I have the incredible honor of taking on the gavel as President of the Iowa ACAC. This feels like a full circle moment. I started my career as a student intern in 2014 at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, attending the MIDWest conference, and now here I am, back in this space, taking on this role. It is humbling in the best way. 

This past year as President Elect, I learned so much from Craig, Sheryl, Gail, and so many others in this association. Thank you for your leadership, your guidance, and probably for answering more of my questions than you ever expected to.

When I first started my career at Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, I worked a Wisconsin territory, so naturally I joined WACAC instead of MNACAC. For a while, I honestly felt a little out of place, like I was still trying to figure out where I belonged in this profession.

Then I came to Buena Vista University in 2019, and everything changed. As I slowly became more involved, Tom Paulson called and asked me to serve as the Iowa Delegate. Ironically, NACAC removed the position during my very first year in it. That feels like a pretty accurate introduction to leadership in admissions these days.

One of the greatest parts of this journey has been the relationships built along the way. Drew Shradel and I have had the opportunity to present together on building a long-term career in this profession, which is slightly ironic considering we both became Directors right before a global pandemic. Nothing says “welcome to leadership” quite like rewriting your visit strategy every three days and learning words like “pivot” and “unmute” against your will. But truly, it has been an honor to grow alongside Drew, learn from one another, and continue encouraging others to see this profession not just as a job, but as a meaningful career dedicated to helping students find their place.

But what mattered most was this association welcomed me with open arms. From serving as Co-Chair of Professional Development, to Chairing College Day and Night, I had the chance to learn from incredible leaders like Emily, Marissa, Tina, Jess, and many others who taught me not just how to lead, but how to serve. Thank you for believing in me and helping me grow.

I’m also incredibly excited to continue working alongside Craig as our Past President and Colleen as our new President Elect. One of the greatest strengths of this association is that leadership is never just one person holding a gavel. It is people supporting one another, sharing ideas, stepping up when needed, and occasionally surviving planning, or chaotic messages together. I know this year will be stronger because of the team we have around us.

As I take on the gavel today, I know these are unprecedented times in higher education. But I also know our work has never been more important. Every day, we help students and families navigate life-changing decisions. We create access, build connections, and remind students there is a place for them. That matters.

My hope this year is simple: that we continue to grow this association, encourage even greater involvement, and make sure people are proud to be part of Iowa ACAC. I want others to feel the same sense of belonging this organization gave me.

And finally, my wife and I were incredibly honored to have our logo selected as part of the rebrand. We wanted it to reflect the full story of Iowa, not just what people assume Iowa is, but the community, opportunity, innovation, and heart that make this state special.

Thank you all for your trust, your support, and your friendship. Here’s to a wonderful year together.