October 2015
About
Department/School/Division:University Marketing and Communication
Campus: Water Tower Campus
Years at Loyola: 4
What is your favorite thing about working at Loyola?
Staff recognition is pretty high on this list. We all have those moments, days, weeks where it's hard to see above the metaphorical pile of work that keeps stacking up on one's desk. Knowing that others value the work I do is a tremendous motivator to come in to work each day and contribute to a valuable mission.
What is your most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee?
As an official copy editor at Loyola, it's my job to catch errors or inconsistencies in some high-visibility marketing pieces, like print materials and videos for Founders' Dinner and the Commencement program. I lead "Proofcamp" every spring--three full days when several of us do nothing but proof the Commencement program. I and my co-editors have caught a few big things and countless smaller things that, thankfully, never see the light of day.
What does Loyola's mission mean to you?
Generosity. I see few areas of the University that aren't touched or strengthened by generosity. Professors mentoring students beyond the classroom. Scholarship students telling their stories and helping us raise money for more scholarships. Staff going above and beyond the call of duty. Dedicated alumni and donors literally making possible much of what the University is able to do - all in the spirit of St. Ignatius's legacy represented by the two wolves and kettle in Loyola's shield.
What motivates you to succeed each and every day?
My wife and daughter. Writing feature stories for our alumni magazine and other pieces about standout alumni and donors, whom I connect with regularly. Watching the resilient, successful, inspiring Cubs team this year capture lightning in a bottle and remind us of the value of being part of something larger than oneself. The Cubs will rise again!
Tell us how you show your Rambler pride.
I married a Rambler, Melissa (hoping to score serious brownie points having now mentioned her twice!). It's hard to find a really good hat that fits well and looks good, one of which is my Loyola ballcap that I've worn quite a bit. But I have to say that when it comes to showing Rambler pride, no one can compete with Sister Jean!
Tell us something most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about you.
I was the No. 1 varsity tennis player in high school. Two of my grandparents made it to age 100. I once helped feed Stephen King…sort of. And creative writing has been a passion of mine since early childhood. I wrote my first novel in high school/college, and the second…stay tuned!
