Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: 13 years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: Working with so many talented individuals and the mission orientation of our work. It is quite fulfilling to know that if we do a great job at the Rice Management Co., many others will benefit.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: People are really friendly, and the food is A-plus. Not everyone uses the word “y’all,” but I do.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: Anything outside and away from my computer such as fishing, golf and hiking.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Lovett Hall for its absolutely amazing architecture.
Q: What is the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: September. There’s lots of buzz around campus, and fall in Houston is great.
Q: What is the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: As a Rice undergrad, Lovett ’97, coming back to work at Rice is a privilege and honor.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: We at the Rice Management Co. (Endowment) are most proud of this one: Outperforming our benchmark over the last 10 years has created $1.05 billion of additional endowment value and $396 million in additional spending for the university.
Q: What is your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: Queso and/or Reese’s. That’s a really great combo.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Be yourself. Don’t be afraid to fail as you can only succeed if you try.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: Wouldn’t that be fun? I would love to meet as many folks as possible and see smiling happy faces.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: Rice is an amazing place today and will only be better in all aspects 25 years from now.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Innovation and excellence.