Degree: Bachelor of Arts - Radio/Television/Film ('93)
Note: This degree is now Electronic Media & Broadcasting
What are you up to now?
I am a Business Analyst with Humana, author and photographer. I recently published a book entitled The Murphy-Cam Project. It is a “year in the life” photographic essay created with my dog Murphy as we explore the many beautiful sights at sunrise on the river in Downtown Cincinnati. Through our journeys we encountered the homeless population first hand. I have partnered with Our Daily Bread, located in OTR which provides about 400 meals a day along with many other services to assist our fellow neighbors. All proceeds from book sales are going to support this effort. To date, we have raised $1500 to make a difference in our community, but I believe we can do much more.
How did NKU help you on your journey?
NKU gave me the opportunity to meet people that would shape the rest of my life. I met my wife of 27 years, and many other lifelong friends through the Greek system. Caring and dedicated professors worked with me, to continue my education, as I battled Leukemia. Participation in student government helped me develop organizational and diplomatic skills, while igniting a desire to serve my community.
I received a Bachelor’s degree in Radio Television and Film in 1993, and worked as an editor and producer for about seven years. I then transitioned to the business sector where I put my technical skills to work in sales and customer service at Delta Airlines, and as a Business Analyst for Humana. I continued to use my production skills to give back to the community as I design, build, maintain and train users on audio and video systems for Lakeside Presbyterian Church and Beechwood Marching Band.
What is some advice you would give to prospective/current students?
I celebrated my 50th birthday and 30 years cancer free by publishing my first book of photography. My advice would be to never give up on your dreams, treat people the way you would want to be treated and find that thing, or things, that you are passionate about and pursue them. Even if you have to work a job you are not crazy about so you can spend time doing those things. You will find life much more rewarding. I encourage you to pick up a musical instrument, try your hand at painting or sculpting, listen to genres of music outside your comfort zone and dance, like there’s no one in the room. Laugh often, love deeply, read everything you can get your hands on.
I will leave you with one of my favorite Kurt Vonnegut Quotes: The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven's sake.
