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 served 20 years in the U.S. Army as an Infantryman before retiring. One of my final assignments was serving as a Rifle Company First Sergeant with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Throughout my military career, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a Noncommissioned Officer was the opportunity to mentor and develop young Soldiers and leaders. Watching them grow personally and professionally, overcome challenges, and progress throughout their military careers was something I took tremendous pride in and remains one of the most meaningful parts of my service.
What are your thoughts on mentoring other students while at Vanderbilt? As a role model, what values do you want to share?
As a Bass Military Scholar, I believe I have a responsibility to continue leading and mentoring others throughout my time at Vanderbilt. I hope to share my experiences in the Army while fostering open dialogue about our nation鈥檚 service members, their commitment to duty, and the sacrifices they and their families make every day.
I believe the values instilled in me throughout my military service, particularly duty, integrity, and personal courage, extend far beyond the military. These principles are equally valuable within the halls of Owen and can serve as a foundation for ethical leadership, accountability, and meaningful contributions in the business world.
While at Vanderbilt, what will be the focus of your studies and how do you plan to use this knowledge in your future career?
I plan to concentrate my studies in Finance and Strategy, building upon the leadership experience and skills I developed throughout my military career leading Soldiers in demanding environments. My goal is to combine that experience with the financial acumen and strategic management expertise gained at Owen to lead high-performing teams and drive meaningful business results. I am particularly interested in identifying innovative ways to create sustainable profitability while maintaining a strong commitment to ethical leadership and strategic decision making.
What would you tell other veterans about the Bass Military Scholars Program?
I would tell fellow veterans that the Bass Military Scholars Program is a truly unique opportunity. It allows you to continue serving in a new capacity by supporting your fellow students, mentoring others, and making a meaningful impact within the Vanderbilt community. For me, the most rewarding aspect of the program extends far beyond the financial support. It is the mentorship provided by Bass alumni, the relationships built with fellow scholars, and the strong network that continues long after graduation. The program offers a sense of camaraderie and purpose that many veterans value from their time in service, while providing opportunities to grow personally and professionally as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.