What is your story? How did you end up in Milwaukee?

I was born in Brookfield, WI and completed my undergraduate degree from Carroll University. After making two "Sweet 16" appearances as a member of both the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) and Carroll University basketball teams, I enjoyed 4 years of professional basketball abroad in Europe and Asia. In the Spring of 2018, I returned back to Milwaukee after 4 incredible years as the Director of Health, PE and Sports (K-12) at Taipei American School in Taipei, Taiwan. 

What keeps you in Milwaukee/What do you like best about Milwaukee?

Milwaukee IS HOME. I'm fortunate to be connected with a community that offers so many opportunities for social and professional growth. The changing landscape of politics and its role in the implementation and integration of public policy provides unique challenges for the residents of Milwaukee. I look forward towards working through these complex issues at the grassroots level with residents. 

Favorite spot in the city?

Now that it's been completed, my favorite spot is the new Fiserv Forum. A close second would be the breakwall at McKinley Marina during sunrise.

Milwaukee festival you are eager to attend each year?

It may be cliché, but I've got to stick with the best cream puffs on earth and the Wisconsin State Fair.

What drew you to Echelon?

Echelon has a very clear and deliberate, long-term strategy for the city of Milwaukee. I believe this clarity and its strong relationship with the Salvation Army were what attracted me the most to this organization.

Share with us a memorable experience you have had thus far with the organization.

Thus far, its been a pleasure meeting committee members and establishing quality dialogue along the way. I look forward to many memorable experiences with Echelon moving forward.

What struggles do you see our city dealing with? What can our generation do to help?

The Salvation Army is a bright beacon in a city darkened by the inconsistent treatment of impoverished and marginalized citizens. Locally and statewide Milwaukee's projected reputation is less than perfect. I believe this perception is somewhat skewed and negatively amplified by the medias propensity to share less than positive or tragic information with the viewing public. In reality, nearly all Milwaukee residents are hard-working, generous souls who would give the shirt of their back to someone in need. Ultimately, our generation is in unique position to inspire change in this city. We can all be effective change catalysts if we make a concerted effort, each day, towards doing something positive for someone else.