Graduation Year: 2005, 2012, 2018
Major: Bachelor of Science in Social Studies Education, Master of Education in Educational Leadership, Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership in Curriculum Instruction and Assessment
Current Position: Nixa High School Principal
City and State: Nixa, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I have spent the past 20 years in secondary education serving students across multiple districts in Southwest Missouri. I received my Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Social Studies Education in 2005, and began a teaching career in the Dallas County R-1 school district. Following a three-year stint there, I began teaching social studies at Nixa High School in Nixa, Missouri. In 2012, I earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Evangel University. That fall I accepted my first administration position as an assistant principal at Hollister High School in Hollister, Missouri. In the fall of 2013 I returned to Nixa Public Schools where I served as assistant principal. I earned my Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology at Evangel University in August of 2018. Since 2019 I served as the Principal of Nixa High School. Nixa is a high performing district located in southwest Missouri. During my tenure as principal, we have been awarded a National Blue Ribbon and a Missouri Gold Star for academic excellence.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
I enjoyed my time at Evangel and I have many memories over my time spent there. My wife and I went through our masters and doctoral programs together. Celebrating those achievements together as a family will always be one of my favorite memories. In my undergrad, I will always remember Evangel as the place that my faith in God grew and became my own. As a kid, my family attended church and I was saved at an early age. However, there was a day in chapel when I realized that my faith and understanding was really based on my parents. From that day forward, my relationship with Jesus began to become my own. The development of my relationship with God and deciding this would be the foundation for my life is probably the sweetest memory from Evangel. This was done through conversations with so many people over my time there. I will forever be grateful for all of these people and the impact they had on my life.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
I transferred to Evangel my junior year and switched my major from accounting to secondary education. I had been praying for peace on this decision. My first education class with Dr. Spence helped solidify that I had made the correct decision. I felt that the professors within the Education Department began to confirm this as I progressed through my course work. Whether it was meeting in Dr. Greve’s office or discussions following Dr. Cargnel’s class, I always felt their wisdom was confirmation that I was exactly where I needed to be.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
The Education Department at Evangel helped immensely in my preparation to become and effective educator. Whether it was my bachelors or graduate work, it was relevant to the things that I have experienced in my professional life. I also believe that Evangel helped give me the tools to integrate my faith with my work in the public sector.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
I believe it’s essential to be open-minded, ready to explore different roles and adapt to new challenges. Embrace continuous learning by staying updated with industry trends and seeking knowledge through workshops, courses, and certifications. Finding a mentor can provide valuable guidance, open up networking opportunities, and offer constructive feedback to help refine your skills. Maintain a positive attitude, approach your work with enthusiasm, and build a support system to stay motivated. Lastly, cultivate resilience by persevering through setbacks, managing stress effectively, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This approach will equip you to navigate the workforce successfully.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I am fortunate that in my current position I do get to hire. The Evangel grads that we have been able to hire have become some of our best. I look for people who work hard, initiators, and are willing to take feedback and grow from it.