Board of Directors Member Elect Applicants

Resume

Application Responses

 

1.  The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)

 

I hope to contribute to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board by bringing clear, objective thinking and a steady decision‑making approach developed through nearly two decades in financial regulation and risk leadership. My career began as a federal bank examiner, where I regularly worked with boards and senior leadership navigating complex issues. Those experiences reinforced the idea that high‑performing boards thrive when members ask thoughtful questions, analyze issues from multiple perspectives, and keep the long‑term mission at the center of decisions.

A perspective I believe would add meaningful value to the PLP Board is my expertise in risk management. Effective boards do more than approve policies. They anticipate emerging risks, evaluate trade‑offs, and ensure decisions strengthen the institution across a range of possible futures. As a risk manager, I’ve been trained to think dynamically, consider second‑ and third‑order effects, and help organizations remain resilient even as circumstances change. This mindset is particularly important for schools, where academic excellence, financial sustainability, safety, and community expectations must all be balanced responsibly.

In my current role, much of my work involves simplifying complex information, balancing competing priorities, and providing decision‑ready insights for executives and committees. These skills translate directly to a board environment where strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance require clarity, discipline, and balanced judgment.

Most importantly, I believe a strong board helps an already excellent school remain excellent. Excellence is not automatic; it requires reflection, adaptation, and decisions rooted in what best serves students and the long‑term health of the institution. I hope to contribute by bringing a calm, analytical mindset, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to ensuring PLP continues to thrive academically, culturally, and financially.

 

2.  The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)
 

Among the areas listed, my most impactful contribution to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board would come from my experience in financial and business management, strengthened by a specialized background in risk management. For most of my career, I have served as the subject‑matter expert that senior leadership teams and boards rely on to evaluate financial soundness, assess emerging risks, and provide clear recommendations that support long‑term organizational stability.

As a federal bank examiner, I evaluated the financial condition, governance practices, and strategic decision‑making of highly regulated institutions. Today, as a senior leader in model, enterprise , and AI risk management, I am responsible for analyzing complex financial and operational information, identifying where vulnerabilities may exist, and ensuring executives and board‑level committees receive decision‑ready insights. This includes reviewing and challenging budgets, capital plans, stress tests, and performance metrics.

Risk management is, at its core, forward‑looking. It requires anticipating how conditions may evolve, assessing multiple scenarios, and balancing growth with resilience. That perspective is especially valuable for a charter school board, where financial decisions directly affect academic programming, staffing, facilities planning, and long‑term community expectations. My work routinely involves distilling uncertainty into clear, objective guidance, something that helps boards make informed, mission‑aligned choices even when conditions change.

I believe this combination of financial literacy, analytical discipline, and risk awareness would enable me to add structure, clarity, and long‑range thinking to PLP’s governance work. More importantly, it would support the Board’s responsibility to safeguard Pine Lake Prep’s financial strength so the school can continue fulfilling its mission of providing rigorous academics and developing well‑rounded students who contribute positively to their community.

 

3. Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)
 

I serve as Treasurer on my neighborhood HOA Board, where I recently led a community initiative to expand access to residential solar while protecting property values. Homeowners wanted the ability to place panels for optimal production reducing overall cost, but our covenants and architectural guidelines created uncertainty.

I led the project from end to end:

Governance & Legal Review: I analyzed our HOA covenants and architectural standards, reviewed relevant North Carolina statutes and case law affecting HOAs and rooftop solar, and consulted pro bono counsel through my professional network to confirm legal pathways and risk considerations.

Policy Design & Drafting: I authored a covenant addendum that balanced aesthetics and property protections with requirements, including preferred roof planes and difference in  production requirements. I created an architectural‑review process to lower friction and cost.

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication: I distilled the proposal into plain‑language FAQs, hosted open forums for Q&A, and incorporated resident feedback into the final draft. I then coordinated the board approval process and community vote, ensuring transparent, rules‑based governance.

The measure passed with strong support. The result: homeowners now have a clear, cost‑effective path to install solar, the HOA has a consistent enforcement framework, and the community benefits from long‑term energy resilience without compromising neighborhood standards.

