Eric Deister
Microsystems Team Manager,
Computer and Information Systems

“Eric is the embodiment of servant leadership.”
“Eric impacts the lives of everyone who works for or with him.”
“Eric is always willing to help people grow in their personal and professional lives, even if it comes at the cost of something he is pursing.”

These are typical comments SPU faculty and staff members make when talking about Eric Deister, Microsystems Team Manager in the Office of Computer and Information Systems (CIS). Eric grew up overseas in a small, remote jungle village in Bolivia as a Missionary Kid (MK) where his parents supported Bible translators. It wasn’t until he was older that he decided to come to the States to start working. Eric’s tenure and family involvement at SPU brings to mind the hymn “Blessed Be The Tie That Binds”. Throughout most of his 20+ years at SPU, he’s worked in CIS, where he assists the University community and encourages his staff to build relationships with those they serve. In addition, he’s had siblings attend SPU, and even met his wife, Peg, on campus while she was an SPU employee.

In Eric’s current position, he oversees a team of four full-time staff members and a group of student workers who provide computer technical support to faculty and staff.  His love of technology was always a motivator for Eric to work in CIS, but he really wanted to help end users achieve their work-related goals.  He believes that technology should never hinder a person from doing his or her work well. Instead, technology should help facilitate work and allow users to be more effective. 

When asked about his time at SPU, Eric fondly talks about the relationships he has made with people throughout the years.  He sees SPU as a great community, full of people who are understanding, gracious, patient and just a joy to be around.  He enjoys his job day in and day out because he gets to work with people who build each other up. Every day there’s a smile on his face.

Eric's constant caring and compassionate demeanor exemplify what it means to be an SPU employee. He’s always willing to lend a hand, like taking time to help answer phones or covering the HelpDesk when those employees have a team meeting.  Thank you, Eric, for the many years you have worked at SPU.  The Staff Council also thanks you for your service and is pleased to recognize you as SPU Staff Member of the Month.