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Alumni Association

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ULM Alumni Association Board of Directors

What is the Board of Directors? The ULM Alumni Association Board of Directors is comprised of a 22 alumni or alumni advocates. These individuals hail from Louisiana, Texas and beyond carrying forth the mission of the Alumni Association: to change futures. Each member serves a term of 6 years and is voted into office by active members of the alumni association. 

What does the Board do?  The Board serves in both working and advisory capacity and works in conjunction with alumni staff to achieve our four major priorities: Investment in Key Stakeholders & Community Relationship management, Diversify Membership Base & Benefits, Increase visibility and provide opportunities for active engagement, Embrace Organizational Growth & Innovation to form sustainable resources.


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Joseph Beard (BS '09)
President 

Joseph (09) lives in Monroe with his Wife, Betsy (10) and they are the proud parents of Bailey, Josie, Lottie and Jack Beard. Joseph enjoys giving back to his community and enjoys giving back to ULM because of the great times he had while there as an undergraduate. His family is very involved in their church, North Monroe Baptist and enjoys traveling to any ocean to sit on the beach. He has been employed for the last six years by Chase Bank as an Account Executive. 


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Maggie Sims Generoso (BS '09, ME '13)
Vice President Administration

Hi! My name is Maggie Sims Generoso and I am a 2-time graduate of ULM- Bachelor of Science in  Elementary Education (2009) and Master of Education in Educational Leadership (2013).  I just completed year 14 as an educator for Monroe City Schools as a 2nd grade teacher at J.S. Clark Magnet School!  I currently serve as a Mentor Teacher & Math Content Leader for the state of Louisiana and as the Chairperson of Education for the Monroe Chamber of Commerce Workforce & Education Initiative.  I served 3 years as the President of the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society where I played an integral role of revitalizing the zoo after many years of neglect.  My role as President included fundraising, events, overdue updates, new attractions, and so much more!  I am serving my 2nd term on the Board of Directors for the ULM Alumni Association as the newly elected Vice President of Administration.  I am a 2021 graduate of Leadership Ouachita where I was honored with receiving the "Twice As Much" Award by my peers.  I was named a Golden Apple Teacher in 2020, Teacher of the Year in 2021, as well as a Top 20 Under 40 Young Professional by the Monroe Chamber of Commerce in 2021.  In 2022, I received the Kristen Chandler Rising Professional Award by the Women's Symposium at ULM!  My husband, Ken (ULM Class of 2010), and I have 2 boys- Max Patrick (10) and Reed Kendall (6) and are members of St. Paul's United Methodist Church.  We have a rescued Boston terrier named Lola Bunny!  As a family, we can often be found tailgating in the Grove or cheering on the Warhawks in the end-zone with the L Club.  I also enjoy traveling, reading, and thrift shopping!


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Lacy Durham (BBA '01)
Vice President Operations

Lacy is an Assistant General Counsel at Constellation Energy, one of the nation's largest producers of carbon-free energy and the leading competitive retail supplier of power and energy for homes and businesses across the United States. As a practicing in-house benefits counsel, she has primary legal responsibility and provides strategic advice for the Company’s quailed and nonqualified benefit plans and equity and compensation arrangements, and fringe benefits. Lacy also provides support for labor relations, investment management, and M&A issues related to employee benefits.  Before joining Constellation Energy, Lacy worked at Deloitte Tax LLP for 15 years advising clients on all aspects of total rewards. She also worked for the U.S. Department of Labor as a Benefits Advisor. 


During her matriculation at ULM, Lacy was very active. She received several honors including Who’s Who, President’s/Dean's List, Pi Sigma Epsilon National Founder's Award, and the Student Involvement Scholarship. Lacy was also involved with Phi Eta Sigma; Alpha Lambda Delta, Omicron Delta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, Mortar Board, the Student Government Association, Beta Alpha Psi; Institute of Internal Auditors, Student Union Board, and more.


