Higher education. Learning. Working. Growing.

Everyone's higher education journey unfolds differently, and mine was no exception. I entered college carrying a heavy load of uncertainty about my future direction. While I seemed to be "good" at many things, I struggled to find that elusive spark—a genuine passion that would guide my path forward. Despite reading countless books, taking evaluations, and working through every assessment tool available (long before StrengthsFinder became popular), I found myself with insights but no clear answers.

After completing my general education requirements and briefly exploring interior design, I made a practical decision to pursue business. More importantly, I chose what I now call "the civil servant way"—a debt-free approach that required patience and trust. I accepted an entry-level accounting position at Western Illinois University, drawn by the tuition benefit that would allow me to earn my education while working.

What followed was a slow but steady eight-year journey: two classes each semester, balancing work and study, learning not just from textbooks but from the incredible professors, colleagues, and students who became part of my story. By the time I completed both my bachelor's degree and MBA, I carried with me not just knowledge, but a different kind of debt—a debt of gratitude for everyone who had invested in my growth.

Eventually, the time came to step away from the comfort and security of my University role. It required trust—trust in God's plan and in the foundation I'd built during those formative years. As I embarked on a corporate career, I carried with me the lessons learned through this unconventional but deeply meaningful educational and professional journey.

  • 2005-2013

    Continued forward progression of comprehensive masters-level higher education public institution with 12K students and 125K alumni. Managed special projects and implemented communication and marketing strategies for the College of Business and Technology to achieve enrollment and marketing goals. Managed internal and external resources and budgets to facilitate goals. Mentored and trained staff regarding all policies.

    • Expanded College Marketing function to include a College Webmaster and Student Marketing Assistant

    • Led a university-wide committee focused on development and creation of a Faculty Recruitment website

    • Introduced strategic and tactical marketing action plans as founding director that aided in development of annual marketing goals and statistical benchmarks within the College

    • Developed a Supply Chain Management Conference, engaged corporate strategic partners for financial support

    • Proactively supported and led a 6-month pilot Student Mentoring project

    • Successfully transitioned into teaching role for Principles of Management course including topics Planning, Decision Making, Organizational Structure and Strategy, Team Management, Ethics, Leadership, and Project Management  

  • 1999 - 2005

    Recruited to oversee the interdisciplinary functions designed to support and promote the annual donor stewardship events for the Western Illinois University Foundation and the University President. Served as integral member of the University Development Council and initiated framework for donor prospect research methods. Oversaw development of university trademark licensing policy and responsible for initiating the formal methods of accountability regarding the proper use of all trademark licenses. Negotiated trademark contracts with vendors and collaborated with national licensing corporation.

    • Developed and executed over 25+ major relations and fundraising events hosting over 5K+ guests, alumni, and potential University donors

    • Drove project to form a Trademark Advisory Committee and developed a comprehensive on-campus campaign to protect the integrity of the University’s logo through heightened awareness of trademark licensing

    • Served as founding Director of the “Rams Experience” interactive football event, managed special projects with the NFL St. Louis Ram’s Organization which surpassed expectations in creating positive image of the St. Louis Rams to 20K+ visiting fans each season

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