Rural County Life - I’ve lived in Woodford County for nearly 25 years, arriving in 2003 taking a job with State Farm as a consultant in organizational change. Woodford County reminds me of my home town, Clinton, IA a few hours north on the Mississippi River. Even though Clinton was largely an industrial town back in my day, my parents built a home outside of town, living among corn and soybean fields. We even built a “Field of Dreams” of our own 15 years before the movie hit the big screen. I’m a huge baseball fan, Cubs specifically. But like religion, I respect where everyone gets their passion.
My lovely wife, Becky and I, live in Kappa with our pack of beagles we’ve rescued over the years. Just listen, you’ll find us. We like driving around in our Illinois made Jeep Cherokee, enjoying a good meal at a local diner, and visiting family and friends. I also enjoy cycling the back roads of Woodford County; it’s almost a spiritual thing for me, watching the corn and beans grow from week to week.
Helping government change - I’ve been working with state and local governments for more than 20 years, helping them plan and lead through times of change that involve new technology systems, mergers, and reorganizations. During that time, I’ve learned some things about government operations that I believe would be helpful to Woodford County. I feel it is my responsibility to serve by sharing what I’ve learned to help others.
Active military service - I spent four years on active duty and four years in the reserves during the 1980s and early 1990s. I was a communications officer for the 1st Infantry Division (M) at Ft Riley, KS. My job was to install phone service in the woods so the colonels and generals could talk to each other tactically and securely. During this time, I learned about leadership, teamwork as well as purchasing and technology management.
Academics - I’ve studied organizations going through change, which led me to pursue my PhD in organization change. I’ve been teaching organizational behavior and change leadership to undergrad and graduate students for more than 15 years including Eureka College in the Organizational Leadership program.
My Story
I’m a Proud american and a proud Democrat
I’m a proud Woodford County American because I want to serve everyone!
I’m a proud Democrat because I believe once we know each other, we see each other as neighbors rather than outsiders.
I’m a proud Democrat because I believe in service and serving my neighbors by engaging with them, actively listening to them and advocating for them.
I’m a proud Democrat because I believe in government asking for input from residents rather than assuming their needs. Fresh voices spark engagement and innovation as well as an increase in ownership of the future.
I’m a proud Democrat because I believe hard working families like union workers, first responders, and farmers are the backbone and character of this County. Let’s support them with opportunities, resources, and the ability to raise a thriving family.
I’m a proud Democrat because I believe in the notion that we “leave the campsite better than when we found it”, meaning we strive to create a better world for the next generate of Woodford County residents.
My Call to You
I call on all Woodford County Democrats and residents who feel like they have not had a voice in this County to join together to engage with each other and make a difference in your life and the lives of your friends and neighbors, for the better, for the future, for all.