Tell us your origin story!
Scuba diving was offered as a PE course at Ball State University, so I decided to try it out....and the hook was set!  I absolutely fell in love with diving as soon as I took my first breath underwater. After the open water dives in a quarry in northern Indiana in November 1993 (in a wetsuit) I immediately took the advanced course.

What caused you to make the leap from amateur to dive professional?
Honestly, the way the shop owners treated me with warmth and respect really turned me on to the sport and sparked my interest in being an instructor. I try to bring that same respect, along with a lot of fun, to what can be an anxious time for students. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing that "aha" moment in students' eyes and smiles on their faces.

Favorite class to teach?
In my personal journey, the Rescue class is where I really gained confidence in my own skills and gave me the tools to take care of myself without even thinking. It is also my favorite to teach!

Favorite dive destination?
My favorite so far must be the Red Sea. Diving off the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula was amazing. Couple that with an overnight chicken bus ride to Cairo and experiencing the Pyramids, Khan El-Khalili bazaar, Hanging Gardens of Babylon and a myriad of other sites, and it adds up to an unforgettable experience.

What is your “must have” piece of dive equipment?
Favorite piece of equipment is my brain because it keeps me safe and still makes me curious to explore more

Favorite non-diving activity?
Making rum cake for all my dive buddies!

Favorite post-dive treat or beverage?
My favorite food and drink are whatever the locals are having wherever we are.  Life's too short not to enjoy new experiences.

Any advice you’d like to offer divers new and old?
It's simple...."JUST GO!"  Spending time with open-minded, adventurous, eager to learn people is the best part.  Learning new cultures, foods and drinks is the best. Because We Really Aren't Fish.............Just Go!!