Graduation Year: 1999
Major: Secondary Education/History
Current Position: Middle School Health Teacher and Basketball Coach
City and State: Springfield, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I am finishing my 24th year teaching at Reed Academy and my 27th year coaching basketball at Reed. I started coaching at Reed in 1997 during my 2nd semester at EU. After I graduated, I was offered a 6th grade social studies position, and started teaching at Reed in 2000. I taught social studies for nine years, then transitioned to health and have been a health teacher for 15 years now. There is no doubt God called me to Reed and has kept me at Reed for all of these years.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
Living in the dorms, being with my friends all the time and participating in intramurals. Of course, meeting my wife is the top memory though!
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
I call EU the closest place to Heaven on Earth. The atmosphere is amazing, being around other Christians, having Christian teachers, and attending chapel. I already knew I was called to be a coach/teacher, but when I first visited EU, I knew it was the place that I would complete my degree. I am so excited that my two girls are currently attending Evangel and get to experience EU themselves.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
It is just a great place to grow in your relationship with God, as you prepare for the “real world.” EU helps you focus on what really matters in life. It is not about making the most money, but this life is about loving the most people!
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Lock in on your work, have fun, enjoy every second at EU! Put God first in all your decisions, and he will lead you in his path. His plan is always the best!
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
Character first! Being a team player, willing to give 100% each day and be an encouragement to those you work with.