This experience reflects how I approach board service: define the objective, understand the governing and legal context, quantify risks and trade‑offs, communicate transparently, and deliver a durable policy outcome. It also aligns with PLP’s commitment to service, community, and mission‑aligned solutions that are fiscally responsible, legally sound, and broadly beneficial.

Outside of work, I have always believed in service and have been an active volunteer in my community as a board member, tutor, youth coach, and Sunday school teacher to name a few. These roles have reinforced my belief that leadership is about contributing to something larger than yourself and helping others succeed.

 

4.        The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)
 

Of PLP’s core values, Empathy resonates most deeply with me. Throughout my career, and especially as a parent, I’ve learned that empathy requires more than awareness of someone’s emotions. It requires slowing down, listening, and genuinely trying to understand someone else’s experience, even when it differs from your own.

Professionally, empathy shapes how I lead and collaborate. My work often involves challenging conversations with business owners, auditors, or executives under pressure. Leading with empathy builds trust and helps create an environment where people are willing to have the debate, which ultimately leads to better decisions and better outcomes.

On a personal level, I see the power of empathy every day through my oldest daughter. She instinctively feels and responds to the emotions of others, whether celebrating a win or comforting her sister after a tough moment. Her sincerity has strengthened my own commitment to leading with empathy.

I also witnessed empathy in action at PLP this year. My youngest daughter struggled with the bus for a stretch of time. When an older student heard about it, he waited for her the next morning and sat with her the entire week. That simple act completely changed her experience; she now gets on the bus with excitement. His empathy made a tangible difference in her daily life and in mine as well.

Seeing empathy elevated as a core value within PLP is inspiring. It reflects a culture that prioritizes connection, emotional intelligence, and kindness, values I strive to model in both my personal and professional life.
 

 

5.  We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

 

An additional contribution I would bring is helping strengthen PLP’s connection to both the North Carolina business community and the broader student‑development ecosystem. The company I work for is actively engaged across the state, and I have seen how exposure to real‑world professional environments can expand a student’s sense of what is possible. I would welcome the opportunity to help create pathways for PLP students to visit our Wilmington campus, an innovative, collaborative environment, and learn about careers in finance, analytics, technology, and risk management. My goal is to help students see that world‑class opportunities exist here in North Carolina and that they are capable of thriving in them.

I would also bring experience from founding Theory Golf, a platform designed to provide advanced performance analytics to college golf programs, particularly those with limited budgets. I believe access to high‑quality tools should not depend on whether a student attends a major Division I powerhouse. Working directly with student‑athletes has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my work. Seeing how data, feedback, and individualized insights accelerate their improvement reminds me how powerful the right resources can be in helping young people reach their potential.

If selected, I would approach board service with humility, preparation, and a deep respect for the responsibility entrusted to members. I would be honored to serve and contribute to PLP’s continued excellence, supporting sound decisions today while helping create opportunities that shape students’ futures.

 

Resume

Application Responses 

 

1.  The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)

 

I’m interested in serving on the Pine Lake Prep Board because I care deeply about the school’s mission and want to help protect what makes PLP special—while also helping it grow thoughtfully and sustainably.
 

In my day-to-day work, I spend a lot of time helping leaders set direction while ensuring associates are able to adapt to change. I’m used to balancing competing perspectives, grounding conversations in shared goals, and keeping the long view—especially when decisions affect a lot of people. That mindset translates well to board service: asking good questions, keeping the school’s strategy and fiscal health front and center, and supporting strong policy governance.
 

I’d hope to contribute in three key ways:

- Helping represent the parent community and the needs of our students while balancing the mission of PLP. 
- Championing connection both inside Pine Lake and withing the greater Lake Norman communities. 
- Strengthening communication and trust by championing transparency and feedback.
 
On a personal level, I’m already invested in the life of the school. I serve on the PTO as the chair of the PTO Pride Spirit Store. Outside of Pine Lake, I serve as the Quartermaster for Cub Scout Pack 72, which keeps me close to what kids and families need to feel supported and included.
 
