Occupation: Vice President, Bank of Tennessee, Johnson City TN

ETSU degree: B.B.A., 1995 (Finance)

Books read recently: The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities by Lawrence C., Jr. Ross

Favorite activity when not at work: Working out, playing basketball, hanging out with friends.

Civic activities include: Lots of "hands-on" experience with the Optimist Club. The Optimists work with youth. I have had an opportunity to be involved with kids and help make a positive impact on their lives.

What was one of your favorite courses at ETSU? Principles of Economics, thanks to Dr. Daniel Russo's style of teaching.

What did you study that's proven to be more beneficial than you thought it would be? Accounting. I never imagined that I would actually use some of the things I learned in Principles I & II.

Why should students consider attending ETSU? ETSU is a great place to grow as a person. It’s large enough to offer various courses of study, yet small enough to not get "lost" in the crowd.

What advice would you give students just beginning their college careers? Get involved and enjoy the experience! College can be one of the best times of your life. It only lasts—or should last—4 to 5 years.

What have you learned from your work and life experience since graduating from ETSU? That education does pay. Employers are seeking people who have skills and can be trained. A college educations demonstrates a person's ability to learn, work with others and succeed. Learning and working with others never end. They continue on the job and in life.