Experience and Interests

Teaching Experience

• Associate Professor, UW-Stevens Point (2017-present)
• English Instructor, UW-Milwaukee (2014-2016)
• English Instructor, Cardinal Stritch University (2011-2014)
• English Lecturer, Marquette University (2007-2011)
• Creative Writing Instructor, Minnesota State, Mankato (2005-2007)

Research Interests

• Strategic Storytelling
• Interpersonal Communication
• Innovation
• Entrepreneurship
• Job Search Strategy

Professional Experience

• Content Writer, Inet Web, Waukesha, WI (2016-2017)
• Co-Founder, Startup Docs, Delafield, WI (2013-2016)
• Editor-in-Chief, Lakeland University Mirror, Sheboygan, WI (2003-2004)
• Marketing Assistant, Lakeland University, Sheboygan, WI (2002-2003)

Involvement

Campus

• Co-Founder, Case in Point Business Solutions Competition (2022-present)
• Search Committee Co-Chair, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Sentry School of Business and Economics (2020-2021)

Community

• Business Writing Consultant, UWSP Continuing Education, Stevens Point, WI (2017-present)

Presentations and Publications

• Butz, N. T., Stratton, R., Trzebiatowski, M. E., Hillery, T. P. Inside the hiring process: How managers assess employability based on grit, the big five, and other factors. International Journal of Business Environment

Fun Facts

Last book you read?

The Courage To Teach by Parker Palmer

Best advice you ever received?

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

Author, then paleontologist, then automotive engineer, then NBA basketball player, then author again!

Favorite Quote?

“Do not waste time bothering whether you ‘love’ your neighbor; act as if you do, and you will presently come to love him.” CS Lewis

One thing about your school that you are most proud of?

Our students surprise me every semester with their kindness and creativity. I cherish my relationships with them, and I love when they land rewarding careers that let them solve problems in the world while doing what they love. I’m proud of how supportive my colleagues are; they empower me to pursue research that matters to me and to be passionate in the classroom.

What do you enjoy most about teaching?

Teaching is sharing. The Lord blessed me with curiosity and some knowledge. Why should I keep it to myself when it can help others?

A piece of advice for students in your school?

You’ve found your calling when you use your greatest passion to solve the problem in the world that breaks your heart the most. Not sure of your passion or the problem that breaks your heart? Let’s talk.