If selected, I’d bring a steady, thoughtful approach: prepare thoroughly, listen first, ask good questions, and support decisions that align with the mission and the school's long-term sustainability.

 

 

2. The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work.  
Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)
 

I believe my most impactful contribution to the PLP Board would be in community development — strengthening the connections that make our school feel like home for students and families.

Much of my professional experience has focused on leading change in complex environments—aligning leaders around shared priorities, communicating clearly and consistently, and making sure people understand not only what is changing, but why. That matters in board work because strategy and policy decisions only succeed when the community trusts the process and feels included in the journey.

I also bring a strong network across Lowe’s and the Lake Norman community, and I genuinely enjoy connecting people to people. Whether it’s introducing families, linking a need to a resource, or helping a great idea find the right supporters, I’ve seen how the right connection at the right time can accelerate both individual growth and the growth of a mission.

My community and volunteer involvements have reinforced that small investments—welcoming touchpoints, traditions, and simple moments of belonging—build trust and pride over time. That sense of community is what helps students feel safe and encouraged, and what keeps parents engaged in a meaningful way.

That’s the lens I’d bring to the Board: helping PLP not only plan for the future, but strengthen the community that sustains it.

 

3. Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

I’ve led teams and cross-functional work for much of my career, often in environments where there are lots of stakeholders, limited time, and big expectations. I’m comfortable helping groups get aligned, make decisions, and execute—especially when the work impacts people at scale.

Some of the key decisions I’ve been part of over the years include scaling a field support team from 3,000 to nearly 30K, creating governance and standards for change management and operational efficiency, and improving how teams communicate so people feel informed rather than surprised. In practice, that often means stepping back, asking the hard questions, and bringing people back to the purpose: what problem are we solving, for whom, and what will change if we get it right?

What I’m most proud of most is helping create clarity — because clarity reduces friction, improves trust, and supports everyone's growth. But what matters most to me is the people. Every role I've enjoyed most has been related to helping people succeed - whether that's at work with my team or at home with my 2 boys. Seeing their success fuels me to keep learning and keep pushing for what matters most.

The mix of strategic leadership, plus hands-on service and passion, is what I’d bring to PLP.

 

4.   The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)

 

Perseverance is the PRIDE value that resonates most with me, mostly because parenting has a way of turning perseverance into a daily practice. When you’re raising kids, you learn quickly that plans are… aspirational. Someone gets sick, emotions run high, schedules collide, and you still find a way forward. Over time, you build the muscle of rolling with the punches—and even learning to laugh a little in the middle of the chaos.

That mindset has helped me professionally as well. I’ve led through plenty of change at work: shifting priorities, new strategies, and the inevitable ups and downs that come up in business. What I’ve learned is that perseverance isn’t just “pushing through.” It’s staying steady, staying curious, and not letting a setback become a story you tell yourself about what’s possible.

I try to model a growth mindset: we can make mistakes, own them, learn from them, and still move forward with confidence. And even in tough seasons, I’ve found that looking for small moments of joy, like small wins, a good conversation, or a lesson learned makes endurance feel a lot more human.

That’s also why perseverance matters so much in a school community. Kids are watching how adults respond when things don’t go perfectly. I want the next generation to learn that resilience isn’t about being unshakable, it’s about being willing to try again, adjust, and keep growing.

 

 

5.   We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

 

I’m applying because I genuinely want to serve PLP and help it continue to thrive. We are so grateful to be a part of this incredible community. This is a school like no other and I would be honored to play any role in supporting it's continued success. 

This is an opportunity to protect what’s working, strengthen what needs attention, and help ensure the school remains a place where students can flourish—and where families feel proud to belong.

I’d be honored for the opportunity to contribute my time, energy, and leadership to the Pine Lake Prep board.

