I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan; however, I spent most of my professional career in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

In terms of my formal education, I completed my undergraduate degree in Business Administration at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I hold a Doctorate Degree in Education, a Master of Arts (Educational Leadership) and a Master of Arts (Organizational Communication). I obtained all of my graduate degrees from Western Michigan University.

Professionally, I have years of experience in higher education at both public and private institutions. My experience ranges from faculty member to chief operating officer to president—my current role—at Oakland Community College, the Auburn Hills Campus. OCC is a four-campus public institution enrolling 25,000 students district-wide. This position requires that I lead the campus operations through management of its resources to achieve the college’s mission. While I spent a number of years working as a University Administrator, I believe my passion for higher education is truly fulfilled by the community college, and its mission.

I have two wonderful children, Nicole and Patrick. And, more importantly, I have three lovely grandchildren. All of my available extra time is spent loving and cherishing the time that I spend with them.

January 2010