Lacy is known as a developer of people, a coach and mentor to many, and a diversity and inclusion champion. She is a zealous advocate of
advancing women and being an ally to children, the elderly, and disadvantaged persons who otherwise have no voice. Lacy’s breakthrough leadership is exemplified through numerous civic and professional leadership roles. She serves on the Board of the Dallas Theater Center, the ChildCare Group, and the Diverse Attorney Pipeline Program (DAPP). She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Junior League of Dallas, the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), and several bar associations including the National Bar Association (NBA) and the American Bar Association (ABA). Lacy is in the line of succession to Chair the ABA Civil Rights and Social Justice Section whose mission is to protect and advance human rights, civil liberties, and social justice. She is also a past Chair of the ABA Young Lawyers Division, the largest association of its kind in the world, in which she represented the voice of 180,000 young lawyers Lacy has also been appointed to several highly coveted committees and commissions both in the legal profession and community. She is a graduate of many leadership programs and has received numerous awards and accolades including several 40 Under 40 and several young professional recognitions, the Texas Lawyer Extraordinary Minorities in Texas Law, and has been recognized by her alma maters including the Southern University Law Center Distinguished Alumni Award, and the Southern Methodist University Black Alumni Association History Makers Award, and was featured in the ULM Fall 2018 magazine, just to name a few. Lacy also has an MBA from Louisiana Tech University, a Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center, and an LLM in Taxation from Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law. She is admitted to practice law in Louisiana and Texas; she is also a certified mediator and senior-level HR professional.


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David R. Smith (BGS '82)
Vice President Finance


David is a life member of the ULM alumni association. He graduated from ULM in 1982, attended ULM on a US Army ROTC scholarship and was commissioned.  David served in the Army for 26 years.  He was featured on the cover of Life Magazine twice in March and April 1991. He is an active member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity alumni association. He also attends ULM events and football games.

David leaders the Biomedical Research Foundations Entrepreneurial Accelerator Program and Angel investment group in Shreveport, Louisiana. In this role, he sponsored the first student business competition at ULM. He also contributed to the ULM Foundation to make the foundation part of the North Louisiana Angle Investment group that allows business students to participate in investment meetings and due diligence. David also successfully supported licensed ULM School of Pharmacy technology into local North Louisiana startup companies.

He is always a supporter of ULM across Louisiana. David Is married to Jamie Cox Smith from Plain Dealing, Louisiana and have four children, His  daughter Lily became a freshman at ULM in the fall 2021 semester.


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Levi McKelphin (BS '85)
Secretary/Parliamentarian

Originally from Greenville, MS, I graduated from NLU in 1985.  While a student, I was a Sound of Today member (saxophone), where I met my future wife Emma (NLU ‘87).  I was an active member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia music fraternity.  I am a Lifetime Alumni Member, as is Emma.

We have two grown daughters, one of whom is a 2013 graduate of ULM, and two grandsons.  I live in the Greater Memphis, TN area.  

I work in the medical device industry as Vice President of Global Quality, having worked in Quality throughout my career.  My hobbies include playing piano and guitar, motorcycling, and travel.  I am a licensed amateur radio operator, 

I own property in Claiborne Parish, and plan to retire there when the time comes.  For now I enjoy visiting ULM and helping with the Alumni Association’s mission.


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Ashley Ryan Aulds (BS '14, MBA '15)
Past President


Ash (ULM B.S. '14, MBA '15) currently works at Murphy USA's corporate headquarters in El Dorado, AR as Senior Manager, Financial Planning and Analysis.    While at ULM, Ashley was an SGA Senator for all three years of undergraduate and served two years as the Department Head of Student Life and Academic Enhancement while also holding a seat on the Student Technology Access Plan (STAP) Committee. As an SGA Senator, he won the Melvin Rambin Backbone Award and ULM SGA Senator of the Year in the 2012-2013 school year.  He was also a member of CAB, Hometown Hawks, the ULM Honors Program and worked as the Manager of the ULM Baseball team. He currently resides in El Dorado, AR with his wife Sarah Book Aulds (ULM BA ’15, MA '17) and their two kids son Avery and daughter Poppy.  


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DeAndre Alexander (BGS '08)

DeAndre was a standout basketball player at ULM under former Head Coach Mike Vining. He also has an M.S. from Grambling State University in Sports Administration and plus 30. DeAndre was an educator at Arcadia High School for 12 years from 2006-2018 and successful coach with two girls in 2010 & 2016 State Championships and one boys State Championship with both girls and boys winning Championships in 2016. DeAndre has always been a leader for the youth and elderly in his community.  In 2010 he founded anon-profit organization entitled “Put Our Kids First” that met the needs of over 100 children through Biddy Basketball.  

