How many years have you been in the school business profession?
13 years
How did you first learn about and then become involved in the school business profession?
A superintendent recruited me from the private sector to manage HR and operations for the school district. He then encouraged and helped me obtain a school business manager license and later a school treasurer license.
What is your proudest career accomplishment?
My proudest career accomplishment is the construction project we just finished. We built four facilities for $21 million and were able (through tax arbitrage) to earn the district $1.3 million in interest utilizing certificates of participation. Additionally, the project was finished on time and under budget.
What do you feel is the most important part of your job?
The most important part of my job is to ensure our school district has the ability to ebb and flow with todays' challenges in a way that creates opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and prosper.
What is one thing you feel makes your district unique in the state?
Our district is unique because of our community and students. We are almost 100% agricultural, yet 30 min from downtown Columbus. Our emphasis on small-town values is apparent in everything we do. The students and community make this a special place where people want to be.
What is at the top of your professional bucket list?
At the top of my professional bucket list is to finish my PhD in Educational Leadership.
What is something your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
I have two. One is that Randy Drewyor and I used to run Gus Macker (3 on 3) Basketball tournaments all over the country. And the other is John Rose and I worked at the same radio station in the early 90's. I sold radio ads, and he was a disc jockey!
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
The superintendent says I am a porcupine - but I don't think that is very nice. LOL.
Favorite TV Show?
Gilmore Girls
Favorite Movie?
The American President
Favorite Food?
Steamers (soft shelled clams)
What is one of your favorite expressions?
I am NOT drama; I am FUN!"
When someone finds out what you do, what's one of the first questions they always ask you?
I think we all get the same question - do you get summers off?
What has been the best, or your favorite part of being involved in OASBO?
One of my favorite or best parts of being involved in OASBO is the opportunity to learn and grow. The organization has so many talented, intelligent professionals to learn from; the opportunities are endless - every day!