Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher out of necessity, not because it was my original dream. I’ve always wanted to be a full-time artist, and I still hope to make that a reality one day. Teaching has given me structure, stability, and purpose while I continue pursuing my art. It allows me to stay creative, support myself, and give back to kids by sharing something I genuinely love, all while building toward the future I envision for myself.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Years after my first year at Emerson, a former student reached out while he was in college to tell me I had changed his life. He had never liked art or believed he was good at it, yet he shared that I instilled creativity, a strong work ethic, and confidence in him. He also said I modeled what a positive male role model should look like, someone who shows up, believes in students, and champions kids.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest directly into my art practice, bringing to life larger, more ambitious ideas that I haven’t had the funding to realize. With greater resources, I could take creative risks and expand the scale of my work. I would also partner with the school to give back, establishing a scholarship or creating meaningful opportunities that promote and celebrate the arts for students.