Amy and I both grew up in Kettering Schools, and the strong foundation we built there carried us through college and into our careers. Those early experiences continue to shape our values, our work ethic, and the way we approach raising our family. Sharing the same Kettering school experiences has given our family a strong sense of continuity and connection. It’s something we relate back to often and a meaningful part of our shared story.

Among the many great memories Amy and I each have from our time at Fairmont, one moment in particular has always stood out to us. It happened on Valentine’s Day 2006—exactly 20 years ago this year. Amy was a member of Fairmont’s a cappella group, 11th Hour, and as part of their annual fundraiser, she delivered a singing valentine to me during my second-period French class, performing How Sweet It Is by James Taylor. That moment has always stayed with me as the beginning of something special.

Years later, we reconnected while attending Ohio State, began dating, and eventually built an amazing family together. That same song became our first dance at our wedding and is inscribed inside my wedding ring. Looking back now, with a life and family built together, it’s incredible to realize that so much of our story traces back to a simple, memorable moment at Fairmont two decades ago.