 

Resume

Application Responses 

 

1.  The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)
 

It has been a privilege to be a member of the Pine Lake Preparatory Board of Directors since 2023, and I am pleased to submit my application to continue to serve. My perspective is informed by a career centered at the intersection of business and education for over a decade. I find this work full of purpose and strive to create avenues for students to do the same. I hope that my in-depth knowledge of this intersection yields valuable insights that enhance the way the Board serves the school.

My most recent work experience includes time as CEO of a Charlotte-area youth development nonprofit. I have and will continue to bring fundraising, community engagement, and governance knowledge to Pine Lake Prep. I will also continue to leverage my network and make connections when these relationships could benefit the school community.

 

2.  The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)

I have been part of the planning for PLP’s current capital projects and campaign, and it would be an honor to see these projects through the upcoming year of execution. Our fundraising needs are ongoing, and I would like to continue to provide strategic and tactical expertise to the campaign. As nonprofit CEO, I was responsible for securing a $2 million annual fundraising target, working with a lean team and large volunteer base to achieve it. I hope to support Mr. Moceri, Ms. Drury, and other school and community leaders to achieve the vision we have for the future of this incredible school.

 

3.   Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

 

I have been a member of the Pine Lake Board of Directors since 2023. During my tenure, we collaborated with Mr. Moceri to design and adopt a new strategic plan what will guide the coming several years; approved multiple strong actions to support teacher/staff retention (key to a great school); and navigated some difficult challenges (familiar to all schools) related to use of AI, school safety, and evolving student needs.

In my recent work experience, I served as a member of the Charlotte Executive Leadership Council (CELC) Education Working Committee and completed the Leadership Charlotte program. Both of these experiences gave me chances to serve the broader Charlotte metro community of educators and engage with a large, diverse group of civic leaders.

 

4. The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)

 

Perserverance. Since high school, I have found joy in long-distance running, and I think of many aspects of my life through this lens. I find great joy in working through challenges with patience, persistence, and strategy - this has led me through different phases of my career, including serving as a consultant to help businesses solve problems and most recently joining an entrepreneurial family business to see where we can take it. As a lifelong learner, I expect to be terrible at something when I first try it; I am a firm believer in losing, failing and trying things that don't work on a path to success. I work hard to show this to my children and try hard to give them space and grace to do the same.

 

5.  We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

 

It would be an honor to continue to serve the school community as a member of the board.

Resume

Application Responses

 

1.  The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)

 

While I have had seasons of founding and building, vision-casting and delegating, I also find great joy putting my skills and experience to work supporting leaders and communities. I do this as a foundation director and find it extremely rewarding. We have amazing, capable executives in our real estate business, and I often feel like my biggest job is supporting them! The story of Pine Lake is compelling, a legacy of competent and passionate people who frankly know what they’re doing, which is one of the reasons we are so grateful to have our children here. The short answer is, I’m here to serve where you need me. I have quite a bit of experience in non-profit governance and capital raising, especially in understanding the mindset of a funder. Finance and administration/oversight is what I do every day, both in the non-profit and business world, and I’m happy to serve in those areas too. I’m a positive, forward-thinking, pragmatic team player, and I hope to add value to the PLP community.
 

 

2.  The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)
 

My experience in fundraising is broad-ranging: large scale capital raises for our real estate funds, non-profit and venture start-ups, church ministry budgets, and cross-cultural partnerships. Throughout the PLP building campaign and general fundraising, I’ve been struck by the strong alignment in how we think about funding. Funding is not just about dollars but community engagement and buy in to the culture and vision. Every gift matters; every community member matters. The axiom, “Where your money is, there you will find your heart” has been true many times over as I witness and partner with food-insecure widows and wealthy fund managers who are both generous in their giving to the communities and causes that mean so much to them.

The most concrete example of my own work in this is in building a entrepreneurial loan fund that fuels a African ecosystem of non-profit and business where I serve as board chair. The fund was raised cross-culturally through donors in the United States and Zambian partners united in vision. It has been a joy to report to our stakeholders that over 10,000 entrepreneurs have received loans, our micro-loan repayment rate is near or at 100%, and that the Zambian government and the World Bank have joined our cause! I don’t play golf, and my event-planning skills are subpar (though I’d love to help with the grunt work), but I would love to help represent the vision and values of PLP to our stakeholders. 

