What was life like before Clarke?
I came to Clarke from the University of Minnesota, where I was finishing up grad school and working as an Ombudsman.
Why Clarke?
One reason I became interested in Clarke was the rich history and the heritage of Clarke and the BVMs. I did a lot of research on the BVMs, their traditions and their philosophies. I felt that I could definitely fit in and work at a place like Clarke. Also, I am a Midwesterner at heart and Dubuque would be the farthest south I've ever lived.
What makes Clarke different?
I love how friendly and close the community is at Clarke. Everyone is on a first name basis - students, staff and faculty. As soon as you walk onto campus, you feel welcomed and supported.
How will you impact Clarke?
As an advisor to a couple of student groups, I want to ensure that students are finding ways to engage in not only the campus community, but also the Dubuque community.
What hobbies do you have outside of work?
I really like fish and the water. Most of my undergraduate experience was spent centered around those things. I went to college on the beach at the University of New England for a degree in Aquaculture & Aquarium Science. I spent a summer interning at the New England Aquarium, caring for anacondas, piranhas, electric eels and sting rays. I took a class on Reef ecology and traveled to Tobago to participate in studies on the health and sustainability efforts of coral reefs. It was awesome!