Where did you receive your degrees from?  

Chemistry:  B.S. from Andrews University, Ph.D. from Purdue University, Business: B.B.A. from Andrews University, M.B.A. from The University of Chicago, Music:  B.A. in progress from Eastern Illinois University
 

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

Bach Cantata “Lobe den Herren” BWV 137 performed by the Netherlands Bach Society , The Bach prelude in F major performed by Marie-Claire Alain , “We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace” a traditional Spiritual performed by the Dale Warland Singers, The Andante cantabile movement from Schuman’s Piano Quartet in Eb Major, Mozart’s setting of Laudate Dominum
 

Where is your favorite place on campus?  

The north entrance of Booth Library.
 

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

If I publicize it, it might become too crowded.
 

Who is someone you admire in your field and why? 

I admire the chemist Stephen Lippard of MIT for his research that clarified the way some antitumor drugs work. 

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

I thought–and still think–that chemistry is in the middle of everything. That’s what makes it interesting.
 

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

I presently hold two positions; officially 50% of each occupies my time. I am a faculty member; teaching chemistry is my primary job. I am also the director of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs.
 

What are the most rewarding aspects of your current position?  

The rewarding part of teaching is that as I work with students, friendships develop and continue after they graduate. The most rewarding part of administration is contributing to the success of other faculty members. 

What are the most challenging aspects of your position?  

In teaching, I am always trying to find better ways to motivate students to make the best possible use of their abilities. In administration, the challenge is looking for money to support research and creative activity here at EIU.
 

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

Study. The. Material. This will take time. Don’t assume that things will go well if you simply “look over my notes.” Write your own prediction of the questions that will be on the next quiz or exam. Learn to survive for a few hours at a time without checking Instagram, Snapchat or FB.Be watching to see which students get good grades. Become friends with them. Some of their habits will make you better, and you will all have a good time.

What is your number one goal for your students?  

I once heard education defined as “what you are left with after you have forgotten what you learned.” My goal is for students is that they will be left with the ability to learn and the attitude that learning is rewarding. 

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