Editor’s Note: This is part of a series introducing various members of the campus community to Eastern for a better understanding of those who maintain the operations of the university.

Where did you receive your degrees from?

BS and MS in Microbiology from Colorado State University; Ph.D. from University of Colorado, Postdoctoral Training at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

If we saw your music playlist, what would the top five songs be?

If we saw your music playlist, what would the top five songs be? Three Day Sucker by Buddy Rich Big Band, Meditation by Booker T and the MGs, The Way by Fastball, What’d I Say by Herbie Mann, Music of the Night by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

The Secret Garden.

What is a place in Charleston you think everyone should know about?

The Whiteside Garden, a mile east of town.

Who is someone you admire in your field and why?

Harold Weintraub- (now deceased) a brilliant scientist and National Academy member who was a true polymath but with little pretention.

Why did you go into the field you’re in?

Being exposed to the wonders of microbiology in a community college class.

What positions have you held during your career in higher education?

Assistant Professor at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Professor and Chair of Biological Sciences at EIU.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your current position?

Working with students (undergraduate and graduate) as they navigate their degrees and prepare for next steps in their careers.

What are the most challenging aspects of your position?

Managing the details of a large department without losing the focus of the reason we are all here- to provide a first-class education. 

What advice would you give to students in your department for their college careers?

What advice would you give to students in your department for their college careers? To devote this time of their lives to their education so that they can open doors and opportunities that will provide them with both a fulfilling career and full life. 

What is your number one goal for your students?

What is your number one goal for your students? That they will be both successful professionals as well as community-minded citizens, looking for ways to support and encourage those around them as they excel in their chosen field.

The News Staff can be reached at 581-2812 or at dennewsdesk@gmail.com.