1. Can you provide us with some information about your background? Your education and career?
I’m originally from DuQuoin in Southern Illinois (former home of the Hambletonian!). I studied Electrical Engineering at Grainger College of Engineering (’86), then earned my MSEE from Johns Hopkins University (’90) in Baltimore, MD while working at Westinghouse Defense Electronics. Not long after, my wife Patti and I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where I spent my semiconductor career and eventually retired from Broadcom. We’ve now been in California for 35 years and raised our three kids there. Today I stay engaged in the industry through board service with several public technology companies.
2. Can you tell us more about how you have stayed connected to the University of Illinois since your time as a student?
Patti and I have been fortunate to spend a meaningful amount of time on campus over the past decade, even while living in California. In fact, our son is a recent graduate of the Grainger College of Engineering and now lives in Chicago. We return often for sporting events, attend alumni events in the SF Bay Area, and stay connected with the College of Engineering community.
3. Giving to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is clearly important to you. Can you explain what compelled you to give and keep giving? What do you hope your philanthropy accomplishes for the University?
The University of Illinois has been such an important part of my life that, as my full-time work wound down, becoming more involved was a natural next step. Returning to campus is always energizing—meeting students, encouraging them as they plan their first jobs and careers, and sharing lessons learned along the way. A couple students have even told me receiving the Ingram Family Scholarship inspires them to pay it forward someday. One of the most meaningful messages I share is the importance of networking with fellow Illinois alumni to explore career paths, gain perspective, and uncover opportunities.
4. What advice can you share about how to make a lasting impact at the University of Illinois?
In my experience, being present and involved is the fastest way to discover where personal interests, talents, and resources can make the biggest difference. There’s no need for a mapped-out plan—engage, react, and learn as you go. The best first step is simply showing up!
5. What is your favorite University of Illinois memory?
Living away from home for the first time as a freshman at Newman Hall was transformative and still brings back vivid memories—the camaraderie, intramural sports, fun social events, late-night BS sessions, and attending Illini games together. Newman Hall food was known as the worst on campus back then— and that also became part of the shared memories! I’m still in touch with some of those I met that very first day on campus.