 

3.  Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

Both in my current role directing a private foundation and in my years as the pastor leading a multi-campus, large church in global and local partnerships, I’ve had numerous opportunities for civic leadership (see my resume, so I won’t re-list here!). One experience that deeply shaped me and my leadership was in a trailer park in Huntersville. During full-time graduate school, I started helping middle schoolers with homework in a widow’s trailer. Soon I led 75 (mostly immigrant) kids and dozens of volunteers meeting 3 days a week with a zero dollar budget. We got organized, built a real program, hired staff, established a college planning team and got to celebrate one of our students, and my kids’ babysitter, receiving a full-ride scholarship to Davidson College. She graduated from Davidson and now serves in her old neighborhood, leading public health. Our scrappy tutoring and mentoring programs continue today under the leadership of Caterpillar Ministries (my wife has served on the board), and more full-ride scholarships have been awarded-including another to Davidson! My wife and I also worked with local police to investigate slumlords, partnered with churches and Torrence Creek Elementary to support academic success, recruited individual givers, and wrote and won a $20k grant from the United Way. The extraordinary impact of the devoted team in this neighborhood is ongoing and incredibly special. I learned that sometimes you have to be willing to plunge the toilets and sometimes you have to be willing to make the big presentations and financial asks-if your team and leadership have the humility and confidence for both-you will be unstoppable together. 

 

4. The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)

One of the wisest pieces of counsel I’ve been given is “whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability and for the good of someone else.” I can’t think of a more powerful example of this than a passionate educator. I am forever grateful for the many educators who strove for excellence in their classrooms, engaging me in physics labs and class discussions. They inspired me to steward every opportunity well. Excellence matters in how we compensate and reward our employees. Excellence matters in how I serve our foundation partners. Excellence matters in how we teach our children to treat one another and the people around them. Excellence and service go hand in hand, and its at that intersection where I want to live. We pursue excellence not merely for our own gratification or prestige, but so we can offer much to others. During my undergraduate years at Davidson, we were constantly told to work as hard as we could, and that pursuit would prepare us for “lives of leadership and service.” 

It fills me with gratitude thinking about teachers at PLP doing the same for my children…I would love to serve excellently the school that serves my children with excellence. 
 

 

5. We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)
 

Thanks for your time and consideration! 

Resume

Application Responses

 

 

1. The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)
 

My first year on the Pine Lake Preparatory Board has given me a clear understanding of the strategic and fiduciary responsibilities required to support a growing charter school. If elected to continue serving, I hope to build on the progress we have made - particularly in long range planning, capital investment oversight, and ensuring that major initiatives remain aligned with PLP’s mission.

On the Construction Committee, I have played an active role in advancing the new 26,450 square foot Academic Building through Schematic Design, Design Development, and now into pricing, permitting, and value engineering. The renderings completed in November helped launch early fundraising efforts, and as pricing has come in above target, I have been involved in preparing a thoughtful value engineering approach that protects instructional quality and building functionality. Our goal remains to finalize this work by mid-March and maintain the June 1st groundbreaking.

I also supported the successful turf replacement project - completed on schedule and within budget - and have been involved in early planning for the track renovation and the new Fieldhouse, which will significantly enhance the athletic experience for students.

On the Fundraising Committee, I have helped shape a strategy to secure the private donations needed to responsibly fund these capital projects.

If elected, I will continue bringing technical expertise, disciplined planning, and a collaborative mindset to ensure PLP’s facilities, finances, and long-term strategy remain strong and student centered.

 

2. The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)

 

Facility and campus planning has been the area where I have contributed most significantly during my first year on the PLP Board. My background as a Licensed Professional Engineer and Director of a $3B capital expansion program at CLT Airport has allowed me to bring practical, real-world experience to PLP’s major projects.

