Who or what inspired you to enter into public service?

My father and grandfather were US Naval officers during the two World Wars and inspired me with their service. I've always felt that working at the federal level was the best way to honor and continue that tradition.

Who in your life has been an influential mentor or inspiration for you?

Charles (Chuck) Bowsher headed the General Accounting Office (now the Government Accountability Office) for 15 years. I found his wise leadership, dedication to our country, active support of GAO staff, and commitment to using forward-looking, fact- based research to be truly inspirational.

What has been your favorite Academy project thus far and why?

Because I've worked at the Academy as a project director for many years while also being a Fellow, that's hard to answer. However, two special projects have been: working with Don Kettl and panel on No Time to Wait I and II, and working with Dan Chenok, Karen Davis, and others on the CISA Cybersecurity projects. Each was a terrific challenge and broke new ground... happily with lasting results.

What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing public policy or public administration as a career?

Go for it... and spare no effort to make it happen! Start with an entry level position, if necessary, but dive into it whole-heartedly. As you learn about the opportunities, challenges, and importance of the work, you are likely to be convinced that this is the career field for you!

What area of public policy interests you the most and why?

My focus is on improving organizational effectiveness -- working with organizational leaders on specifying goals, developing and implementing strategies, and then (importantly) measuring results to demonstrate goal achievement!

What is your favorite cuisine?

Ice cream!

What is your favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?

Traveling... the optimal way to learn about the past, see how parts of this beautiful world fit together, and connect with the amazing people who live in these places.

What was your dream job as a child?

Because I lived in the Caribbean when young and fell in love with the ocean and sea shells at that time, I dreamed of becoming an oceanographer!