WHO I AM
There’s an ancient Chinese phrase of Wàn wù xiāng lián, or “all things are connected,” that I’ve embodied as my guiding principle in both life and work. My interdisciplinary background and cross-sector experience spans Fortune 500 companies, tech startups, newsrooms, local government, and Capitol Hill, giving me a unique lens for translating complex challenges into actionable strategies. This interconnected approach is what makes me a true pracademic—someone who bridges the gap between rigorous academic research and real-world application.
I am a professor at Texas Tech University with deep expertise in government innovation, emerging technologies, public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit strategies. As an award-winning scholar and widely-published author—recipient of over 30 honors, including the prestigious Chester A. Newland best paper award by Public Administration Review—I bring a rich, diverse perspective to both my research and professional work. My latest book, Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Public Sector, exemplifies this approach, challenging conventional thinking and offering cross-sector solutions. This broad background enables me to pose unasked questions and deliver solutions that transcend traditional silos, driving impactful change across sectors.
As an entrepreneurial soul and passionate about leading, I founded the “In Motion” initiative in Management Decision journal (the first academic journal focusing on management issues), advocating for real-life impact and implementations. I serve as chair and assume other leadership roles across multiple large professional public administration and nonprofit associations. I collaborate with government leaders on critical challenges including change management, AI implementation and workforce transformation, citizen engagement initiatives, crisis and health management, emerging technology adoption such as blockchain.
Whether through my published works, public speaking, or collaborative partnerships, I help leaders and organizations innovate and drive meaningful change by connecting dots others miss in our increasingly complex world.
Ready to explore fresh perspectives and actionable strategies together? Connect with me to discuss how we can tackle your next challenge together.
