Mike has called Oregon home since 1985 and prefers the pronouns he, his, him. He is a professional certified International Society of Arboriculture Arborist and also a licensed Oregon Landscape Professional. He serves on the City of Ashland Tree Commission, the Post Growth Institute Board of Directors, Oregon Community Trees Board of Directors, the Southern Oregon University Tree Advisory Council, Roca Creek Arboretum Planning Committee, and the Bee Campus USA Committee. Mike has an Associate's of Science Degree in Business from Rogue Community College and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Innovation and Leadership from Southern Oregon University. Mike has worked in the horticulture industry since 2001 and is the Landscape Superintendent for SOU where he has worked since 2007. Mike has received numerous awards and certificates for his leadership including the SOU Swampy Award, the Lavender Outstanding Professional Staff Member Award, ALLY, Pollinator Hero, Raider Recreation Professional Service Award, Supervisor's Toolkit, Centerpoint Leadership Development, and the Raider Athletics Appreciation Award to name a few. Mike is passionate about social justice, social equality, innovation, and leadership. He is an avid environmentalist, outdoor enthusiast, and loves backpacking with his wife Erin and their dog Indy.