2026 40 Under 40: Ethan Sykes

Drury University

BY: Mike Cullinan, Reportermcullinan@sbj.net

Posted online April 3, 2026 | 2:48 pm

Your proudest moment? As a first-generation college student, my goal was simply to prove to myself that I belonged. That journey turned into a lifelong passion, culminating in earning my doctorate.
What about your job would shock people? Supporting the full human experience of college – everything from responding to late-night crises and winter floods to celebrating students who overcome incredible challenges.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? “Live your truth.” Your experiences matter – own them, learn from them and never let someone else write your story.

Noting his leadership is defined by his ability to steward complex systems while centering on people, Ethan Sykes, 34, oversees Drury University’s housing and residential programs operation.

His role, which he began in 2020, encompasses three residence halls, six apartment communities and 10 university-owned houses, which he says accounts for roughly 20% of Drury’s operating revenue. He supervises four university employees and 21 students in the position, as they together design, implement and assess residential programs that integrate academic support, career readiness and student engagement on campus.

Sykes says giving back to the community is an extension of his professional work and serves as executive director of the Springfield Chamber Chorus and Boys Choir of Springfield, which merged in 2025.