Perry Alexandrides Jr. joined NEOMED in September as associate director of government and external affairs. The Youngstown State University graduate was previously the East Regional Liaison with the Ohio Auditor of State’s Office, where he oversaw 10 counties in Eastern and Northeastern Ohio. He recently shared more about himself and his new position with The Pulse.
What is your role at NEOMED?
My role is to build and maintain relationships at the local, regional and state levels on behalf of NEOMED, as well as assisting with lobbying efforts. I am also responsible for representing the University at a variety of public and official events.
What led you to NEOMED?
My parents always wanted me to attend medical school (specifically at NEOMED), and while that didn’t work out as hoped, I’m here now! I have always had a high opinion of NEOMED and many positive experiences over the years in my interactions with the University. Ultimately, I am passionate about Northeast Ohio and I’m excited to play a role in growing and bringing awareness to the University.
What do you hope to accomplish in your new role?
My aim is to greatly expand awareness of the accomplishments and pursuits of NEOMED, to continue to build on the positive reputation of the University and to encourage a more regional mindset among elected officials and community leaders.
What inspired you to work in your profession?
Growing up in Northeast Ohio, I see an incredible amount of opportunity in the area, but also a very profound need. I wanted to help the region and people that I love, and I felt that shining a spotlight on the area could improve the opportunities and outcomes here.
Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
I grew up in the Youngstown area (Boardman/Poland) and still reside there.
Tell me about your family. Any pets?
My parents were both in the health care field, with my mom working as an ICU nurse for over 30 years. I have two brothers and I am the middle child. My younger brother works at a power plant, while my older brother is a Greek Orthodox priest. I also recently became an uncle in January, as my older brother and his wife had their son Nektarios! My dog Roxie passed away a little over a year ago, but her memory still brings me so much joy. She was a therapy dog who absolutely loved people and even had a career as a model for Milk-Bone!
What’s your favorite book or book you’ve been recommending lately? Why?
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin. I love reading about Abraham Lincoln, as he was such an incredible leader who faced near-impossible odds after a remarkably challenging life.
You’ve been invited to a potluck. What’s your go-to dish? Why?
Salsa. I got a recipe handed down to me and have adapted it over the years. It’s delicious.
What do you do better than anyone you know?
I can sing! I’m not the best, but I did send in an audition tape for the TV show “Glee.” My friends and I also put on a “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Christmas caroling” show every year in our hometown. We sing Christmas carols that are heavily reworked to be Ninja Turtles-themed (including original songs).
What’s the best advice you ever received?
My dad always taught me about the power of kindness. He has always had a unique ability to connect with people that I (very luckily) inherited. It has helped me immensely in my career and in life, generally. He would talk to random people he had just met for hours when I was little, and would often tell me, “So many people just want someone to be nice to them.” I have both seen and experienced how transformational kindness and consideration can be.
Anything else the campus community should know about you or your role?
I want to help as much as possible in my role. If you think I can help you, or can have an impact somewhere, please don’t hesitate to reach out!