What do you tell a graduating class?

I pondered this after being given one of my greatest honors: to provide the Alumni Address at Oakland Universty’s 2012 Spring Commencement.  I’m very comfortable speaking in public; it’s something I do regularly, whether at work or as a volunteer.  This was different.

Hours and hours of reading over other speeches provided little but what not to say, because after all, it had already been said.  This couldn’t have been more true if Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Mary Schmich had not …

I’ve always been involved in the community, but after graduating from Oakland University I began feeling like there was more that I could do.  I was motivated and passionate about making a difference but couldn’t quite seem to find an outlet for all that enthusiasm.  It often felt there were only two ways to help: volunteer at a specific time that didn’t fit my schedule or buy an expensive ticket to a black-tie event that I couldn’t afford.

Over dinner I shared this disconnect with some …

Southeastern Michigan and, more specifically Oakland County, are in the midst of an economic metamorphosis.  According to a recent article, 40 percent of Americans will be freelancers, contractors and temp workers.  This doesn’t even scratch the number of small business owners and those trying to start one.

You can find these thought-leaders littered in coffee shops, basements and libraries, however can be found in great numbers at events like TEDxDetroit, Ignite and other think-outside-the-box platforms.  But because we’re scattered amongst the suburbs, independent workers and remote …

During the holidays I try to do a majority of my shopping downtown.  I especially like giving unique gifts that I feel represent Rochester to family and friends not from the area.  Perhaps a bottle of wine, some expertly roasted coffee or one of any number of staples that I enjoy on a regular basis.  While walking back to my car, the Mainstreet looked exceptionally beautiful and I took a moment to simply enjoy what a wonderful community I call home!