DeAndre’s vision didn’t stop there. He ran as a Candidate for City Council in 2014 against 5 other candidates and won. DeAndre was one of the youngest elected officials in the state of Louisiana. He served one term from 2014-2018 and became a Mayoral Candidate in 2018 with 5 other candidates and came up short. In 2019, he was appointed to serve in another elected position as Bienville Parish Constable for District 1. DeAndre is now employed for the City of Arcadia as Economic Director.  In 2017, DeAndrew as nominated as one of the 30 and under Young Top Professionals in Bienville Parish by the Bienville Parish Chamber of Commerce. DeAndre is actively involved in Holland Grove Baptist Church as one of the leaders and serves on the finance committee. DeAndre is the father of two darling daughters and one precious son. 


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Keith Beard (BA '84)

Keith is a retired educator, serving 34 years as an English teacher, basketball coach, yearbook advisor, student council advisor, drama club advisor, school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. 

While at ULM, he was a member of the Sound of Today, a cheerleader, a member of BSU/BCM, Mortar Board President, PREP Staff, Alpha Psi Omega (theater fraternity), and served on the Athletic Committee.

Keith serves as a music and choir leader at a small church in Homer, as well as the set designer at the Strauss Theatre. He is also a proud grandfather of five beautiful grandchildren. ULM changed his life and helped prepare him for a rewarding career and life. Keith shares his love and devotion for ULM everywhere he goes.


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DeJaneiro Davis (BBA  '99, MAT '13, M.Ed. '18)

Mr. Davis is a native of West Monroe, La and currently holds a position in Ouachita Parish Schools as Principal of Riser Middle. He obtained his     Business degree in 1999 and was a member of the ULM football team. He lettered from 1995-1998. After spending several years in the mortgage and insurance industries he transitioned and became an educator.  Davis came back to ULM and received both Master’s of Arts in Teaching and Master’s of Education. (2013 and 2018 respectively).  The last thirteen years have allowed Davis to author two books, run two businesses focused on youth empowerment, and release a motivational album. Davis is very active in his community as a catalyst for positive change. He works hard also for the ULM L-Club and his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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Dr. Toni Lowe Fisher ('00 BBA)

Dr. Toni Lowe-Fisher is a native of Vicksburg, MS. She possesses approximately 25 years of federal service. Toni currently serves in Human Capital Management for the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory Executive Office.
In 2001, she graduated from the University of Louisiana with a Bachelor of Business Administration (Computer Information Systems) degree. She received her MBA from Mississippi College in 2003. In 2008, Toni completed a doctorate degree in Urban Higher Education at Jackson State University.

She has completed several Army leadership development programs. Toni possesses expertise in areas such as: strategic planning, program management, process improvement, grants, contracting and acquisition, and human capital and development.
Dr. Lowe is a certified coach, facilitator of Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Thomas-Kilmann’s Conflict Resolution and Management, Diversity and Inclusion. 

She is founder of STEMPossible, Inc. Toni serves on the United Way of West Central MS (Executive Board) and University of Louisiana at Monroe Alumni Association Board of Directors. She is a member of the NAACP, Blacks in Government (2nd Vice President) and Chair of the Vicksburg Civil Rights Memorial Park project. Currently serving as 2nd Vice President abd Chair of the Empowering Our Family Initiative, Toni is a faithful member of the Mu Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for over 20 years.

 


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Dakota Hawkins (BA '15)

Dakota S. Hawkins graduated cum laude from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 2015 as an Honors Program Graduate with a B.A. in Political Science and a Minor in Criminal Justice. While at ULM he was an active member of the ULM Mock Trial Team, Pi Sigma Alpha Honors Society, and the ULM College Republicans. During this time Dakota also served as an Infantry Rifleman (0311) for the United States Marine Corps Reserve, enlisting his Freshman year at ULM.

Dakota continued his education at the Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center and is now a practicing attorney at Bradley Murchison Kelly and Shea, LLC focusing in the areas of energy & natural resources, oil & gas title, commercial & business litigation, and estate planning. While in law school, Dakota was a legal extern for the Honorable Judge Brian A. Jackson, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Louisiana, a published member of the Journal of Energy Law and Resources-later serving on the same Journal Board as the Senior Articles Editor, a Dean's Scholar for 2017-2018, the President for Federalist Society for 2017-2018, and a member of the Public Interest Law Society.

A North Louisiana native, Dakota was born in Bastrop, Louisiana and continues to reside in North Louisiana.

 

 


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Renée Hebert ('98 BA, '00 M.Ed.)

