My Fellow Hoosiers,

 

Thank you for considering me for the open seat on the Indiana University Board of Trustees. My connection to IU began when I was just seven years old, attending my first IU football game in 1973. Since then, I have been a lifelong supporter of this great university, which I have proudly called my second home for over 40 years.

 

I have experienced many memorable moments in our shared Hoosier history. Growing up in the Broad Ripple area of Indianapolis, I attended multiple basketball games during the historic 1975 and 1976 seasons. When it came time to apply for college, IU was my only choice. 

 

I celebrated alongside fellow Hoosiers at Showalter Fountain when Keith Smart delivered that game-winning shot in the 1987 National Championship. I rejoiced as we triumphed over Ohio State at the Shoe and celebrated a rainy victory against Michigan later that same year. I had the honor of being present when Coach Knight returned to Assembly Hall in 2020. My time at IU included living in Willkie Hall as a freshman, enjoying two years living at my fraternity house (Delta Upsilon), and exploring life off campus as a senior at Timber Ridge.  I graduated from the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs in 1988, channeling my passion for environmental issues into my career.

 

Professionally, I served as President of the Environmental Division of Cardno (formerly JFNew) in Northern Indiana for 22 years. I led a talented team of 1,200 scientists—many IU alumni—across 130 offices nationwide, generating $450 million in annual revenue. In 2021, I skillfully guided the firm's sale to a major publicly traded company, maintaining my commitment to excellence in the environmental field. I currently serve as a Senior Director of Environmental Services for Atwell, a national leader in the field.  My work has focused on preserving our natural resources, protecting endangered species, and restoring vital habitats—all while prioritizing strong financial performance and a safe working environment for my team. My success has stemmed from proactive, respectful communication, transparency, and a relentless dedication to operational excellence.

 

Community engagement is not just a part of my life; it's a cornerstone. I've served as President of the Indiana Chapter of Delta Upsilon Alumni Corporation Board for over six years, and my active board membership for 12 years has represented over 2,000 Indiana Alumni globally. I understand the unique challenges Greek life faces on campus, and I'm committed to fostering a safe, supportive environment for all students while advocating ethical and fair governance from university administrators.

 

Currently, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Dunes Learning Center in Northwest Indiana, a vital educational partner of Indiana Dunes National Park. Our innovative environmental education programs impact over 15,000 students annually across Northwest Indiana and Chicago, inspiring a lifelong commitment to nature and responsible stewardship.

 

Additionally, I have served as an elected Town Council member for Michiana Shores, Indiana, winning my election in 2019. In this role, I helped update town ordinances, addressed public service concerns, and listened to community feedback. I have also held leadership roles on the Chicago Wilderness Corporate Council Board (serving as treasurer), the City of LaPorte Historic Preservation Commission, and various volunteer organizations, including the National Park Service and Girls on the Run.

 

My connection to IU extends to my family; both of my daughters are proud graduates. My oldest earned her Masters in Public Health in 2020 and was as a Division I student-athlete at Bowling Green State University as an undergraduate in Cross Country & Track, and my youngest earned her Bachelor of Science in Education that same year and was actively involved in her sorority (Alpha Phi). Both successfully navigated the challenges of graduating during the pandemic.

 

You will often find me in Bloomington, especially during football season. I have had a bucket hanging at Nick's since 1986 and enjoy visiting the traditional spots around town, though I am saddened by the loss of many beloved establishments in recent years.

 

I bring a wealth of experience crucial for the role of Trustee, including leadership, strategic planning, effective communication, budgeting, fiduciary responsibility, stewardship, capital campaigns, negotiation, and sound judgment. I firmly believe in accountability—for myself, the Board of Trustees, and university leadership. I will ensure that every decision is informed by the voices of students, alumni, faculty, and staff working tirelessly to position Indiana University as a model institution. IU must consistently offer a positive and enriching experience for students, faculty, staff and alumni. As many of our children and grandchildren are or plan to attend Indiana University, I am committed to ensuring their experiences are as rewarding as mine was. As a Trustee, I will strive to turn this vision into reality.

 

Thank you for your time and consideration. I respectfully ask for your vote for the Trustee position.