What are your primary job responsibilities?

I lead and manage the city's risk management department and oversee the city's internal care clinic. Its care clinic was recognized as a groundbreaking change for Texas municipal operations by offering premier on-site and free care to employees and dependents in a mission to contain costs, reduce treatment times and minimize insured losses. Additionally, City of Garland is one of the few municipalities in the state of Texas that generates and distributes its own power with an expansive power plant operation. 

Why did you choose the MS-RMI Program at FSU?

As a former litigator, I was keenly aware that my legal training left me with knowledge gaps in executing world-class risk management principles. I was looking for a respected educational institution that could provide me with a risk management degree. FSU checked all the boxes to help assist me in propelling my risk management career. 

How did your graduate education help shape your professional experiences?

It was the other way around for me. My professional experience augmented my education. I began the master’s program at FSU in my fifth year of serving as the risk manager for a large municipal operation. The education allowed me to advance my professional connections and insurance industry community experience. 

How has working in your industry changed the way you look at the world?

I am more appreciative of the potential downside to activities, as well as the upside. Notably, I mention this not from a pessimistic aspect, rather a positive view on preparation. Realizing what may go wrong is extremely helpful to figuring out how to make it go right. There is a principle in litigation that says you never ask a question to which you don’t know or anticipate the answer. 

The best litigators have mastered this art. In like manner, I believe the premier risk managers are adept at forecasting hazards so as to avoid them. 

How have you stayed connected to the FSU MS-RMI Program?

In large part by remaining in touch with former classmates. 

What advice would you give yourself in college?

I would advise myself to figure out how I want to live and that will help determine what to do. Having the benefit of hindsight, maybe a little wisdom as well, I’m amazed at how many hopeful youth focus on certain titles and occupations that fulfill more egotistical needs than actual life needs. Sadly, many students have never actively participated in or evaluated the lives of those who professionally perform some of the most sought-after occupations. Then after achieving the professional status – not to mention investing substantially – the once enamored student becomes disenchanted with what it can really mean to live the life of that professional. Bottom line: Look more at the life five to 15 years after the degrees than just getting the degrees. 

How do you handle work-life balance?

I have a little bit of the procrastination bug at times. I think most of us do, especially when something can present a drain on our energy. So, I have recognized that I should spend my energy on doing work; having fun is easy and takes almost no effort – I rarely ever procrastinate on having fun! Do not get me wrong; fun can take some planning as well, but it is usually as enjoyable as the activity itself. You get the added benefit of feeling more “free” when you are having fun because the work is done. My work-life balance is achieved by remembering that the hard work comes with a well-deserved break. 

Best piece of advice you’ve received?

I would have to say many people have provided me sage advice throughout the years. The advice that has consistently brought me the most success is to listen twice as much as you speak. Following this admonishment has enabled me to propel past my counterparts in professional achievements; be considered respectful in high-level circles; and learn more than my colleagues who couldn’t be quiet long enough to have someone teach them something new or another perspective. It has been said that we have two ears and one mouth, and we should use them in that same ratio. I advise all to try it.