Regent, Former Board of Regents Chair
Nevada State Higher Education (NSHE)
Type of Business: Higher Education
Based in: Nevada
Hails from: Las Vegas
Years Org.has been in Nevada: 160
Years with Organizationin Nevada: 2
Employees in NV: 14k+
How Did You Get into Your Profession?
After my military service and collegiate studies, I was recruited by a private agency to work for the Department of Defense and later the U.S. Department of State. My experience includes managing multimillion-dollar government projects. I resigned my position overseas and returned to Las Vegas in 2012. Throughout my lifetime I have always answered the call to service. I recognized our education system across the board needed improvement to move education in our state forward, so I ran for the NSHE Regent position in District 3 and was elected in November 2020 to a six-year term.
What Career Advice Would You Give to Someone Just Starting in Your Industry?
I believe that community involvement comes first, prior to jumping into the political waters. For me, it was volunteering as a mentor for the Veterans Treatment Court which later led to suicide prevention advocacy. You don’t have to be in an elected position to improve the lives of others in our community.
What Is an Issue Facing Your Industry an Outside Observer Might Not Be Aware Of?
An outside observer may not recognize that higher education enrollment across the entire state is down and that the unforeseen economic effect could be campus closures. Additionally, the current funding formula for higher education has substantial shortfalls that create real competition between institutions for enrollment.
What Would Be the Title of Your Autobiography?
“From Combat to Commerce to Community Leadership: A Journey of Service and Success”
What Do You Hope Future Generations Can Learn From Your Professional Journey?
That service to others and working towards the betterment of the community in which you live are worthwhile endeavors. To take the high road when faced with adversity, and do not give up. Success must be defined individually and that integrity and character matter in shaping that success. Expect to make mistakes and learn from them while moving on to the next task. Finally, that you are not owed anything, life is unfair, and you must put in the time to build your capabilities to ensure achievement regardless of how you define success.
