I’ve always believed that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. As a U.S. Army Veteran, fitness has been more than just a personal pursuit—it’s been a path to healing, growth, and building community. That’s why I’m incredibly honored to share that I’ve been awarded a scholarship from Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) to attend the University of Health & Performance (UHP) in Bentonville, Arkansas, this August, where I’ll be working towards becoming a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT).
This isn’t just a certification for me—it’s the next chapter in my mission to help others take control of their health and live purpose-driven lives. Through my business, ProActive Performance, I aim to develop fitness programs, lead community workouts, and launch social media challenges that inspire people to get moving, stay accountable, and unlock their potential.
Why UHP?
UHP’s approach goes far beyond the typical personal trainer curriculum. Their program is built on four powerful pillars:
- Think: Aligning your daily actions with your goals and values.
- Train: Building physical resilience through expert-led training.
- Feel: Developing mental and emotional fitness.
- Lead: Learning coaching skills that empower others.
Over the next three weeks, I’ll be immersed in a hands-on, transformative experience that combines strength and conditioning, mental health strategies, recovery techniques, and leadership development. This program is designed to not only build better trainers but to create leaders who can uplift their communities through fitness.
The Bigger Purpose
This opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my Eagle family at Team RWB, as well as my tribe at Merging Vets & Players (MVP). Their belief in me has fueled my drive to give back. As part of this journey, I’ll be stepping into a Volunteer Leader role with Team RWB, leading fitness events and helping Veterans and supporters stay active and connected.
I’ll also be building programs through ProActive Performance that will include:
- Social Media Challenges to build community engagement.
- One-on-One Coaching to provide tailored fitness guidance.
- Community Fitness Events to foster connection, accountability, and fun.
What to Expect in This Blog Series
This is the first of a three-part blog series documenting my journey:
- This Post — Setting the stage: Why I’m pursuing this certification and what it means for my community.
- Mid-Journey Check-In — A look inside UHP’s program: training highlights, personal insights, and how the experience is shaping my vision.
- Post-Certification Reflection — How I plan to take this knowledge and apply it through ProActive Performance and my work with Team RWB.
Join Me on This Journey
I’ll be sharing photos, videos, and personal reflections along the way—not just the polished moments, but the real, raw experiences of growth, challenge, and transformation.
If you’re interested in learning more about Team RWB, UHP, MVP, or ProActive Performance, or if you’re curious about how fitness can help you lead a stronger, healthier life, don’t hesitate to reach out. This journey isn’t just mine—it’s for anyone who’s ready to invest in their health and their community.
Here’s to service, strength, and never settling.