Q: Year graduated from North Wilkes:

A: 1995

 

Q: List any education/degrees beyond high school:

A: BA-UNC Chapel Hill, MBA from UNCG, Certified Financial Planner from College for Financial Planning/CFP Board

 

Q: List Professional/Career Experience and why you chose your career path:

A: When I graduated from college, I knew I wanted a career helping people but was also very analytical. I first work for
an insurance company and for four years helped people who had experienced property damage usually from fire or water
or wind. While a learned a lot and was able to help people in that role, what I realized was proper planning was key to
really be able to help people. Meanwhile I had of gotten an MBA and really liked the finance classes that I was taking.
This led me to a career in financial planning. Today, I help people prepare for big goals such as retirement or college for
their children.

 

Q: If you could go back and give yourself advice as a high school student, what advice would you give and why. What
advice would you give to high school students today?

A: When I was a student, I really felt like you either had talent or you didn’t, or you had the intelligence necessary or you
didn’t. What I’ve learned later is the key is to find something that interests you, that you’re really passionate about and
continue learning in that field. Persistence is really the key rather than being born with any particular gift.

 

Q: How has your NWHS education and experiences positively impacted your life?

A: I had several special teachers in my life when I was a student at North Wilkes. I feel like they really encouraged me to
pursue my dreams and believed in me. They were key and really encouraging me to reach for big goals.

 

Q: Are there any other achievements and honors received since graduation you would like to share?

A: Today I am a partner in a locally owned financial planning firm based out of Winston Salem called Blue Rock Wealth
Management. There I am able to work with a wonderful group of people and serve a diverse body of clients. I’m grateful
for this opportunity to serve others, especially in my local community.