My Story

My work experiences are broad and varied.  I earned two engineering degrees and then worked for the Procter & Gamble Corporation for nearly seven years.  Although I was doing well at P&G and working with very talented people, I had no sense of fulfillment from the work I was doing.  Having seen first hand the impact my father had as a teacher, I realized that I needed to change careers so I wouldn’t look back on my life with regret.

I spent the next seven years working as an instructor and administrator in the field of outdoor/experiential education.  Working for the Voyageur Outward Bound School, Binghamton Outdoor Pursuits, and Cornell Outdoor Education transformed me as an individual and has had a lasting impact on my family.  My personal ideologies evolved and my life became more balanced.  I thrived in the role of a teacher and was able to personally connect with my students.  My wife Laurie and I simplified our lifestyle and now thoroughly enjoy the time we have available to spend with our son Jack.  I have a better understanding of who I am, what I am passionate about, and the type of life I would like to lead.

Given that I continually assess my life, including my career, I have decided that I would like to become an elementary school teacher.  I enjoy the innate energy and creativity that children have.  I would like to tap into their curiosity and keep them interested and engaged in learning.  I realize the large responsibility that an elementary school teacher has and the impact that those professionals have on the lives of their students.  I welcome the opportunity to be a role model for children and am excited about helping them both learn and further develop their character.  I will strive to lead by example through my actions and the interactions I have with students, parents, and colleagues.