I grew up in a small town just 30 minutes west of Wichita called Cheney, Kansas. I would describe my hometown as a close-knit community where everyone supports one another. It’s the kind of place that fosters strong relationships and a sense of belonging, making it a wonderful environment to grow up in and an ideal place to raise a family.
When I think about who influenced me the most growing up, the answer is without a doubt my mom. She is one of the hardest-working and most determined people I know, always setting an example through her actions and attitude. Whether she was facing challenges at work or managing responsibilities at home, she did everything with strength and perseverance. Her leadership, compassion, and ability to stay focused inspired me daily, and she continues to be someone I deeply admire. I strive each day to carry myself with the same strength, determination, and grace that she does.
One of the greatest lessons I learned from my childhood is to always have confidence in yourself. Growing up, I realized that self-belief is the foundation for everything you want to achieve. There were times when I doubted myself or felt like I wasn’t good enough, but I noticed that whenever I pushed past those doubts and trusted in my abilities, things began to fall into place. Confidence not only helped me face challenges more boldly, but it also changed how others saw me. When you believe in yourself, the world begins to believe in you too. People respond to the energy you give off, and confidence naturally draws respect and opportunities. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my life, reminding me that everything starts from within.
As for where I went to college, I attended Mid-America Christian University in Oklahoma City, where I earned my degree in Business Administration. During my time in college, I was also involved in athletics—I played college basketball for all four years of my undergraduate experience. I spent my first two years at Emporia State University, where I had the opportunity to develop my skills, compete at a high level, and build strong relationships with my teammates and coaches. After my time at Emporia State, I transferred to Mid-America Christian University (MACU) for my final two years. At MACU, I continued to grow as both an athlete and a student, contributing to the team while also focusing on completing my degree. Playing college basketball was a rewarding experience that taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance through lessons that continue to impact my life today.