On the Construction Committee, I have helped guide the Academic Building through multiple design phases and into pricing and permitting. The building will add 13 classrooms, 10 offices, a large meeting space, and a student run coffee shop and school store - substantial additions that will support academic growth. I also supported the review of renderings and the early fundraising efforts that followed. As pricing has trended above target, I have been involved in preparing a second round of value engineering to ensure we maintain the building’s core educational priorities while managing costs.

I have also contributed to planning for the new 7,000 square foot Fieldhouse, which will provide locker rooms, a training room, staff offices, expanded storage, and a 2,000 square foot weight room. This facility will give PLP Athletics a dedicated home and elevate the student athlete experience.

Beyond building design, I supported the successful turf replacement project and am now involved in planning for the track renovation scheduled for next year.

My experience managing more than 60 major capital projects has helped me provide insight into budgeting, scheduling, permitting, risk mitigation, and construction phasing—skills that are especially important when building on an active school campus. I am committed to ensuring PLP’s capital investments are well planned, fiscally responsible, and aligned with long term goals.

 

 

3. Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

 

My first year on the Pine Lake Preparatory Board has strengthened my commitment to thoughtful, service driven leadership. I have served on both the Construction and Fundraising Committees, contributing to several major initiatives that will shape PLP’s future.

On the Construction Committee, I have helped move the Academic Building from early design through renderings, pricing, permitting, and now value engineering. I also supported the successful turf replacement project and the planning for the track renovation and Fieldhouse. On the Fundraising Committee, I have helped develop a strategy to secure the private donations needed to support these capital projects.

Outside PLP, I remain deeply connected to UNC Charlotte. I serve as an Advisory Board Member for the Aviation Innovation and Research (AIR) Institute, where I help guide strategic direction, support research initiatives, and collaborate with industry partners. I have also served on the Engineering Leadership Academy Board, supporting leadership development for engineering students.

Professionally, I have spent nearly two decades leading multidisciplinary teams and overseeing major capital investments for the Charlotte Department of Transportation and CLT Airport. These roles require long term planning, financial oversight, and collaboration with diverse stakeholders—skills that translate directly to effective board governance.

Together, these experiences reflect my commitment to leadership, strategic thinking, and community impact—values I bring to my continued work on the PLP Board.

 

4. The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)
 

“Driven to Excellence” is the PLP core value that resonates most strongly with me. Throughout my career and board service, I have been guided by the belief that excellence is achieved through preparation, discipline, and a willingness to push beyond what is comfortable.

During my first year on the PLP Board, I applied this mindset to every committee assignment and decision. On the Construction Committee, this has meant working through multiple design phases of the Academic Building, reviewing renderings, navigating pricing challenges, and preparing for value engineering to ensure we deliver a high-quality facility within budget. I have also supported the successful turf replacement project and the planning for the track renovation and Fieldhouse.

This value has shaped my professional life as well. Leading complex capital programs at CLT Airport requires precision, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. I bring the same approach to mentoring students at UNC Charlotte and coaching youth athletes, where I strive to model consistency, effort, and pride in one’s work.

To me, being driven to excellence means holding myself to a high standard while helping elevate the people and organizations around me. It aligns perfectly with PLP’s mission and continues to guide my service on the board.

 

5.  We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

 

In addition to my board service, I remain actively involved with UNC Charlotte as an Advisory Board Member for the Aviation Innovation and Research (AIR) Institute. This role keeps me connected to emerging technologies, academic innovation, and industry partnerships - perspectives that strengthen my contributions to PLP’s long term planning.

My work on the Construction Committee has allowed me to support several major initiatives, including the Academic Building’s progression through design, renderings, pricing, permitting, and value engineering. I also supported the successful turf replacement project and the planning for the track renovation and Fieldhouse.

I am also deeply committed to youth development. Over the past seven years, I have coached in Lake Norman Little League, helping the league grow from 300 to more than 1,400 athletes per season. I currently coach travel baseball on my son’s 13U team and have coached multiple seasons of flag football and Pop Warner football. These experiences have strengthened my passion for supporting student athletes and ensuring they have the facilities and resources needed to thrive.

