Spotlight on Volunteers

How long have you been involved with SACUBO, and in what capacity?

I’ve been involved with SACUBO for several years and have served on the Community College Constituency Committee for the past three. That role has allowed me to engage with peers across institutions and contribute to discussions that shape SACUBO’s support for two-year colleges.

What motivated you to volunteer with SACUBO?

I’ve always appreciated SACUBO’s focus on professional development and collaboration. Volunteering was a way to give back to a community that’s helped me grow as a leader, and to help ensure that the unique needs of community colleges are represented in broader conversations.

What has been your most memorable SACUBO event or experience, and why?

Attending my first SACUBO Annual Meeting in Louisville was a standout experience. The sessions were relevant, the networking was energizing, and it was clear that SACUBO fosters a strong, supportive professional community. It gave me a broader view of the challenges and innovations happening across higher education. Also, the Welcome parties can be very interesting!

How has volunteering with SACUBO impacted your professional growth or your institution?

It’s helped me stay connected to emerging trends and best practices in higher education finance. The relationships and insights I’ve gained through SACUBO have informed how we approach strategic planning and resource management at Tulsa Community College and have helped me mentor my team with a wider lens.

Tell us something fun or unique about you outside of work.

I enjoy traveling with my wife and kids. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or exploring somewhere new together, it’s always time well spent. My kids are active in sports, so a lot of my free time is spent on the sidelines or helping coach. It’s a great way to stay connected as a family and support their growth both on and off the field.

How long have you been involved with SACUBO, and in what capacity?

I am currently in my third year of service on the Research Constituents Committee

What motivated you to volunteer with SACUBO?

When an email from SACUBO landed in my inbox, it came at the perfect time: right after a session with my VCU Leadership Development Program mentor. I had just made a personal commitment to act on opportunities as they arose, and the SACUBO volunteer role was my first chance to execute my commitment and put my leadership development goals into practice.  I continue my service with SACUBO because it is a direct investment in my career and in the field itself. This role provides an opportunity to grow my professional network, stay ahead of industry trends through continuous learning, and contribute tangibly to the valuable annual programming that supports my organizational colleagues.

What has been your most memorable SACUBO event or experience, and why?

The most impactful moment for me was a workshop at the Annual Meeting focused on AI capabilities. Prior to that session, I was skeptical of the technology and unsure how it applied to our work. As one of the few attendees starting from zero experience, the presenter's insight was an eye-opening experience and a genuine game-changer. It transformed my understanding of what's possible and inspired me to embrace new tools.

How has volunteering with SACUBO impacted your professional growth or your institution?

My SACUBO involvement has been critical for strategic insight and has provided resources for best practices and avoiding common pitfalls.

Tell us something fun or unique about you outside of work.

Pottery has become my favorite hobby since becoming an empty nester. This year, I formalized that passion by joining a local studio. I love creating handcrafted gifts for my family and friends, and my work spans a wide range of projects, from dinnerware and plates to ambitious decorative items like lamps and windchimes. I've even found a very enthusiastic patron: my youngest daughter, who serves as my primary (though completely unpaid) commissioner. She's accumulated so many pieces for her apartment that I may soon have enough for a solo exhibition opening in her living room.