I was born into a Roman Catholic family, the fourth of five children, and raised primarily in Morristown, NJ. During my high school years, our family moved to Paoli, PA, where I began working at Jimmy Duffy’s & Sons, a prestigious catering company. Little did I know at the time that this job would introduce me to the love of my life.

In September of 1974, while working at Jimmy Duffy’s, I met a young woman named Wendy. She always had a smile for me, brightening my days with her warmth and kindness. After 14 months of friendly exchanges, countless smiles, and one unforgettable hug in Refrigerator Box #4—when a well-timed prank left us momentarily in the dark—I finally summoned the courage to ask her out. That moment led to a love story that has lasted a lifetime.

On September 2, 1978, Wendy and I were married, beginning our journey together as husband and wife. In 1982, we welcomed our first son, Michael Jacob. After facing several difficult pregnancies, we were blessed again in 1986 with the birth of our second son, Warren Christopher.

Today, our sons have built a thriving business together, Ethos Therapy Solutions, a highly successful medical supply company serving patients and healthcare providers along the East Coast, from New Jersey to Florida, and as far west as Michigan to Texas. We take great pride in their achievements and the compassionate work they do.

As we look ahead, November 13, 2025, marks a significant milestone—50 years since our very first date. It is a testament to the enduring love, faith, and partnership that Wendy and I have shared over the decades. Through life’s joys and challenges, our family has remained rooted in love, gratitude, and God’s blessings.

Career:

After graduating from high school in 1974, I began my career in the hospitality industry, working for the prestigious catering company Jimmy Duffy's & Sons, located in Paoli, PA, on the Main Line outside of Philadelphia. During my time there, I had the privilege of serving future President Ronald Reagan during his campaign for the presidency in 1976.

In 1977, I transitioned to a role in the mailroom at UGI Corporation, marking the beginning of my corporate career. While working full-time, I pursued higher education at the University of Pennsylvania, attending evening classes. Balancing work and academics, I graduated Cum Laude in 1983 with a degree in accounting.

Upon graduation, I began my professional accounting career at Main Hurdman, a public accounting firm. In 1985, I moved to Arthur Young & Company as a Senior Accountant, working with major clients such as Unisys Corporation. That same year, I successfully passed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination and obtained my CPA license.

In 1987, I transitioned into internal auditing, joining Bell Atlantic as a Senior Auditor. My career at Bell Atlantic—later known as Verizon following its merger with NYNEX—spanned over three decades, during which I held various leadership roles, including:

Field Finance Manager

Field Operations Manager

Accounting Manager

Audit Manager

External Reporting Manager

Throughout my tenure, I was responsible for overseeing financial operations, regulatory reporting, and audit functions, contributing to the company’s financial integrity and strategic growth.

After a fulfilling and dynamic career, I retired at the end of 2018, closing a professional chapter marked by dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence in finance and accounting.

This section describes your natural gifting and talents.

What are your natural skills/talents?

1. Leadership & Management

Held multiple managerial positions at Verizon (formerly Bell Atlantic), overseeing finance, field operations, accounting, audit, and external reporting.

Led teams in complex financial and operational functions, demonstrating strong decision-making and strategic thinking.

2. Financial Acumen & Analytical Thinking

Earned CPA certification and worked as an accountant and auditor in public and corporate finance.

Managed external reporting and compliance, showing a deep understanding of financial regulations, risk assessment, and data analysis.

3. Adaptability & Continuous Learning

Started in an entry-level role and advanced to senior management, displaying resilience and a strong work ethic.

Pursued a degree at the University of Pennsylvania while working full-time, highlighting determination and time management skills.

4. Strong Work Ethic & Dedication

Balanced multiple jobs early in his career, including working for Jimmy Duffy’s on weekends while studying and working at UGI.

Spent over 30 years at Verizon, showing loyalty, perseverance, and commitment to professional growth.

5. Communication & Relationship Building

Worked with high-profile clients like Unisys Corporation and served in various auditing and managerial roles, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate financial insights effectively.

Built long-term professional relationships and successfully navigated corporate environments.

6. Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking

Managed external audits and financial operations, which required problem-solving under pressure and attention to detail.

Ensured compliance and accuracy in financial reporting, demonstrating high-level analytical skills.

Are you most comfortable behind the scenes or out in front?

Throughout my career, I have found value in both leading from the front and working behind the scenes, depending on what the situation calls for.

When it comes to leadership and accountability, I have never shied away from stepping forward—whether managing financial operations, leading audit teams, or guiding strategic decision-making in my roles at Verizon. I am comfortable taking responsibility, setting direction, and ensuring things run smoothly.

At the same time, I recognize the importance of working diligently behind the scenes, ensuring that processes are efficient, financial reports are accurate, and teams have the support they need to succeed. I have spent much of my career making sure that the details—often unseen by others—are handled with integrity and excellence.

In my service to the church, I bring this same balance. I am willing to lead when called upon, but I also appreciate the quiet, unseen work that supports the ministry and helps others thrive. Whether in a leadership role or working humbly in the background, my goal is always to serve faithfully, ensuring that God’s work is carried out with dedication and purpose.

In what ways has spiritual growth been evident in your life in the past 6 months?

Over the past six months, my spiritual growth has been deepened through my commitment to preparing a weekly Sermon Study Guide for our church’s Community Groups. This process has been more than just an exercise in writing—it has been an opportunity for me to dive deeper into God’s Word, reflect on His teachings, and apply them more fully to my own life.

