Getting to know the NIH Training Center Staff
What do you do at NIHTC?
I think of myself as a “learning curator.” My role is to ensure that valuable leadership and professional development experiences are available to all members of the NIH community.
What is your proudest accomplishment here?
I am most proud of the implementation and launch of NIH’s Executive Leadership Program (ExLP). It is very rewarding to be on a project that started from a mere idea back in 2007 to now being embedded in NIH’s culture. The ExLP is the product of extensive research, benchmarking, and collaboration. Now in its 7th year, the program is the best it’s ever been, thanks to feedback from participants and NIH advisors who are committed to ensuring the program’s long-term success. I am is also very proud of NIH’s Executive Coaching Program, which I helped to establish in 2005. Coaching is now very much a part of NIH’s leadership culture and I take great pride in these two initiatives.
What do you like most about your position?
My commitment to NIH’s scientific mission drives everything I do. When technically smart people have good leadership skills, and are happy, and engaged, that translates into exceptional performance on the job - to perform cutting edge research that leads to new discoveries that ultimately will help extend and save lives. There is no greater mission than the one we serve. That alone is motivating to me each day! My professional development course portfolio (approximately 25 leadership and professional development classes that YOU can register for) promotes continuous learning and growth, which help people become their best selves. I work to ensure that everyone is supported wherever they are in their careers, from entry level employees to IC Directors.
Tell us something about yourself- a hobby, best practice, interesting fact, etc.
Travel is my passion! I have a deep appreciation for learning about people, different cultures, and most of all experiencing new cuisines. Yes, I am a foodie. Of all the places I have traveled to, Aruba (affectionately known as “One Happy Island”) is hands-down my favorite. I try to visit every year and have been going there since I was a child. Now my family also loves Aruba. I’m married to my college sweetheart and I have two children, an 18-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son. I love listening to all types of music genres (from classical and rock to hip-hop and R&B.) Attending music concerts and dancing to music is my absolute favorite form of exercise.
How can I find out more about the leadership and professional development learning opportunities offered through NIHTC?
Please click on the links for detailed information about the NIH Executive Leadership Program, Executive & Team Coaching, and Professional Development Workshops.