BIO

“I grew up in neighboring Union County and attended a very small high school. After graduating, I went to trade school and then worked as an industrial maintenance technician for most of my twenties. During this time, I learned how to weld and fabricate, and spent several years as a welder. After getting married in 2011, my wife (Arlissa) convinced me to accompany her on a study abroad to France. This was a life-changing experience and broadened my horizons in many ways. When we returned to the US, we purchased a business - a trophy and awards shop. Then, at the age of 30, I decided to go back to college. I had always loved reading, so I came to Ole Miss in pursuit of an English degree, which I achieved in 2016. I grew to love the University, and after a career path that swerved in wild directions (entrepreneur / welding / teaching / landscaping / building maintenance), I am back at Ole Miss, working in the Landscape Services department and pursuing a Philosophy degree. I consider myself a “maker” and always have several projects in various states of chaos. My hobbies include woodworking, welding, metal detecting, and hiking.”