Renée currently resides in Houston, TX and works for Electronic Arts (EA) as a Project Manager in Human Resources for Talent Acquisition. A two-time graduate of ULM, she earned her Masters in Counseling and Bachelors in Psychology. 

While a student ULM, Renée was actively involved on campus as a member of Alpha Omicron Pi Fraternity, ULM 31, Greek Seeker, Diamond Girls and numerous honor societies.  She has served AOII in international roles including a Network Specialist – Development and Network Specialist – Recruitment and currently volunteers on their HR Committee. Renée also spent 15 years working in higher education at our beloved ULM, the University of North Texas and Clemson. She has a huge passion for developing college students! She's also a certified resume writer and career coach.  

She is a member of the ULM Greater Houston Alumni Chapter. 

 

 

 


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Kandice Nicole Hunter ('09 BS, '13 BSN, '19 MSN-AGPCNP)

My name is Kandice Nicole Hunter, and I am a proud Monroe native. I graduated with honors from the University of Louisiana Monroe with a Bachelor of Science in Health Studies, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I have been a nurse for about ten years, and I have a passion for providing excellent patient care. I am employed with Ochsner LSU Health Monroe as a hospital medicine nurse practitioner and team lead advanced practice provider. My dedication for my profession and community have been evident through nominations, awards, and recognitions have recevied such as nomination for Advanced Practice Registered Nurse of the Year and recognition as one of the Faces of Power in Bayou Life magazine. Service to all mankind is one of my top priorities. I serve as a board member for the NELA Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation and play an active role in other various community service-based organizations. I enjoy making life-long memories with my two Yorkies, family, and friends. I am excited about serving as a board member for the ULM Alumni Association as the university holds a special place in my heart and my professional success!  

 

 

 

 


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Nicholas Lebas ('97 BS Pharmacy)

I graduated in 1997. Married to Nicole LeBas ULM '96 with three daughters: Natalie ULM '22, Kylie(currently a Senior at ULM), and Laci, future Warhawk.   I own Fuselier's Pharmacy and currently live in Ville Platte, La.

 

 


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Kim Lowery ('06 BS)

Kim Lowery is a Monroe native and a proud graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM), where she obtained a degree in social work. With over 17 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Kim has developed a strong foundation in serving the community.

Currently, Kim holds the position of Vice President of Community & Organizational Strategy at the United Way of Northeast Louisiana.  In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the Community and Organizational Strategy, working towards a common vision for the community.

Kim is passionate about pursuing this shared vision and has been actively involved in initiatives such as the ULM 2021 Investiture Take Flight Through Reading program. She also continues to contribute to the development and growth of Centennial Scholars.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Kim is married to Rickey, another ULM graduate, and they have celebrated over 33 years of marriage. They take great joy in being parents to two daughters and grandparents to four grandchildren, including a ULM Centennial Scholar.


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Justin Mailhes ('13 BBA)

Justin is an financial advisor with Argent Advisors in Monroe, LA. As a CFP® practitioner, he can walk clients through their comprehensive financial plan step by step.

Justin joined Argent in 2011 while completing his bachelor's degree from ULM. He graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) with a concentration in Finance. Justin is also an active member of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors and Young Professionals. He was a 2017 graduate of Argent Leadership Academy and a 2018 graduate of Leadership Ouachita. He was recognized in 2018 as a Northeast Louisiana Top 20 Under 40 Young Professional. He is also an active member of the ULM Alumni Board of Directors and the Salvation Army of NELA Board of Directors.

Justin and his wife Kayleigh are members of First Methodist Church of Monroe and have two children, James and Wray Marie. In his spare time, Justin enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and watching football.

 

 


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Mary Linda McCann ('91 BBA, '98 MBA)

Mary Linda is a lifelong resident of Monroe and has been in banking for 24 years.  She is currently SVP of Business Development for Bank of Oak Ridge in Monroe.  While at ULM, she was a member of Phi Mu Fraternity, Indian Scouts and the MBA Association. Mary Linda has been around ULM’s campus since she was a child, attending nursery school at what is now the ULM Child Development Center. Her father taught at the University for 30 years.

