What do you like about your job?

What I love most about my job is meeting UIS alumni and friends, hearing about their time at Sangamon State or UIS, learning about their careers and discovering their passions. It’s rewarding to connect those passions to the university’s and colleges’ priorities and show how their philanthropic support can make a real difference. Watching someone see the impact of their gift firsthand is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.

I also really enjoy working with our team of gift officers. We share ideas, support each other and celebrate successes together — it is a great group to be part of.

What kind of student were you?

I believe my passion for higher education fundraising truly began with my own college experience. I attended a public regional university in Texas and was very involved in student organizations. As a first-generation college student, my grades were average—but the relationships I built with faculty mentors and the experiences I had outside the classroom were what truly shaped me.

I was fortunate to receive scholarships and program funding that allowed me to participate in research and other hands-on opportunities. That support made a huge difference in my life and showed me firsthand the power of philanthropy in helping students reach their goals.

What do you like to do outside of work? How do you like spending time with friends and/or family?

I have been happily married to my wife, Amber, for 15 years. She has been my biggest supporter throughout my career in higher education fundraising as we have moved to four universities across three states. We have an 8-year-old son, Myles, who keeps us on our toes and makes life a lot of fun!

Outside of work, I am a member of the American Business Club of Springfield and am always looking for other opportunities to get involved in the community. At home, I enjoy grilling and smoking different kinds of meat — it’s a great way to relax and unwind.

Myles and I enjoy fishing together. He trains and competes in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and recently joined Cub Scouts, so our evenings and weekends are often filled with his activities. As a family, we’ve enjoyed exploring central Illinois — taking road trips, visiting fruit farms, checking out local historical sites and finding new fun things to do together.

What’s your favorite season of the year and why?

Growing up in Texas, I didn’t really experience all four seasons—so living in the Midwest has been a treat! I have come to appreciate each one: spring’s sense of renewal, summer’s long days and time outdoors, fall’s colors and crisp air, and even the quiet beauty of winter.

If I had to choose, fall is probably my favorite. I love watching the leaves change, seeing the fields being harvested, and spending time outside on those cool mornings and evenings. There is just something peaceful about it.