Lincoln, Neb. —
What is your background before coming to the University of Nebraska Lincoln?
Following graduation from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, I was involved with production agriculture in Butte, Nebraska where I had started a herd of registered Angus cattle as part of my 4-H and FFA projects. I also worked in several segments of the agriculture industry before having the opportunity to take an alternative path to attain a teaching certificate under the tutelage of Dr. Lloyd Bell. Teaching was my calling, and I was an agricultural educator and FFA advisor for 21 years before coming to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as part of the Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication faculty.
What is your position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
My position at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is as a faculty lecturer. However, my role on the ALEC Teacher Prep team allows me to connect with and support agricultural and skilled/technical sciences teachers from around the state. My goal is to visit each new Ag Ed or STS teacher in my region of the state. I enjoy mentoring younger or inexperienced teachers and really enjoy helping them envision how they can craft authentic, hands-on learning experiences for students in their classrooms and beyond.
What drew you to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
The decision to attend the university as an undergraduate was one of those life-altering events that certainly changed the trajectory of my life. While in high school, I attended the Nebraska Society of Range Management Range Camp, and Dr. Steve Waller was one of the camp facilitators. I recall his passion for range management, agriculture, and Nebraska, and it was very apparent where I should attend college. I will always recall that early experience with Dr. Steve Waller and it will continually remind me of how passion and enthusiasm can create connections with students and inspire them to reach for goals they never would have considered.
What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?
I know this may be cliché, but the “AHA” moment still inspires me and drives me to reach students, teachers, and colleagues and connect learning opportunities. My previous experience in the classroom allows me to provide a unique perspective to my ALEC colleagues. Additionally, Dr. Mark Balschweid is an outstanding leader who facilitates progress and inspires achievement by fostering a family atmosphere within the department which extends to everyone from students to seasoned faculty members. He will be the first to congratulate you on your progress and always offers encouragement and support for the work we are doing on and off campus.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Being a “family man” is my greatest achievement. I take pride in being a great husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather. My late father was an outstanding example of being a great husband and dad. My goal is to be the kind of dad he was, and I try to model my life around his memory. Additionally, I am proud of the path which I have taken to become an educator and it’s a true example of how CASNR stays connected with graduates and can support you in your profession and career long after you have been a student.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I love to cook! I enjoy cooking on the grill and smoker, but I also enjoy baking and creating new or unique recipes. I love to cook meals for my family and friends and find myself looking online or watching the Food Network to find my next inspiration.
What is your life like outside of work?
Beyond cooking, I also enjoy gardening, landscaping, and mowing our lawn. These activities still give me my “farming fix,” and I really enjoy completing projects with my wife. Additionally, I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, playing cards, and reading.
