What is your history with Husch Blackwell?
I started as a summer associate in the Omaha office of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin in 2007. After an offer, graduation and passing the bar, I returned to the firm, which was now Blackwell Sanders. Following a merger a few years later it became Husch Blackwell. I practiced at the firm for almost eight years in the Energy & Natural Resources SBU, focusing on corporate, finance, banking, securities, M&A and corporate governance. I was fortunate to practice alongside great mentors and leaders in Omaha, Kansas City, Denver, Chattanooga and St. Louis during my tenure. There are many to name, but probably one of the most influential in my career path has been Dave Gardels.
Describe your current role/practice outside of Husch Blackwell.
I am currently senior counsel – corporate compliance & assistant corporate secretary for Union Pacific. I work with senior leadership, advising the corporate secretary and CLO on matters related to the board of directors (corporate governance); the treasury/finance team with respect to credit facilities, public debt offerings, and SEC/periodic reporting, among other things; and the internal compliance team on compliance matters such as internal company investigations and our company code of ethics (The How Matters).
Describe any interesting and emerging trends you’re seeing in your industry.
Right now, we are focused on new developments in risk related to corporate governance and disclosure obligations. Additionally, public companies are being asked to lead efforts related to environmental, social and governance (ESG) and diversity and inclusion. All of Union Pacific’s stakeholders – our employees, communities we serve, shareholders and customers – play a role in these efforts and have different points of emphasis.
What is one of the most interesting projects on which you’ve worked?
Union Pacific’s history includes relationships with many Native American tribes. Within the Union Pacific archives was a stuffed American bald eagle that was a gift to Union Pacific from one of them, which we wanted to return. After a little legal research and plenty of phone calls, we worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to obtain a permit to transport it back to the tribe.
What hobbies/activities do you enjoy outside the office?
I spend a good portion of my time outside the office with my wife, Betsy, and our four kids. Betsy and I follow them in volleyball, wrestling, basketball, baseball and softball. Although I used to coach at least one sport for each of them, I have almost reached the end of my coaching expertise and currently only coach two teams. I also play golf in the summer whenever I can.
View Husch Blackwell alumni resources on our Alumni Network page.