Renee Raymer Drabier

Profile Updated: January 21, 2024
Class Year: 1971
Residing In: San Antonio, TX USA
Spouse/Partner: Rodney Kaapuni Robinson
Occupation: University administrator retired
Children: No, decided that was not my path. I have wonderful nieces and nephews and now "great nieces and nephews" More…with the next generation. Its fun - I get to play with them and spoil them and then send them home.
Yes! Attending Reunion
What elementary school(s)did you attend?

Roosevelt Elementary

What Jr High (s) did you attend?

Patrick Henry Junior High

What street(s) did you grow up on?

Reid Street

Do you or your family still live or own your house that you grew up in?

No. Sold in the 1980s.

Do you see or hang out with any class mates? Who?

No. I have lived all across the country and lost touch with most people that I have known. 14 years in San Antonio, 7 years in Pueblo, Colorado, 3 years in Farmington, Connecticut, 6 years in Fort Worth, Texas, and now back in San Antonio which is planned to be permanent (probably).

What would we be surprised to know about you?

I am a Ph.D. and MBA, have spent my 30 year career in higher education institutions, especial health science centers. I have been an Associate Dean of the School of Medicine and Associate Vice President at University of Connecticut Health Center, Chief Information Officer and Vice President at two universities, Dean at two universities, Vice Provost for academic affairs, and a number of other roles over my career.
World traveler. Asia Europe, India, China and South Pacific.

Where was your favorite HS hangout?

With friends where ever that took me.

List your siblings and year.

Claire Raymer Rabson, born 1954

School Story:

Ironically, I have never been really excited about being a student. After my bachelor's degree in Music Education/Music Therapy from the University of Kansas, I moved to San Diego California and worked for the San Diego Community College system teaching music and working in rehabiliation in local hospitals and mental health units. After 10 years, I kept getting promoted, so went back to school for an Master of Business Administration at University of Texas San Antonio. After another 10 years, I decided that I would spend my career in higher education so went back to school for my Ph.D. at Texas A&M in educational technology.

What did you want to do or think you were going to do when you finished high school?

The band was always the center of my high school activities. That was continued when I went to Sam Houston State University on a music scholarship. After a couple of years, I got interested in Music in Therapy and transferred to University of Kansas to study with the leaders in the field at that time.

What and where was your 1st job? Do you remember how much you were paid?

First job was Dunkin Doughnuts in Lawrence Kansas to help make ends meet during college.

Favorite Quote

"No matter where you go, there you are. " - The Adventures of Buckaroo Bonzai Across the 8th Dimension

Famous or interesting people you've met?

The most famous was the world-renouned flutist, Jean Pierre Rampal. He was a wonderful person who was willing to share any of his knowledge and experience.
Met Jack Palace once in Santa Fe. Saw the All Blacks rugby team near Hyde Park in London.

Ever been on TV? Tell us all about it.

Haven't been on TV except in some very short news clips where I wasn't featured. Have been in some educational videos though.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I read a lot, love to feed the birds and squirrels, and play on my iPAD to relax. I gave up my horses and bicycle after my second major head injury in 2008 - playing it safer now. I don't play my flute or do enough watercolor painting. Need to work on that.

Name something you dearly love. and why?

I really love my dogs (German Shepherd and an English Whippet). They are spontaneous, honest, and almost always joyous. I was an avid equestrian for many years and owned dressage horses for more than 20 years.

Any words of wisdom?

Life is short. Make time for yourself and do what you love.

Is there a moment in your life that stands out? A moment that defines who you are? Other than kids being born or your wedding day.

In 1976, I was thrown from my horse in San Diego California during an earthquake. Basilar skull fracture - took a long time to completely recover. But I learned at a young age how precious life is and not to take its continuance for granted.

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Posted: Jan 21, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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