Please introduce yourself.
I grew up in Idaho State, USA. When I was 19, I moved to Korea for two years of missionary service. I earned a BS in Zoology and Masters of Public Administration from Idaho State University and a PhD in Political Science from Texas A&M University. I have been a faculty member at Boise State University since 2005 where I taught public policy and public administration. My wife Marisa and I have been married for 24 years. We have 4 children: Spencer (20), Audrey (16), Emmett (13), and Ava (11). We love to camp and spend time in the mountains.
When did your connection with the University of Utah Asia Campus first start?
My colleague Todd Kent (former CEO) invited me to be a visiting faculty member in the summer of 2018, so I spent five weeks here then. I loved the campus and the people working here, so when the position became open, I jumped at the chance to apply.
Do you have new plans to build better relationships with domestic and overseas cooperative organizations such as The University of Utah Salt Lake Campus, IGC and IFEZ?
I am an optimist. I feel like we can build many great relationships over the next few years. The previous leadership set the foundation, and now with some hard work and good communication, I feel like we can build strong relationships across IGC and IFEZ. I think we can build a plan for internships and other experiential learning opportunities, and find ways that UAC can be more a part of the community.
What unique strengths and roles do you think the Campus has and can play, and how should it prepare?
I think our strengths lie in our students and faculty. I hope to take those strengths and build on them. Our students should have research and experiential learning opportunities, and our faculty should have the chance to hone their skills and become the type of researchers and teachers they want to become. I think we can work on a plan to get the most out of our faculty and students.
How are you going to prepare for the post-COVID-19 era as a leader and administrative expert?
One of the things I would like to do is work closely with the faculty and staff, health care leaders, and others in the community to create a learning environment where all feel welcome and comfortable. Education will not be the same as it was before COVID19, so we have to be adaptable, but at the same time stay close to the mission of the University.
Lastly, please say a word to those who care about The University of Utah Asia Campus.
I am excited to get started and work with all of you. Education is such a vital part of our lives, and the educational experience you will receive at University of Utah Asia Campus will be great! I look forward to getting to know the students, faculty, staff, and community, and building a great experience for all.
