Major: Speech and Theatre
Graduation Year: 1997
What did you do post-graduation and what are you doing currently?
While in college, I started a Quad Cities-based interactive, whodunit company called It's A Mystery. We began to write our own material right after graduation and have continued to create our own shows for 19 consecutive years. Along the way, I've held several sales jobs that have me well-networked in the community. I have sold business technology including phone systems, security cameras, and audio/visual hardware for the last 10 years.
How are you using your degree?
My theatre experience is helpful in my daily life. I believe the professors helped to stress excellent core values that are transferable to many careers: respect for the project and the process and collaborating with others to create a positive outcome. It's true that theatre is the window to the human experience, to help us see and understand life's moments. In better understanding those times, it's often easier to help create or shape meaningful moments along the way. I have never used my degree to get a job, but my skills have earned me rewards beyond what I ever thought possible.
What was your favorite memory from Ambrose?
How much the performances mattered to me at the time. Giving 100% every night to try to be better than the night before. Working with Mike Kennedy in the late-1980s on the mainstage was incredible. Those who were there at the time know that it was occasionally intense, but the experience made us all better actors, technicians, and people.
What do you miss most about the department?
I treasure the memories of the people and the plays produced over the years. It was amazingly rewarding to share those experiences with some very talented individuals all around. I felt lucky at the time to recognize how special St. Ambrose is. Having had the privilege to return for two of the alumni shows helped to rekindle the appreciation for the department.
What inspires you today?
Moments, great or small, with impact and meaning. For me, most of that comes through work with others in a community or volunteer setting. Working to set goals and vision for Bettendorf is awesome, but so is working with a group of community leaders in the Chamber of Commerce. Still, my first love is theatre and, over the years, I've learned there is not a whole lot I won't do for a laugh. I'm currently using my improvisation and speaking skills to host a fundraising effort for the Quad Cities Chamber. A lot of people take themselves way too seriously, so being able to help to lighten it a bit is great!
What was your biggest post-SAU surprise?
Being elected as Alderman in Bettendorf, Iowa, in 2009. I've served 6 years now and appreciate the opportunity to give back to my community. Somewhere along the way, the lightbulb went on and I began to understand: successful people really do give more than they take, value other people, and as my Rotary Club reminds us, value "Service Above Self."
Any advice for current students?
I really believe that college is the time to smell the roses. Take a good look around and then grab the opportunities that are present all around campus and in the Quad Cities Community. Build relationships and friendships that will last a lifetime (especially with rich students who may give you a job someday).
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