I grew up in, and have lived most of my life, in Crawfordsville. I am married, with five children, and five grandchildren. I hold both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Butler University.

I am a teacher because I suppose it is in my blood! My parents were both teachers, both of my siblings are involved in higher education, and, my oldest daughter is an educator. I don't know that I ever seriously considered anything OTHER than teaching!

I believe that scientific literacy is hugely important in making informed decisions about the future of our society, our planet, and our very survival as a species. I want to impart that passion, and belief, to my students. My favorite memory as a teacher or student teacher was when I was named the recipient of the James H. Otto Award through the Butler University College of Education, awarded annually for excellence in Science student teaching.

I am an avid angler. I love to read, and I enjoy solving all sorts of word puzzles (in particular, British-style cryptic crosswords). I am obsessed with Australian Rules football, and I barrack (cheer) for the world's oldest football club, the Melbourne Demons (founded in 1858). I officiate four (4) different sports: soccer, wrestling, softball, and boys lacrosse. I have called a total of eight (8) State Finals here in Indiana, and, in 2010, was selected to travel to Manchester, England, to help referee the World Lacrosse Championship. I LOVE Arni's Pizza! I have read "To Kill a Mockingbird" probably a dozen times, and it still has the same emotional impact as it did when I first read it as a Freshman in high school. "A Man for All Seasons" is my favourite film; I admire the fact that Sir Thomas More was willing to face certain death rather than compromise his beliefs.