Each week, as I study Scripture in preparation for the guide, I find myself gaining a more comprehensive and enriched understanding of biblical truths. The discipline of breaking down passages, framing discussion questions, and considering the practical applications of God’s Word has strengthened both my faith and my ability to communicate His message.

Additionally, this process has reminded me of the importance of discipleship and community. Knowing that these study guides serve as a resource for others has encouraged me to be more thoughtful and prayerful in my approach, seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance to ensure that the material is both theologically sound and spiritually impactful.

Beyond my study time, I’ve noticed that my daily walk with God has been strengthened. I find myself more intentional in prayer, reflection, and engaging in spiritual conversations, as my time in the Word naturally overflows into other areas of my life.

This season of preparation has not only been a way to serve the church but also a powerful means by which God has challenged and grown me spiritually, deepening my reliance on Him and my passion for His truth.

How do you see your natural skills/talents being used by God for the building up of the body of Christ?

I believe that the skills and talents I have developed over the course of my career—leadership, organization, financial stewardship, problem-solving, and communication—are not just professional abilities, but gifts that God has entrusted to me for His purposes.

One way I see these skills being used for the body of Christ is through teaching and discipleship. Over the past six months, I have been preparing a weekly Sermon Study Guide for Community Groups, which allows me to dig deeper into the Word, structure meaningful discussions, and help others grow in their faith. My ability to analyze, organize, and clearly communicate complex topics has helped me craft study materials that guide people in their spiritual journey.

Additionally, my background in finance and administration enables me to serve the church by offering wisdom in stewardship, planning, and accountability—ensuring that resources are used effectively for the growth and mission of the church. Just as I once worked in corporate finance to ensure stability and growth, I now see how God can use these same skills to help support and strengthen His Church.

Leadership and mentoring have also been a natural part of my career, and I believe God has called me to use these abilities to encourage, guide, and support others in their walk with Christ. Whether through one-on-one discipleship, facilitating small group discussions, or simply being available to listen and offer wisdom, I see my role as a servant leader—using my gifts to build up the body of Christ, equip others, and bring glory to God.

Ultimately, I trust that God is continuing to shape and refine me, using my experiences not just for my own personal growth, but for the edification of His people. Wherever He calls me to serve, I want to be faithful, using the gifts He has given me to strengthen His Church and share His truth.

This section will help identify how well you will fit in with the culture of Cornerstone.

How do you believe you will fit in well with our Board?

I bring a blend of leadership, financial stewardship, and a heart for service that aligns with the Board’s mission. My experience in finance, audit, and strategic planning equips me to contribute to wise decision-making and organizational accountability. Above all, I seek to serve with humility, wisdom, and faithfulness, supporting the Board in stewarding the church’s vision for God’s glory.

Why do you want to join the Board?

For over a year, I have been praying for the Lord to use my talents for His kingdom. I believe, without question, that this invitation is an answer to that prayer.

God has given me leadership, financial, and administrative skills, and I see this role as an opportunity to serve the church faithfully, support its mission, and help steward its resources wisely. I am eager to contribute my experience, discernment, and dedication to strengthen the body of Christ, ensuring that we continue to grow in faith and impact for God’s glory.

How do you see yourself best serving at your campus?

With my background in finance and administration, I can contribute by ensuring financial stewardship, strategic planning, and organizational accountability to support the church’s mission. My experience in auditing, budgeting, and operations management allows me to help maintain transparency and efficiency in how the church manages its resources.

Beyond finance, I am committed to serving in any capacity that strengthens the body of Christ. Whether through teaching, leadership, or behind-the-scenes support, I am eager to serve wherever I can be most helpful in building up the church and furthering God’s kingdom.

This section identifies your bandwidth and how much you are able to take on.

Do you work well with large groups, small groups? Older people, younger? Do you have particular passions for areas in our church (I.e.-Elderly, poor, etc)

I am comfortable working with both large and small groups, likewise, I can engage with people of all ages and backgrounds, adapting to different needs and dynamics. While my passion is not limited to a specific group, I would prefer, at least initially, to serve in a small group setting to gain a deeper understanding of the church’s needs and culture. Additionally, I have a heart for serving the poor and look forward to opportunities to help those in need through the church’s outreach efforts.

How important is Cornerstone in the midst of all that is going on in your life?

Right now, Cornerstone is the most important thing in my life. In the midst of everything else, my faith and my commitment to the church take priority. I see my involvement at Cornerstone as a calling to devote my time, talents, and heart in service to God and His church.

Where have you served in our church previously?

I previously served as an Elder at Holmes Presbyterian Church, Holmes, PA from 1987 to 1993, where I was also the Head of the Audit Committee. In these roles, I was involved in spiritual leadership, financial oversight, and church governance, ensuring accountability and stewardship in the church’s operations.

I look forward to bringing this experience to my service at Cornerstone, contributing wherever I can to support the church’s mission and growth.

This section is a combination of confirmation on behalf of the current elders/deacons and your spiritual gifts as outlined in the spiritual gifts assessment.

You are being nominated for Elder or Deacon?

• Elder

What are your spiritual Gift(s)

• Administration, Service, Encouragement, Leadership, Teaching.

What areas of church life or ministry are you most passionate about?

• I am currently most passionate about preparing the Weekly Sermon Study Guides, faithful tithing, helping those in need, and supporting the church’s administration and accounting functions to ensure financial stewardship and organizational integrity.