I graduated from the University of Central Missouri in 2011 and I’ve always cherished the memories from my time on campus. Thirteen years later, my appreciation for UCM continues to grow. I’m honored to be serving my fifth consecutive year on the Alumni Foundation Board of
Directors, where I can give back my time, talent and treasures to the community and university that shaped me. Staying connected and involved with the university after graduation has taught me the power of the alumni community, which is over 100,000 strong, worldwide.

The most impactful way I can demonstrate that is by sharing three gifts UCM and the alumni network have given me personally and why I remain committed to giving back. First, my wife! We met our sophomore year at UCM in 2008. Fast forward to June 2024, and our first child was born. What a gift! I am forever grateful for my family and that never would have happened without UCM. Joining the Alumni Foundation and proudly serving today is the least I can do to reciprocate.

Second, my business, Falcon Wealth Advisors. I was contacted by an alumnus I had never met in 2010 during my junior year on campus. His friend at a large global investment firm was seeking an intern and I landed the gig that year working for his friend, Jake. Today, Jake and I are business partners and we co-founded Falcon Wealth Advisors in 2016. Now, we have 17 employees (and growing) and over $800 million in assets under management for more than 800 families (and growing) in 35 states and Australia. That never would have happened without UCM. The university paved the way for my career and that’s why my wife, Cassie, and I made a planned gift to the Central Annual Fund in 2021. This gift will ultimately be invested in UCM and benefit students who will join the same alumni
community decades from now.

Third, my people—my team and clients. I work with many amazing clients who are UCM alumni and we share the same bond and connection. The alumni community continues to provide and none of this happens without UCM. That’s why I’ve stepped into an officer role on the Alumni Foundation Board and remain committed to giving back for years to come. Wherever you are after your time at UCM, stay connected. There’s no better way to do that than through the Alumni Foundation. Join your regional MuleNation chapter, volunteer your time, attend events, update your contact info, stay connected on social media and donate to your favorite program or the Central Annual Fund. The opportunities to stay engaged are endless. You’re an important part of the UCM story and it doesn’t end at graduation!