. Hunting YMCA in downtown Grand Rapids. He is responsible for staff, board and program development and budgeting of the $8.4 million facility. He has been with the organization for over 12 years, where he started out managing the sports program at the struggling, original downtown facility. "I'm proud of what I do. I enjoy the chance to serve others and feel blessed to have been able to move my way up through hard work and dedication," says Moore.
Moore credits Grand Valley and relationships he made while attending for helping him to reach this career goal. "I actually got started with the YMCA at the urging of Leroy Hackley (former Associate Director of GVSU's Wellness and Recreation Services)," explains Moore, who worked under Hackley as a student employee in the intramural sports program. A criminal justice major, he was working as a public safety officer for the Lansing School District before joining the YMCA. "[Hackley] recognized my ability to serve individuals through this type of outreach before I was aware of my potential."
"The YMCA has truly become part of my life," continues Moore. "I try every day to live the motto of building strong children, strong families and strong communities." He is especially proud of working at the Hunting facility where the diversity of clientele and his staff are a true reflection of the community. "People of all ages, races, and backgrounds are welcome at our YMCA which bridges the gap between the inner city and suburban areas. This was the vision of Mr. Hunting and I strive to help fulfill that vision."
The Lansing native was recruited to play football at Grand Valley in 1987. After just three short weeks of practice, he injured his knee and needed surgery. "Looking back, [the injury] really opened my eyes," he admits. Although Moore recuperated and was able to continuing playing for the Lakers, his dreams of becoming a professional athlete were ended. "You know, every kid dreams of going on to play pro. After the knee injury, I realized this wasn't a reality and really began to put a focus on the need for education. I started working hard in areas outside of just athletics." Moore is glad he did. "My degree is still helping me. I truly got an education at Grand Valley - in more than just criminal justice but in life experience."
He hopes that his experiences can help him as he shapes future leaders through youth programming and also with his staff, many of whom are current GVSU students. "I try to lead by example and hope I can be a positive role model for someone else out there."
Moore currently lives in Grand Rapids with his wife of nearly 16 years, Carla, and their five children.
Added November 2007
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