Ginger Derrow, Assistant Director of Development Research & Donor Experience, University of Michigan

What was your first job?

My first job was in high school working as a page at my local library. The best part of the job was working the Friday evening and Saturday morning shifts because the librarian let me take home all the new magazines to read overnight.

What’s your favorite thing about what you do or where you work?

One of my favorite parts of my current role is supporting the arts and libraries units across campus. There are so many amazing arts-related events going on across campus year-round. I majored in art history and have a degree in library science, so I feel a personal connection to the work. 

What could you give a 40-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?

Baking bread. I have been baking challah for years, and I recently learned how to bake sourdough bread. I enjoy sharing my newfound knowledge, sourdough starter, and loaves with friends and family.

What are you reading now?

I just bought Buckeye, by Patrick Ryan, to read while I'm on vacation. It's a multigenerational novel that follows two families from the end of World War II through the late 20th century. If you're wondering about the title, yes, it is set in Ohio.

What would be the first thing you'd do if you won the lottery?

I would buy a lake house in Northern Michigan so I could spend my summers kayaking and hiking in the woods.

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