Nearly 14 years ago, my wife, Merissa, and I chose to move to Edgemont for the easy commute and the great schools. It was clear then and remains so today that families moved to Edgemont to raise their kids until those kids went off on their own with many staying engaged community members beyond those years. That instills a level of commitment to friendships, institutions, and sense of community that I cherish. I am very grateful for this opportunity to give back to Edgemont.
When we moved here my two youngest kids were not even born. They are now in third and sixth grade at Seely Place. Between Greenville Church Nursery School and Seely, their entire educational experience to date has taken place in just a few acres down the street from our house. I love how we have a small town feel in the middle of our enormous metropolitan area. My oldest daughter is a proud EHS Class of 2023 graduate having transferred in her sophomore year.
A few months ago, I was asked if I would be interested in throwing my name in the hat for the school board. With a sense of curiosity, I explored what was required to be a productive school board member – I spoke with past and current board members, members of the Edgemont UFSD administration and faculty along with our neighbors. Most importantly, I spoke with my wife who fully supported my spending multiple hours each week on this Board work. When I commit to doing something I give it my all, so it was important that I had a good understanding of the role along with my family’s support.
Since my days as an undergraduate at Wharton I knew I would go into finance. For nearly 25 years I have been a professional investor across many industries and countries. Looking back at what brought me professional success, there are several skills that I developed as a portfolio manager that will be vital as a potential member of the school board:
- I am rigorously analytical with a focus on hard data and benchmarking. Decisions regarding the education and development of our children are rightfully emotional so it is crucial to focus on facts and desired outcomes when making difficult decisions.
- I strongly believe that the “process” is critical in good decision making. Encouraging dissenting views, being as transparent as possible, setting milestones, and regular communication with all stakeholders are hallmarks of a good process.
- I think beyond first order effects. A short-term focus can result in long-term costs, and many well- intentioned actions can have material adverse consequences if not fully thought through.
- I have always worked in a team environment (including as a director of a public company) where collaboration was required as part of the process. I believe this results in better outcomes.
Although I am not a professional educator, I am a quick study who has profitably learned about countless companies in industries across the globe and will bring that skillset to bear. I understand what is required to be a positive member of the Edgemont school board and commit to working hard and acting with integrity on behalf of all stakeholders in Edgemont. There is no more precious asset than our children, and I am honored to have received the recommendation of the SBNC. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to pursing the work.