These combined experiences reflect my dedication to education, leadership, and community - values that guide my continued service to PLP.

Resume

Application Responses

 

 

1.  The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)
 

I understand that the Board of Directors serves as a governing body focused on strategy, policy, and long-term sustainability rather than day-to-day operations. If selected, I would approach this responsibility with professionalism, thoughtful consideration, and a commitment to the broader mission of Pine Lake Preparatory.

Throughout my professional career, I have worked in structured, compliance-driven environments where accountability, discretion, and careful review are essential. I am comfortable evaluating information, asking meaningful questions, and contributing to discussions that require objectivity and steady judgment. I recognize that effective governance requires board members to set aside personal viewpoints and focus on what best supports the school as a whole.

I am deeply committed to ensuring that every student feels supported and valued. Strong governance means considering the needs of the entire school community and making decisions that reflect fairness, respect, and opportunity for all students. I believe in thoughtful collaboration, respectful dialogue, and policies that strengthen both academic excellence and student well-being.

As a parent and community member, I care deeply about Pine Lake Preparatory’s continued growth and stability. I hope to contribute steady leadership, inclusive thinking, and a long-term perspective that serves all families and students.

 

2.  The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)

One area where I believe my experience would be most impactful is in policy governance and regulatory oversight. Throughout my professional career in healthcare and administrative operations, I have worked within highly regulated environments that require strict adherence to policy, confidentiality, compliance standards, and procedural accountability.

In my current role within a large healthcare system, as well as in prior leadership support roles, I regularly review documentation, ensure processes align with established guidelines, and collaborate across departments to maintain operational integrity. These environments require careful evaluation of information, attention to detail, and an understanding of how policies guide long-term organizational stability.

I am comfortable analyzing information objectively, asking clarifying questions, and contributing to discussions that shape sustainable processes. Governance, in my view, is about ensuring systems are clear, fair, and consistently applied. It is not about day-to-day management, but about creating strong frameworks that allow leadership and faculty to operate effectively.

Additionally, working in diverse and structured professional settings has strengthened my ability to respect confidentiality, navigate complex issues with discretion, and support decisions grounded in policy rather than personal preference.

I believe these skills would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the Board’s responsibility in maintaining strong governance, supporting academic excellence, and ensuring that Pine Lake Preparatory continues to operate with integrity and accountability.

 

3.  Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

 

While I have not previously served on a formal governing board, my professional roles have required leadership, structured decision-making, and responsibility for processes that affect entire teams. In both private practice and healthcare environments, I have contributed to strengthening operational systems, ensuring compliance, and supporting leadership through thoughtful evaluation and implementation of improvements.

Beyond my professional experience, I have been actively involved in supporting the school community. As a parent, I have volunteered in the classroom, assisted teachers with projects and activities, and contributed time and resources when needed. Whether helping with classroom initiatives, organizing materials, or supporting school events, I believe in being present and engaged in ways that support both educators and students.

Service, to me, means showing up consistently and contributing where there is need. I value collaboration and respect the important role teachers and administrators play in shaping student success. My involvement at the classroom level has given me appreciation for the day-to-day dedication of faculty while reinforcing my belief in strong governance that supports them effectively.

These experiences have strengthened my commitment to thoughtful service, accountability, and contributing in ways that benefit the broader school community.

 

4.        The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)

 

The value that resonates most strongly with me is Integrity, closely followed by Empathy. Integrity has guided both my professional and personal life. In my work within healthcare and administrative environments, I have learned that integrity means doing what is right even when it is difficult, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring fairness in decisions that impact others. It requires consistency, accountability, and the willingness to stand behind one’s actions.

Equally important to me is Empathy. As a parent and community member, I believe that every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and respected. Empathy shapes how we communicate, how we resolve conflict, and how we create environments where students can grow academically and personally. It encourages thoughtful listening and the ability to consider perspectives beyond our own.

In my own life, these values influence how I approach challenges, relationships, and leadership. Integrity keeps me grounded in principle, while empathy ensures that decisions are made with consideration for the broader community. Together, they guide me to act with fairness, respect, and a commitment to supporting all students and families.

