I grew up in a small town in Western North Carolina.  There was plenty to do outside as a child, but I often chose to toil away inside dumping my full-height rubbermaid tub of wooden blocks on the floor in an effort to build a masterpiece using every single piece.  That passion ultimately manifested in a proclamation on a family trip to Atlanta in 5th grade after becoming mesmerized by the towering heights and heavenly atriums created by John Portman: I was going to be an architect when I grew up!  Travel has remained a past time of mine as an adult; I love to visit and explore new cities with my wife ( a graphic designer) who never thinks twice about indulging my desire to find the perfect bar to catch the sunset, have a cocktail, and sketch.  I love Durham and the big small town it has become.  I am passionate about giving back to it through volunteering my time and design expertise with several non-profit organizations.  In addition to being an active participant in shaping the built environment of my community, I am also committed to being an active listener and learner surrounding issues of race, equity, and inclusion.