Pondering the future...

In all my time here at OCC, there has been an increasing expectation or recommendation that I ultimately move into an administrative position. From others' perspectives I have the necessary skills to do so, and from some, I excel at the most important skills necessary to a good administrator. From my own perspective, I could see how I might be able to more effectively contribute to the overall mission of OCC from an administrative position, as opposed to a faculty position. I always knew that tenure was a necessary step to acheive before considering any administrative position (just for job security.) But within the past 2 months the issue has been strongly present in my mind. I knew I needed to do something to "resolve" my uneasiness. So I talked to a friend. The friend reinforced the idea that I have all the necessary skills for administration, but I still lack the knowledge and experience that would allow my skills to be effectively deployed. After that discussion, I was at total peace with myself. My decision was made and I was happy with it - I am an awesome professor! I love what I do, and I make a day-to-day difference in the lives of my students, co-workers, and the greater Ocean County community.

Today I saw this interview with Gov. Christie. His response about being the Governor of NJ and the idea of running for president really reflects my feelings about being a professor and the idea of becoming an administrator (especially the time with family aspect!)



At peace with the present,
Brad

A Joyous Milestone...

Yes, this is my 100th post on this blog. I have been posting off and on (mostly off) for nearly three years now. Since I first started I have experienced too many things to relate in a single post. However, here are some of the highlights:

Moved to NJ to begin my career teaching Political Science.
Served as both seminary teaching and choir director for my ward.
Bought my first home.
Participated in the birth of my first daughter.
Baptized my oldest son.

As I said, there have been others, but those are the ones that really rise to the top.

My major goals for the next three years include:

Gain tenure at OCC.
Baptize my second son.
Ordain my oldest son as a deacon.
Take my wife on a cruise.

Again, not an exhaustive list, but it hits some of the more important items.

My final statement in this 100th post is an enormous "THANK YOU" and "I LOVE YOU" to my wonderful wife. She has made the last three years (and all 10+ years of our marriage) wonderful.

Looking forward to many more years of joy,
Brad