I was born raised in Greeley. After I graduated at the top of my class from University High School, I chose to attend the University of Colorado. Being a Buffalo was one of the best choices I have ever made. I found new and lifelong friends, was able to distill my values and beliefs in a crucible of diverse thoughts, experienced working in boardrooms, and was able to lead several student groups and put on large events. During my junior year I became convinced that what I needed most was a year of service, so I skipped my senior year and moved to Arequipa, Peru where I taught English and Math to impoverished seventh and eighth graders. This experience convinced me that I loved educating, and I returned to the United States to complete my education and continue teaching. I have been an educator for thirteen years.
After receiving my bachelor’s degree, I attended the University of South Carolina where I earned a PhD in American History. I taught undergraduates at USC for ten years. During my time at USC, I was heavily involved in campus administration. I served in the graduate student government, on the administrative graduate council, and on numerous steering and advisory councils. I sponsored a major healthcare initiative and built consensus from all levels of administration and ultimately the board of trustees for its successful implementation. Above all, I loved mentoring students and helped many solve problems, navigate academic challenges, and find the resources to succeed in college.
Building from these experiences, in 2020 I founded a coaching business to provide mentoring and help undergraduates beyond USC access success in higher education. This happily allowed my family to return to northern Colorado. My spouse Erika is a music teacher and percussionist who currently teaches at Salida del Sol Academy in Greeley. We are shortly to celebrate our 8th year of marriage and have three children. We are happily introducing our kids to the wonderful parks and trails of the front range.