Tell us about your military service. What did you do? Where did you serve? What do you value the most about your military service?
I commissioned from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2020 as a Transportation Officer, where I studied Business Management and served as captain of the Army Judo team. I was stationed in Vilseck, Germany, serving as a Fuel and Water Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer (XO), and Brigade Maintenance Control Officer across high-tempo multinational operations.
While my active-duty service was cut short due to a medically non-retainable diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, the values instilled during my time in uniform continue to define my career and community leadership: a deep commitment to mentorship, empowering emerging leaders, and dedicated service to others.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
I am all in. Mentorship is foundational to both personal and professional growth. It is something I leaned into as a young Lieutenant and a commitment I continue to prioritize. Giving back through intentional mentorship is one of my passions. I am currently involved in two mentorship programs: Upper Canyon Outreach 鈥淕ot Your 6,鈥� where I mentor fellow military veterans through equine therapy and host a monthly call, and The Britt Foundation, where I mentor and lead high school students through wilderness leadership and ice-climbing expeditions.
As a role model, I lead with trust, vulnerability, and genuine care. Meaningful growth requires a level of psychological safety and the willingness to be available and real about challenges, setbacks, and opportunities. At Vanderbilt, my goal is to foster a positive experience for others who truly seek mentorship and guidance, providing an environment where people are supported to take risks, push past limits, and elevate one another.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
At Vanderbilt, my studies will focus on business, finance, and entrepreneurship. I will use new knowledge and a growing network to propel my career forward as a professional and myself forward as an individual. I want to explore entrepreneurship through acquisition and medium- to small-sized energy development and decommissioning companies. Leadership, networking, and strategic risk-taking are essential in nearly all walks of life. I want to use my knowledge and network to help young adults navigate their early career moves, and fellow veterans transition into the civilian world.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
I would tell other veterans that this program鈥檚 mission and network should be replicated. It is exciting to find a program that is dedicated to the same efforts I am extremely passionate about. I am incredibly grateful to be a Bass Scholar and immersed in a community that is creative and committed to giving back. I know many other veterans who would be thrilled to participate in a program like this.