What are you most excited about in your new role at The EdVenture Group?
C: Put simply, I am most excited to contribute to the organization’s work serving students, families, and schools in Appalachia. I am passionate about cultivating positive relationships and opportunities with and for learners, which will be at the core of my work with the EdVenture Group. I am also excited to work with such a wonderful team!
How will your prior experience contribute to your new role at EdV?
C: I am fortunate to have worn many hats throughout my career, which has spanned postsecondary institutions, state agencies, and nonprofits. Always focused on student success and career/workforce development, I have experience “in the trenches” of program implementation; however, I have also spent considerable time in higher level strategic planning and program oversight. I am hopeful that this diversity of experience can contribute to meaningful programming and leadership now and into the future.
What is a quote or saying that resonates with you as it relates to your views on the importance of education?
C: Pick any quote from John Wooden, but I’m particularly fond of this one:
“Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”
Admittedly, I was not always the student who saw the value in “failure”, though it is now a concept with which I am much more comfortable. There is so much learning that can happen in those moments, but learners often need help navigating how to move forward productively – and I would be thrilled to serve in that way for anyone!
What’s a fun fact about you?
C: I have lived and worked in 7 different states throughout my adult life, but WV will always be home – my family has been in this part of Appalachia since before West Virginia even received statehood!
What can someone find you doing outside of work hours for fun?
C: Outside of work, you will likely find me in my other role – father of four! Our family likes to explore parks, search for the best donuts, and generally just add chaos wherever we go. I also like to camp, watch sporting events, or rewatch favorite TV series with my wife, Kaitlin.