I was born and raised in the state of Wisconsin, though by no means do I consider myself a Midwesterner. In my heart, mind, and soul, I’m a Left-Coaster; I love the mountains, ocean, desert, and wide-open spaces. I am also quite attracted to the culture out here, which includes progressive politics as well as the philosophy of rugged individualism — predominant in frontier America — that tends to live on.
Education has probably been the foremost theme of my life ... though whatever knowledge and wisdom I may possess come not only from the classroom but a considerable number of other, life-altering, experiential, personal-growth opportunities. Those who know me well would likely report that health, wellness and personal development are high on my list of values. I also love to travel, particularly here in the American West: California, New Mexico and Montana are favorite places, for example. When I’m not in Oregon, that is.
Professionally, I have worked as a chemist; a photographer; a small business owner; a counselor & therapist; and college administrator. On occasion, I have done some consulting and expert witness testimony work, generally for lawsuits related to college-student alcohol use and/or fraternity hazing.
I walk regularly for my physical and mental health (me and the music and/or podcasts on my iPhone), and I’m an insatiable reader and a fairly prolific photographer. “They” say I am: intellectual, passionate, creative, balanced, intense, authentic, serious, intuitive, open-hearted, liberal, philosophical, academic, assertive, introverted, colorful, contemplative and compassionate.
If you’re interested in knowing even more (highly-personal details) about me, you can check out these two old blog posts…
