Stories

After graduating Fairborn Baker HS, I attended Wright State from 1982 to 1987—it was quite an awakening! I gravitated towards liberal arts/mass communications. I received my bachelor's and after traveling the world, I am an author, speaker, and coach, as well as an employee at Wright-Patt.

I began at Wright State in 1979, and finished my education degree in 1984. I met my wife, Melissa Fails. Through Army ROTC, I had a successful 26-year career. My only regret is not walking in a graduation ceremony due to Army training; I might return someday and do that!

I was active in many student organizations. They became a lab environment for me to witness in real life what I was learning in my communication classes. I manage a corporate university for Saba Software. Every day I use skills I gained and it made me a better leader.

Thanks to my Wright STEPP Scholarship, I earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering debt-free. I received invaluable mentorship from administrators like Ruby Mawasha, developed leadership skills through clubs like the National Society of Black Engineers, and gained work experience at Toyota through organizations like INROADS.

Wright State taught me about diversity. I remember being one of the only African Americans in some of my classes—that opened my eyes to a world I now know how to embrace. I learned leadership. I went from working on campus to a H.S. principal that serves 2,000 students.

Wright State allowed me to experience life on my own for the first time, and helped to shape where I am today. Student life and recreation inspired me to continue with a career within college athletics and recreation. Go Raiders!

In April of 1964, I was discharged from the U.S. Army and was trying to decide what to do with the rest of my life. A new university was opening in Dayton in the fall of 1964 and the rest is history.

I remember the first day of college, business class with Robert Wagley, good times at the Rathskeller, and meeting new friends.