From sewing costumes for Las Vegas performers to working in hospitals during the MGM Grand fire response, Anni Drury has built a career defined by adaptability.

Today, the Lee Business School NSHE specialist is known not only for managing scholarship systems and student support processes, but also for the compassion she quietly extends to students behind the scenes.

Before arriving at UNLV, Drury helped manage a doctor’s office, taught herself computer systems from library books, and balanced multiple jobs while raising two children as a single mother. Those experiences taught her how to figure things out, even when there was no clear roadmap.

Recently recognized with third place in the UNLV President’s Classified Staff Awards, Drury said the most meaningful part of her work has always been helping others.

What was your reaction to receiving recognition in the UNLV President’s Classified Staff Awards?

I was surprised with all the great coworkers around me. I was truly honored to be recognized. It was actually my first time being nominated, so it made the moment even more special.

What do you enjoy most about your role at Lee Business School?

The students, absolutely. Every student has a different story, and I really enjoy getting to know people and helping however I can. Scholarship administration is a big part of my role, but often students come to me for guidance or support beyond that.

Is there a student interaction that has stayed with you over the years?

One student called me on the weekend and was upset because his mother’s cancer had returned. He wanted to drop out of school to take care of her, and he only had a few weeks left in the semester. I asked him, “How proud would your mother feel if you finished?” I encouraged him to talk to his instructors, and they worked with him so he could complete the semester. His mother eventually passed away, but he graduated, and now he’s pursuing graduate school in cybersecurity. I still keep in contact with him today and am honored to be his friend.

You’ve helped students through emergency situations. Can you talk about that experience?

Years ago, I learned about a student who was homeless and living out of a car with her daughter during Thanksgiving weekend. Her daughter had cystic fibrosis, and they were going through an incredibly difficult time. That experience stayed with me because I wanted to make sure students were connected with the right people and resources during emergencies. Over time, I worked with campus partners to help connect students with hardship support and additional assistance when they needed it most.

Your career path before higher education was incredibly diverse. How did those experiences shape who you are today?

I’ve done a little bit of everything. I worked in hospitals, managed a doctor’s office, developed a tailoring system and costume design, and even taught myself computers from library books when I first started working with them.

I think all of those experiences taught me adaptability. If I didn’t know how to do something, I figured it out. My grandfather took pride in learning something new every day, and I loved that. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career.

You mentioned teaching yourself computers. What was that experience like?

When I first started working with computers, I honestly only knew where the on button was. I remember somebody asked me to save a document, and I thought printing it out and putting it in a basket meant I saved it. I went to the library, checked out books about computers, and taught myself step-by-step. I would give myself a “problem of the day” and work until I figured it out.

How did your tailoring and design background influence your work style?

Tailoring taught me how important organization and visual structure are. Even now, when I build spreadsheets or systems, I think visually. Things need to make sense to people.

What motivates you to continue doing this work year after year?

The students and the people here. I’ve always liked learning new things, and Lee Business School gives me plenty of opportunities to do that. I also really believe students today are trying hard to better their lives. A lot of them are balancing work, family responsibilities, and financial struggles while still pursuing their education.

You’ve spoken a lot about helping others. Where does that mindset come from?

I raised two children with my family's help, and I always wanted to show them the importance of hard work, responsibility, and being there for people. Everything I’ve done throughout my life really comes back to that. Taking care of your family. Supporting people. Helping where you can.

Outside of work, what are some things you enjoy?

I love cooking and trying new recipes. Every weekend, I try to make something new and add it to what I call my “Smiley Cookbook.” I’ve even joked that Lee Business School should create a community cookbook someday where students, faculty, and staff could all contribute recipes and stories.

Looking back on your career, is there a common thread connecting all your experiences?

Absolutely. Adaptability and helping people. For me, it’s always been about being willing to learn something new and helping others along the way.