Mary Linda is currently on the Board of Monroe Rotary and First Vice Regent of Fort Miro Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution.  She plans the programming for both organizations.  Mary Linda held numerous executive positions with the Junior League of Monroe, where she has been presented with the Louise Seymour Community Impact Award, and currently serves as a trustee on JLM’s endowment board. Mary Linda is currently secretary of the board for The Center for Children & Families. She was instrumental in the founding of PAWS of Northeast Louisiana, is active in the Monroe Phi Mu Alumnae Chapter, Monroe Garden Club, NOVA Workforce Development Advisory Board, and the non-profit committee of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce.  She is a graduate of both Leadership Ouachita and CABL's Leadership Louisiana programs.  

Mary Linda is an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church. She is mother to a yellow Labrador Retriever, Mr. Darcy.


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K Shawn McCoy ('85 BA, '87 MBA)

hawn attended Northeast Louisiana University (now ULM) and earned a Bachelor’s degree in  Economics, as well as, a Masters of Business Administration. While at NLU he was a pole-vaulter on the track team, a cheerleader and was the cheerleader coach while in graduate school. He is a
member of Kappa Sigma fraternity and remains involve with the Kappa Sigma Alumni group raising money for the Kappa Sigma Alumni scholarship fund. 

Shawn began his career in the financial services industry over 35 years ago. He started his career in Carrolton, Texas working with MetLife and spent 20 years with the firm. Over the years he has held many positions in the financial services industry including Management Roles, Group Sales, 
Compliance, and Wholesaler. During that time, Shawn developed and presented public seminars on various financial and investment topics. He also has spoken to thousands of representatives and organizations about insurance and investments.


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Spencer Kirby Moore ('12 BA)

I am from Monroe, Louisiana. I went to Ouachita Christian High School and after graduating in 2009 enrolled at ULM. I attended ULM from 2009-2012 and graduated with a degree in criminal justice. While at ULM, I was involved in numerous organizations such as Kappa Sigma fraternity, Student Government Association, Campus Activities Board, PREP Staff, POP Staff, Campus Tour Guide, Hometown Hawks along with multiple scholastic honor groups. After graduation from ULM, I went on to obtain my Juris Doctorate degree from Mississippi College School of Law. I currently reside in Monroe, Louisiana where I am an attorney, a real estate broker, commercial contractor, and insurance agent. 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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Laurie Devone Payne ('03 BBA)

Laurie Payne, born and raised in West Monroe, Louisiana, is a proud graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where she obtained a degree in marketing. She comes from a family with a deep connection to the university, as she is the granddaughter of the late Coach Howard Devone Payne Sr.

In addition to her professional endeavors as a realtor, Laurie has recently embarked on a new journey as an author. She finds great joy in serving her alma mater and promoting the university that holds significant honor for her family.

Laurie is also a loving wife to Kenneth Ford and they have one son together, Kendall Beck.

 

 


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Mario Payne ('02 BBA)

Mario is a retired Veteran from Bastrop,LA. He graduated from ULM in 2008 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.). He received his Masters of Public Administration (M.P.A) from Columbia Southern University. He’s also an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., 
Mario is a proud farther of  three children; Mari, Makaila, & Terrion (who plays football at Grambling State University).  Mario is a native of Bastrop, La but currently resides in Dallas,TX . In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and watching TV. 

 

 

 

 

 


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Rogia Williams ('04 MBA)

A native of Strong Arkansas, Rogia Williams III is the son of Rogia Williams II from Quitman, Mississippi and Carolyn Williams from Strong, Arkansas.  He is the youngest of 4 children.  

Rogia Williams III graduated from Strong High School in 1996.  Rogia grew up in a military family and lived in several states throughout his career including New Jersey, Florida, Mississippi, California, Minnesota, Arkansas, Tennessee, Ohio, Virginia, and Louisiana. He credits his parents with his success by exposing him to different environments across the country and instilling the value of education growing up.

Rogia has over 20 years of comprehensive human resources experience and has worked for multiple Fortune 500 companies including Target Company and the Kellogg Company.  During his career, he has earned multiple Vice President awards for Human Resource projects and has had the opportunity to lead/support teams in multiple countries including India, Egypt, China, and the United Kingdom. 

Rogia received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 2000.  He also received his Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 2004.  He was elected to the University of Louisiana - Monroe alumni board of directors in 2022.  Rogia currently serves as the Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for E. Ritter & Company.

Rogia lives in Olive Branch, Mississippi with his wife, Gwendolyn and their two boys – Ryland, age 10 and Grayson, age 8. He enjoys golf, going to the movies, and spending time with his family.  


 

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