Dave Holzner

Can you give me a brief timeline of how your career led you to UIS?

I was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and grew up in Mahomet, Illinois, where I graduated from high school in 1996. I played golf in high school and college before beginning a professional playing and teaching career with Troon Golf and Golf Digest in Scottsdale, Arizona. During that time, I was fortunate to earn a win on the Pepsi Tour.

Like many members of my family, I later began a career at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I joined the university in March 2011 as a security guard at the Beckman Institute. About a year and a half later, I was promoted to security supervisor at the Krannert Art Museum, a role that eventually transitioned into facility manager.

While working at Krannert, I married my wife, Rachel, a Springfield native, and we welcomed our two children, Will and Molly Jean. During my time at UIUC, I also completed my bachelor’s degree through Eastern Illinois University. That decision was driven by our goal of relocating to Springfield to raise our family, a move that ultimately brought us to UIS in July 2023.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I am a longtime IndyCar fan, and my family has embraced the sport as well. We attend races each year, including the Indianapolis 500. My 7-year-old son and I also compete in local go-kart racing through the Mid-State Kart Club. He races nationally in the Cup Karts North America series and is a top contender.

In addition to racing, I enjoy creating video and social media content to document his racing career and experiences. I share those moments through his “Will the Thrill” Racing pages on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

Who’s someone you admire?

I admire people who pursue their craft at a high level. That can include accomplished athletes or drivers, artists such as Bob Ross, musicians or even someone who excels at something as technical as Microsoft Excel. I appreciate the dedication and discipline it takes to reach that level, as well as the work required to sustain it.

What’s your favorite type of cuisine?

German cuisine is a favorite of mine, largely because my father was from Germany and it was a staple in our home growing up. My favorite meal is a beef and pork roast with farina dumplings, gravy and sauerkraut. Dishes such as rouladen with spaetzle and schnitzel with German potato salad are also high on my list. Outside of German food, a classic Italian beef is always a go-to.