Home: Manhattan, KS. Age: 57. Birthplace: Junction City, KS. Profession: Career Counseling. Alma mater: Emporia State University; Wichita State University.
Current project: Active in church, veteran organizations, and civic groups. Recent recognition: Kansas Department of Commerce Employee of the Quarter. Latest accomplishment: Participated in community fun runs benefiting local charities. Latest contribution to others: Contributions to First Baptist Church and local Solar Kiwanis Organization. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Obtaining a new job and relocating to a new community. Hobbies: Farming and ranching operations, traveling and attending sporting events. Recent unique acquisition: Restoring my dad’s 1949 Chevy pickup.
Moral compass: The Golden Rule. How do you define a perfect friendship? Someone you can trust and depend on. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Communication, mutual respect, being responsive to others. What is your greatest joy? Helping others succeed. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Those serving in the military and public service. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Traveling and attending sporting and music events. How do you relieve stress? Exercise, listening to music, talking to friends. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Attending sporting events and taking local tours.
What was your first paying job? Admissions counselor at Emporia State University. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Monopoly game and basketball. What movie have you repeatedly watched? Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? Sports coaches, civic and faith-based leaders. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Be confident and respectful. What company or organization do you most admire? Kiwanis International. What personal circumstance has had the greatest influence on your life? My college and military experience.
What is your big idea?
Networking is better than not working.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Increase my proficiency within technology. What change would you like to see in the world? Peace and safety for all mankind. What message do you want to send out into the world? Cherish yesterday, dream tomorrow, and live today. What mega-trend most concerns you? The lack of personal interaction.
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Attitude is Everything. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My parents and family members. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? A professional basketball or baseball player. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Family photo album. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? Making phone calls to family members and friends. What advice would you give your younger self? Be a good decision maker. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? My college graduations.
Personal mission: Service to others. Personal motto: Seize the day. Favorite quote: “He who is not everyday conquering some fear had not learned the secret of life” (Ralph Waldo Emerson). Desired epitaph: Keep smiling.
