I first learned of Toastmasters in 2012 through a member of District 19. I was still in college and still finding my own footing. There was no way I was going to join at that time. That was true. It was not until August 2018 that I joined Hy-Vee Toastmasters after seeing my friend, Cindy Irvin, speak. Between the connections I have made and the opportunities I have had, this organization has changed me for the best.
I dove headfirst into leadership with Hy-Vee Toastmasters as our Sergeant at Arms, followed quickly by serving as Area 64 Director. Next came a year as Public Relations Manager before I chose the right moment to run for Club Growth Director. I say headfirst into leadership, but it always feels like I fall backwards into it, surprised at how quickly I love to serve our members.
We have so much strong potential in District 19, so many spaces we can fill with new faces and empowered leadership. I hope to be the candle that reflects that desire to do more with District 19 Toastmasters.
Outside of Toastmasters, I enjoy visits to the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden as an amateur botanist. When I am in better shapes, I take on 5K’s monthly and love the sports of rugby and tennis. An Iowa born guy, my goals of inclusion of all groups to Toastmasters comes from the many people I met attending the University of Northern Iowa for my degree in Accounting and Economics.