Doctorate Graduation / Florida State University

I was cleaning out my carport when the phone rang. A family member called and told me to turn on the TV. The time was 8:45 A.M., CST, Sept 11, 2001. I felt so frustrated I felt frustrated because our country needed help and I was not in the position to help. I had always worked in private business and felt I was serving as a good American in the work force.

At that time I knew our country was going to war. We would eventually spend over 3 trillion dollars to fight in the Middle-East instead of taking the high road to energy independence. A portion of that money could have been spent on research and development for energy independence. Our country did not have an alternative energy plan and still does not have an alternative energy plan.

When Congress voted with an overwhelming majority to go to war it is our duty as patriotic Americans to support our country's leaders and support our troops. As a patriotic and compassionate American I want to participate significantly in helping our country and to create a better future for our people.

My high school wrestling coach said, "If you see something that needs a change, stop complaining, get involved and do something about it." The future of our country remains in the lives of our children, so I took the necessary steps to become a teacher. I did not feel that was enough. While in a teaching position I pursued my Masters degree in Corporate and Public Communication. Again, I felt this was not enough. I felt I needed to gain more knowledge and earn more respect to demonstrate that I was fully committed.

I commuted to Tallahassee for almost 4 years and earned my PhD in Mass Communication. This again, was not enough. Now am I running for Congress and I am so proud to be an American. I am no longer frustrated for not contributing to my country - because I am giving it my all - 110%.

The photograph below is on my graduation night as I received my doctorate. I feel confident that I can help our country move in the right direction.

PERSONAL

Born: October 27, 1960 in Panama City, Fla.
Baptized: St. John Catholic Church
Wife: Tawn Mulligan ( we met at college and have been together ever since)
Children: Olivia 13 and Lillian 11
Residence: Panama City, Fla. - 6th generation Floridian

EDUCATION

Bay High School:

Diploma - 1979
President of the Beta Club
Captain of the Wrestling Team (2 years)
State Wrestling Champion (freestyle - 143 lbs)
Perfect Attendance (for all high school years)

Gulf Coast Community College:

A.A. Degree – General Studies – 1989

Florida State University:

B.S. Degree – Professional Communication –1990
Recipient of the Florida License to Learn Scholarship
Student Government Achievement Award for creating the Torch Run
Dean’s List - 2 semesters

Florida State University:

M.S. Degree – Corporate and Public Communication – 2004

Florida State University:

Doctorate Degree – Mass Communication – 2008
Dean’s List – 3 semesters
Graduate GPA – 3.7


CAREER EXPERIENCE


Construction and Real-Estate Development
Small Business Owner
Sales and Marketing
Educator

SKILLS

Research Methods and Design
System Analysis
Statistical Analysis
Conflict Resolution
Information Policy
Media Development

MEMBERSHIPS

Republican Party
Republican Liberty Caucus of Florida
FSU Alumni Association
American Hydrogen Association
National Rifle Association
Project Management Institute
Panama City Centennial Committee

BASIC PHILOSOPHY

Peace and cooperation should be universally shared values.