"As an educator for over 30 years, the consequences of teens using drugs have been a startling reality over those years. In 2021, one of my former basketball players, in his mid-20's, lost his life to drug addiction. He was the third former basketball player I had coached who tragically lost his life. This was a wake-up call for me. Earlier this year, I decided to make a career change where I could become part of the solution to the rising tide of teen drug use and addiction. I realized there wasn't a better or more important way to spend my time than to help prevent young people and their families from possibly experiencing the horrible tragedies associated with drug use and addiction. All my time - 30 years-of working with young people and their parents as an educator has really prepared me for this new role with RIZE Prevention. When I am not working, I enjoy playing golf, going on vacations with my family, and attending concerts."