 

5.        We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

 

Thank you for your consideration.

Resume 

Application Responses

 

1. The PLP Board of Directors is the governing body of Pine Lake Preparatory School. The Board's oversight is not operational but rather focuses on strategy, fiscal responsibility, and policy governance.

It is expected that members set aside personal views when engaging in the work, making recommendations, and voting on approvals. With that understanding, please explain how you hope to contribute to the Board of Directors at Pine Lake Preparatory.  (300 words or fewer)
 

My current (2024-2026) and previous (2016-2020) experience serving on the Board has been a richly rewarding experience and I would be honored to serve another year. My experience as an education lawyer, senior leader, and board professional for Davidson College, a nonprofit education institution, as well as my prior experience on the PLP Board, have prepared me well for this role. As a board member, I want to support the leadership team of Pine Lake as they implement the school's strategic plan and successfully complete the capital campaign, and to continue the important work of ensuring that Pine Lake is in the strongest financial position possible to help it remain a top performing school in North Carolina. 

 

2. The Board at Pine Lake Preparatory is routinely involved in strategy as it relates to policy governance, non-profit oversight/administration, financial and business management, fundraising, community development, legal and regulatory issues, academic excellence, facility/campus planning, and diversity/equity/inclusion work. 

Describe previous or current experience in ONE of the aforementioned areas that you believe will be most impactful to the Pine Lake Preparatory Board. (300 words or fewer)

While I have extensive experience in legal and regulatory issues, I would like to highlight my governance work as the area where I can have the greatest impact on the PLP Board. For nearly 17 years I have served as an assistant secretary to the Board of Trustees at Davidson College. In this role I manage the Board meetings and several of the Board committees' annual work plans and regular meetings. I ensure that matters that require discussion, deliberation, and Board education are appropriately covered in Board meetings and materials so the Board has the information it needs to make an informed vote. I understand first hand the nature of the relationship between the administration and the Board and can help put in place structures and practices that both ensure full communication and transparency as well as honor the distinct roles of the administration and the Board. 

 

3. Describe your previous or current board, professional/work or civic leadership experience.  If possible, please share examples of key decisions with broad impact you have been a part of while serving.

In line with PLP’s commitment to service, we also invite you to share community service involvement you may or may have been involved in.  (300 words or fewer)

As noted in previous answers, I have nearly 17 years of experience working as a board professional for a nonprofit education institution. I have served a total of six years on the PLP Board, including several years as the Board chair. I also currently serve as a member of the DCPC Preschool Board Committee, and am in my fifth year of service on that Board. I am a member of the Young Men's Service League, where I volunteer for local nonprofits alongside my twin sons.

 

4. The Core Values of Pine Lake Preparatory create the acronym PRIDE.

P = Perseverance. R = Respect. I = Integrity. D = Driven to Excellence. E = Empathy. 

Please share which of PLP’s five values resonate most with you.  How has it influenced your life?    (300 words or fewer)

 

In the wake of the pandemic, I think the value that resonates most with me is empathy. The pandemic was such a difficult, frustrating time for everyone. Virtually overnight, we collectively and individually lost the anchor points of our lives -- daily routines and activities, social and family gatherings, basic conveniences, and so much more. Everyone was stressed and stretched thin. And we all wanted more from each other than we were able to give. That experience made me realize the value and power of empathy. I am a better manager because I understand and empathize with all that my employees are trying to juggle and how their experiences outside of the office impact how they show up at work. I am a better friend and community member because when things don't go as I hoped or planned they would, my first reaction now is one of empathy, understanding, and grace, rather than feeling annoyed or frustrated. I am a happier person and I have stronger relationships as a result. I am grateful that PLP includes empathy as one of its five core values. I know that my children benefit from learning the importance of empathy.     

5. We appreciate you taking the time to apply for a seat on the PLP Board of Directors. If there is anything additional you would like to add, please feel free to share below. (300 words or fewer)

Thank you for your consideration of my application. I would be happy to answer any questions you have.