Graduation Year: 2002
Major: Communication Studies
Current Position: Territory General Manager – Zimmer Biomet Utah | Colorado | Wyoming | Las Vegas
City and State: Denver, Co
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
Leadership is my passion. For 21 years I have worked in the Medical Device Industry. I work for Zimmer Biomet which is a fortune 400 company. I am the General Manager of Zimmer Biomet Elevation which encompasses 4 states. Colorado, Utah, Wyoming & Nevada. I have 185 employees and generate 135 million in sales annually with my team. I have a great leadership team and with the help of my sales force we work with Orthopedic surgeons every day to provide hip and knee implants. Leadership is my passion.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
Some of my most meaningful times at Evangel were in chapel and the relationships that were built with my professors. I also met my wife, Jinjer, at Evangel. A core memory and defining highlight was winning the National Championship with my teammates in 2002. Having a special relationship with my coaches and teammates still resides today and will forever be a pinnacle for me in athletics. Also the way that the student body supported our season and celebrated the championship was very special.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Evangel was the place I found myself spiritually. I was able to study, train and play as an athlete but more importantly pursue my faith and identify my destiny. I had people around me that challenged my conventional mindset and who deeply cared about my future. The lessons I learned in chapel and with my professors were profound and shaped me into the leader I am today. I will never forget when Mrs. Nancy Pace Miller told me not to be average.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
Evangel prepared me with the core skills to be a professional. I learned how to communicate and follow through with commitments. I also learned fortitude through sports and academics simultaneously. More importantly, I learned that people matter and how we treat and see people has redeeming qualities.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Ask questions. Approaching all opportunities with a growth mindset vs fixed mindset is so important. Leaving a great institution like Evangel is the catalyst to learning. Take ownership of your own development and ask people questions. Be proud of the growing network at Evangel and share the experience you had in the interviewing process. Be bold in your quest to succeed and be steady in the disciplines of faith.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I hire the best candidates every chance that I get. Saying that, I think Evangel prepares students for life after college. It’s easy to hire Evangel alumni because the experience at Evangel brings academics and faith together. I want to work with people that are going to grow with me and if you finish school at EU you have learned those intangible skills. You’re a leader!